First International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS) held in Beijing

From July 16 to 28, 2023, the first International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS) was held in Beijing. A collaborative effort by the Beijing Municipal Government, the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), and the International Consortium of Chinese Mathematicians (ICCM), the congress was organized under the theme “Advancing Science for Humanity.” It brought over 300 scientists from more than 40 countries and regions together including 80 of the world’s leading scientists holding accolades such as the Nobel Prize, the Fields Medal, the ACM A. M. Turing Award, the Wolf Prize, the Shaw Prize, and the Breakthrough Prize. Many participants were members of various science academies and representatives from prominent international academic organizations.

The congress was dedicated to three main branches of basic science: mathematics, theoretical physics, and theoretical computer and information sciences.

Alongside high-level academic presentations, the event featured several themed activities such as the “Exhibition of Contemporary Mathematics in China,” “Evening of Theoretical Physics,” “Evening of Mathematics,” “Evening of Computer Science,” “Fundamental Science Panel Discussions,” “Scientists Face-to-Face,” and “College Student Poster Exhibition.” These activities attracted more than 400 young researchers and students, offering valuable opportunities to engage in dialogue with renowned scientists and scholars from across the world.

With an emphasis on openness, trust, and collaboration, the inaugural ICBS successfully established a new platform for academic exchange and promoted openness and collaboration within the realm of basic science in China.

The design of the ICBS logo was inspired by the term “Xuanji Yuheng,” found in the ancient Chinese book known as “Shangshu Shundian.” Since the Han Dynasty, this concept has been associated with two distinct yet related themes. First, it has been linked to the Big Dipper, a constellation in the night sky composed of seven bright stars. Second, it relates to an astronomical tool used to study celestial events and phenomena.

These two interpretations of “Xuanji Yuheng,” whether focused on the bright stars of the Big Dipper or the intricacies of the celestial observation tool, together symbolize humanity’s unending curiosity and desire to unlock the mysteries of the universe.

On July 22, 2023, Tsinghua University hosted a special ICBS forum titled “Scientists Face- to-Face” for young students. The event brought about 200 teachers and students together with 9 world-renowned experts in mathematics and physics. The purpose was to foster significant dialogue between young minds and prominent scientific leaders.

The event began with a speech by Shing-Tung Yau, ICBS President and a Fields Medal laureate. He articulated the conviction that open conversation and mutual interaction would foster an appreciation for the beauty and truth found in science. His words resonated with students, strengthening their resolve to explore basic science and chase scientific dreams.

Seven students presented Wang Haolin from the High School Affiliated to the Renmin University of China spoke about assessing intermolecular forces through quantum mechanics, which could lead to the development of more effective antiviral drugs. Yang Nuofan, from the same school, started a discussion on theoretical mathematics as a bedrock of science, intertwining it with the potential of AI technology and the future of theoretical mathematics. Han Shaolun from Beijing No. 4 High School examined the evolution of calculus and normal distribution and discussed trending topics in mathematics with experts.

Throughout the forum, students enjoyed meaningful interactions with renowned scientists and solicited their advice. The collaboration not only united the students with the scientific community but also enriched their comprehension of the importance of scientific research. It fostered thrills for scientific investigation, fueling enthusiasm for basic disciplines.

Organized as part of a series of events for young people, the forum was co-hosted by the Children and Youth Science Center of CAST (CYSCC), the Yau Mathematical Sciences Center (YMSC) of Tsinghua University, and the Beijing Association for Science and Technology. The aim was to provide a platform for young people to engage with scientists, experience the captivat ing world of scientific research, and gain confidence and motivation for future endeavors.

Here are main topics of CAST Newsletter No. 22 as follows:

Headlines

First International Congress of Basic Science kicks off in Beijing

Significance of ICBS Logo

“Scientists Face-to-Face” Forum: A fusion of young minds and leading scientists

Fundamental Science Panel Discussions explore the future of mathematics and physics

Global scientists share stories of seeking truth and beauty in basic science

Cover Story

First International Congress of Basic Science kicks off in Beijing

Significance of ICBS Logo

Events in Focus

“Scientists Face-to-Face” Forum: A fusion of young minds and leading scientists

Student researchers present findings at “Scientists Face-to-Face” Forum

Fundamental Science Panel Discussions explore the future of mathematics and physics

Anticipating mathematical challenges coming in the next two decades

The next major physics advances

Basic Science and Artificial Intelligence Forum

Roundtable panelists explore problems and challenges of large AI models and artificial general intelligence

Roundtable panelists address audience questions on challenges facing AI development

Voice of Scientists

Global top scientists expound on the profound importance of basic science

Global scientists share stories of seeking truth and beauty in basic science

First International Congress of Basic Science inspires a new vision for scientific advancement

Upcoming Conferences

The 14th Asian Congress of Nutrition (ACN 2023)

The Carbon Peak and Carbon Neutrality International Forum (CPCNIF 2023)

For detailed information, please click here to download CAST Newsletter No. 28.pdf.

Tag: CAST Newsletter