Xie Suyuan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Director of the National Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry on Solid Surfaces, and Professor at Xiamen University’s School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, visited TU alongside Prof. Wu Tinghua from Zhejiang Normal University’s Institute of Physical Chemistry on November 19 to carry out academic exchanges and discussions. Vice President Li Jianjun, along with representatives from the Science and Technology Department and the Discipline Construction Department, and faculty and students from School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering attended the session. The session was chaired by Jin Yanxian, Director of the Science and Technology Department.

Academician Xie Suyuan delivered a report titled “Pioneering Research in Carbon Clusters,” discussing the development and construction of the world’s first all-carbon molecular/atomic cluster device. He highlighted breakthroughs in graphite interlayer cleavage and electrode interface construction methods, as well as recent advances in regulating fullerene’s electrical transport properties. He explored the applications of carbon clusters in catalysis and photoelectric conversion and shared the experiences and lessons learned during the research process. Attendees actively engaged with the expert on research topics and experimental equipment. Xie encouraged researchers to remain confident and committed, pursue frontier research, and explore the unknown.

Exchanges and discussions

Following the report, discussions were held on the School of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Engineering’s achievements in chemical discipline development, its current shortcomings, and corresponding strategies. Experts provided insights on enhancing organized scientific research and advancing disciplinary development.

Academician Xie praised TU’s efforts in scientific research and discipline development, emphasizing that high-level scientific research is a cornerstone for enhancing academic status and influence. He advised leveraging industrial advantages, strengthening collaboration with enterprises and high-level platforms, and fostering significant achievements. Professor Wu Tinghua shared experiences in discipline development and talent cultivation from his institution, providing additional perspectives.

Vice President Li Jianjun expressed gratitude to the experts, stressing the importance of merging industry and education, integrating foundational and applied disciplines, and synchronizing teaching and research for the university’s advancement. The discussions injected fresh momentum into the university’s research and disciplinary development.

Academician and participating faculty