A dialogue on the career development of young scientists was held in Beijing to mark the ninth National Science and Technology Workers' Day. The event, themed “Engaging Young Scientists in Science Policy,” was co-hosted by the World Association of Young Scientists, the China Center for International Science and Technology Exchange, the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and Tsinghua University's Schwarzman College.

The discussion, chaired by Zhu Yongguan, an academician of CAS and vice president of the International Science Council (ISC), brought together leading experts and young scientists from China and abroad to explore ways for the younger generation to contribute to science policy.

Sir Peter Gluckman, president of the ISC, delivered a keynote speech, emphasizing that scientific progress is often driven by technological innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. He called for breaking down disciplinary barriers, addressing real-world challenges, and fostering institutional innovation.

Xue Lan, dean of Schwarzman College at Tsinghua University, highlighted the urgent need for cross-disciplinary and transnational policy research to tackle global issues such as climate change, public health, and artificial intelligence (AI). He urged enhanced international cooperation in science and technology, overcoming obstacles like geopolitical tensions.

Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on AI governance, career planning for young scientists, and interdisciplinary collaboration, expressing a shared commitment to integrating youth perspectives into future science and policy initiatives.

Source: World Association of Young Scientists, VOC