Apply Now | 2024 ZJU SDG Global Summer School (deadline extended to March 31)

Click to visit the official website of 2024 Zhejiang University SDG Global Summer School(The application deadline has extended to March 31.)

The 3rd Process Systems Engineering (PSE) State of the Art Workshop Held Successfully

From April 7th to 10th, 2024, the 3rd Process Systems Engineering (PSE) State of the Art Workshop was successfully held at the Jinxi Hotel in Hangzhou. Hosted by Zhejiang University, the workshop received the support from the College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, State Key Laboratory of Industrial Control Technology, International Joint Research Center of Quality-targeted Process Optimization and Control, and Zhejiang Association of Automation. The workshop focused on 7 topics which are Opportunities and Challenges in Process Systems Engineering Planning, Scheduling and Supply Chain  Batch Process Control  Sustainable Development  Process Modeling and Optimization  and Special Industrial Topics and invited 24 international experts and scholars from top universities across Asia, Europe and America, as well as five experts from industries to give speeches. Professor Chen Xi, Director of Institute of Industrial Intelligence and Systems Engineering, Zhejiang University, and Professor Rafiqul Gani, former President of the European Federation of Chemical Engineering, served as the chairs of the organizing committee. Professor Shao Zhijiang, Director of the International Joint Research Center of Quality-targeted Process Optimization and Control, served as the chair of the executive committee. Nearly 100 scholars and students attended the workshop.During the opening ceremony on the morning of April 8th, Professor Rafiqul Gani and Professor Chen Xi, on behalf of the organizing committee, reviewed the history of the workshop and outlined the prospects for this year. Professor Shao Zhijiang, on behalf of the organizer, delivered a welcoming speech, introducing the College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University and the International Joint Research Center, and warmly welcoming the guests. Subsequently, Professor Gonzalo Guillén-Gosálbez from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, Professor David E. Bernal Neira from Purdue University, Professor Antonios Armaou from Pennsylvania State University, Professor Dominic C.Y. Foo from the University of Nottingham Malaysia, and Professor Zhao Jinsong from Tsinghua University elaborated on the frontier advancements and future trends in process systems engineering from different perspectives. The reports covered research prospects and challenges in areas such as safety feasibility, quantum computing, environmentally friendly photo-polymerization processes, carbon capture processes, and intelligent dynamic risk warning systems.On the afternoon of April 8th, Professor Metin Turkay from Koch University in Turkey, Professor Mariano Martin from the University of Salamanca in Spain, and Professor Kosan Roh from Chungnam National University in South Korea introduced a series of methods for solving planning, scheduling, and supply chain problems. Professor Furong Gao from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Professor Lu Jingyi from the East China University of Science and Technology showcased advanced control strategies for various batch processes.On the morning of April 9th, Professor Marianthi Ierapetritou from the University of Delaware, Professor Mauricio Sales-Cruz, Vice President of the UAM-Cuajimalpa in Mexico, Professor Zhou Teng from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Professor Amornchai Arpornwichanop from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand, and Professor Lin Dongqiang from the College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University introduced new technologies in process systems engineering to promote sustainability.On the afternoon of April 9th, Professor Chen Xi shared the mechanism of process modeling and data integration methods, while Professor Luis Ricardez-Sandoval from the University of Waterloo in Canada and Professor Li Xiang from the College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University shared new algorithms for integer programming and global optimization in process optimization.Subsequently, experts from the industries such as Gong Han, CEO of the Shanghai Amino Chemical Co., Ltd, Li Lei, one of the department directors of SINOPEC Engineering Incorporation, Chen Bo, one of the department directors of SINOPEC (Dalian) Petrochemical Research Institute Co., Ltd, Jiang Ke, Engineer from Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd, and Feng Yongjun, one of the department directorsof China Kunlun Contracting and Engineering Corporation discussed innovative industrial applications of process systems engineering from the perspectives of intelligent manufacturing, digital twins, industrial intelligence, and process control.On the morning of April 10th, Professor Hirokazu Sugiyama from the University of Tokyo, Professor Syeda Sultana Razia from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Professor Zhang Lei from Dalian University of Technology, and Professor Luke Achenie from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA detailed new methods in hybrid modeling and deep learning. Subsequently, Professor Rafiqul Gani delivered a report titled PSE Perspectives: the Good, the Very Good and the Not So Good providing a systematic outlook on the future development of process systems engineering. Finally, Professor Chen Xi and Professor Gani concluded the workshop.Throughout the workshop, focused discussions with corresponding speakers were organized after each speech and report. Attendees actively exchanged ideas, asked questions, and discussed enthusiastically. Many students and corporate delegates also actively participated in the discussion, creating a lively atmosphere. Each discussion session lasted for nearly an hour.The workshop also attracted numerous attendees from universities, research institutes, and industries, including Zhejiang University, Tsinghua University, Tianjin University, Dalian University of Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, East China University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, China University of Petroleum, Ocean University of China, Hefei University of Technology, Zhejiang University of Technology, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Wenzhou University, Xiamen University of Technology, Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology, Huzhou Industrial Control Technology Research Institute, Quzhou Research Institute of Zhejiang University, and the SZ-HK Collaborative Innovation Research Institute, HKUST, as well as enterprises such as SINOPEC Engineering Incorporation, SINOPEC (Dalian) Petrochemical Research Institute Co., Ltd, Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd, Shanghai Amino Chemical Co., Ltd, and China Kunlun Contracting and Engineering Corporation.The workshop promoted the exchange of the latest research results and technologies in the international field of process systems engineering, deepened academic exchanges between domestic and international process systems engineering, promoted the transformation of the latest scientific and technological achievements, and facilitated the integration of industry, academia, research, and application. Experts and scholars will continue to work together to promote the innovative development of process systems engineering and make positive contributions to addressing future challenges in this field.

ZJU scientists develop AI co-pilot bronchoscope robot

ZJU 2023 SDG Global Summer School recruitment kicks off

Zhejiang University(ZJU) 2023 SDG Global Summer School will take place from July 31 to August 14 in a virtual format. We welcome students from around the world to the Global Summer School for academic learning and cultural experience opportunities. This two-week program will allow undergraduate and graduate students to take credit-bearing courses themed on SDGs under the mentorship of prestigious professors from ZJU and partner universities.Students will be able to choose from 5 academic modules, namely Carbon Neutrality, Inclusive Development, Smart City, Data Visualization and Networked Autonomous Systems, based on their interests. Each module contains over 30 hours of courses and addresses the most critical issues for a sustainable future. Students will have access to all courses during the summer school. Eligible participants will receive a digital transcript and a certificate after completing the course and assignments.One of the modules Networked Autonomous Systems will be offered by the College of Control Science and Engineering. Together with our international partners, we are planning to offer a comprehensive module which will enable students to have a solid understanding on the theory and practice of networked autonomous systems.This module consists of three chapters. The first chapter will cover the fundamental theory of unmanned systems and swarm intelligence, as well as the essential concepts of perception, planning and control. It will also incorporate several interdisciplinary cutting-edge topics such as optimization, learning, game theory, security.The second and third chapters highlight the potential applications of NASs in sustainable manufacturing, energy, transportation, etc. The second chapter will focus on green production and intelligent manufacturing, covering topics such as Industrial Internet of Things, metaverse and telerobotics, while the third chapter will be dedicated to renewable energy, as well as initiatives on smart grid, green transportation, and edge computing.An optional and non-curricular activity is designed for you as a complement to the academic program. Don’t miss the opportunity to get to know more about your peers, Zhejiang University, the city of Hangzhou and Chinese culture while embracing a sustainable lifestyle.Applications are now open until Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 11:59 p.m. (GMT+8). Please visit sdg-gss.zju.edu.cn for application details and more.

Admission 2024! ZJU International Undergraduate Program in Automation

Admission 2024!ZJU International Undergraduate Program in Automation1.   Program OverviewZhejiang University (ZJU) is one of China’s top higher education institutions, as well as one of its oldest. Laying claim to several areas of research strength, ZJU currently ranks 42th in the QS World University Rankings, 11th in the US NEWS Best Global Universities for Engineering, and 18th in the Global Ranking of Academic Subjects-Automation & Control of the Shanghai Ranking.Photo credit: NI Yingjie Zhejiang University is located in Hangzhou, the capital of East China's Zhejiang province, about 110 miles southwest of Shanghai. One of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization and ranking among the seven ancient capitals in China, Hangzhou is home to three world cultural heritage sites, namely West Lake, the Grand Canal, and the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City. Hangzhou today is a historical and cultural city full of innovation vigor. It is now an emerging technology hub and home to the headquarters of Alibaba, Net-Ease, Geely, Hikvision and thousands of technology enterprises. It successfully hosted the G20 Summit in 2016, and the Asian Games in 2023. To explore Hangzhou city, please visit http://www.ehangzhou.gov.cn/Photo credit: trip.com/CGTN The College of Control Science and Engineering (CSE) of ZJU can be traced back to 1956. For more than 60 years, CSE has been focusing on basic research and original innovation, aiming for the frontiers of science and technology, and serving the country’s strategic needs. It has formed an Innovation Value Chain of “Basic scientific research – Technological innovation – Application of advances in science and technology – Commercialization”. The college’s scientific and technological achievements have been awarded 16 prizes of the State Science and Technology Award and 6 prizes of other national level awards. Currently, CSE is one of the most prestigious research and education bases in the area of industrial process control in China. CSE has been selected for the national Double First-class Initiative and rated A+ (Top 3) in the Chinese University Disciplines Assessment. CSE has a total of 102 full-time faculty members with 57 full professors and research fellows in the broad area of Automation, more than 500 registered undergraduate students and 700 Master’s and PhD students, more than 30 among whom are international students.   Photo credit: Science Robotics/PNAS/Nature Communication The CSE’s core areas of research include: Industrial Intelligence and Optimization ControlIndustrial Big Data, Knowledge Automation, Large-scale System Optimization, DistributedCoordinated Control, Intelligent Manufacturing, Smart Factory, etc. Robotics and Intelligent Unmanned SystemsPerception, Planning, Control, Coordination, Learning and Decision, etc. Cyber Security and Safety for Industrial Control SystemsCyber Security, Industrial Internet Security, Networking Security, Intrusion Detection and Evaluation, Security Protection and Defense, Fault Diagnosis and Health Management, Safety Management & Assessment, Industrial Safety & Security Protocol, Cryptography and Security Algorithms, etc. Smart Sensing and MeasurementIntelligent Perception, Biology Perception, Intelligence Evaluation and Early Warning, Highly Adaptable Optical Detection, High-precision Microfluidic Analysis, Micro-nano Detection Technology and Instrument, Quantum Perception, Quantum Computing and Measurement and Control, etc. CSE also houses several national and international research labs and centers. Research Institutes· Institute of Industrial Process Control· Institute for Smart Sensing and Measurement· Institute of Cyber-Systems and Control· Institute of Industrial Intelligence and Systems Engineering· Institute of Control Equipment and Comprehensive Safety National Research Labs/Centers·         State Key Laboratory of Industrial Control Technology·         National Engineering Research Center of Industrial Automation·         National Engineering Laboratory for Security Technology of Industrial Control System·         National Center for International Research - Quality-targeted Process Optimization and Control Overseas Academician Joint Labs· Control and System Security· Intelligent Robotics 2.   Program CharacteristicsThe Undergraduate Program in Automation adopts “3+1” mode. Students will spend first three years of study at International Campus, Haining, and final year study at Yuquan Campus, Hangzhou. The ZJU International Campus in Haining has adopted a model of creating Joint Institutes with partner universities, and Joint Institutes have already been successfully established with the University of Edinburgh and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (ZJU-UoE and ZJU-UIUC Institutes) and Imperial College London (ZJU-Imperial Joint Lab for Applied Data Science). Haining is a county-level city in Zhejiang Province, and under the jurisdiction of Jiaxing. It is 61.5 km to the east of Hangzhou. This program encourages students to develop broad outlooks and allows them to take courses in related technical fields, such as Sensor and Instrumentation, Big Data Security and Privacy Preserving, Computer Systems Engineering, Data Structure, Computer Security, Artificial Intelligence, or Introduction to Robotics. This program also allows students to take a combination of courses that lead to specialization options in Control Science and Engineering, Big Data and Artificial Intelligence or Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing. The program provides rich resources for students through the International Joint Research Center, global top tertiary institutions/partners, and distinguished faculty with overseas experiences. Student learning is supplemented by a variety of laboratory training and scientific projects. Students will also be able to develop scientific research and problem-solving skills through the final-year project under the guidance of eminent supervisors. Seminars, industrial visits, and overseas study tours are also available to broaden students' horizons. A plenty of academic pathways and opportunities will be provided to students, leading them to pursue further studies in worldwide top universities or continue their studies in ZJU. 3.   Program Aims & Learning OutcomesThis program is an ideal choice for those who wish to pursue studies in Industrial Automation, System Control, and Robotics. It addresses latest technologies and their applications in control science and engineering, enabling students to explore new technological innovations. Students are expected to acquire:· consolidated fundamental theory, specialized knowledge and technology in automation and related fields;· ability to propose questions and solve problems in automation and related fields;· ability to track and develop new theory, knowledge and technologies in automation and related fields;· ability to conduct interdisciplinary and innovative research in automation and related fields;· ability to work independently and a lifelong learning mindset;· Effective communication and teamwork skills;· global vision and international competitiveness. 4.   CurriculumThis program curriculum is sophistically designed in terms of courses, laboratory and research trainings and internships. All the courses are instructed in English (Chinese language courses are excluded). The 4-year curriculum focuses on principles and methods for designing and controlling engineered and natural systems, covering all the major aspects of control engineering, systems modeling and simulation, with applications ranging from classical control system design to optimal adaptive and intelligent control systems. It also emphasizes the multidisciplinary character of the field and specific areas of interest including automation technology, instrument technology, information technology, computer technology and robotic technology. 5.   Recognition & ProspectsList of International Competition Rewards Received by Automation Undergraduates· 2013, 2014, 2018, 2019 World Championship of RoboCup-Small Size League· The 44th, 45th, 46th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, Gold Medal with the Congratulations of the Jury· World Championship of the International Aerial Robotics Competition, for Mission 7, from 2014 – 2018  Photo credit: CSE Over 80% of our graduates pursued further studies either here at ZJU or abroad. Our graduates are globally competitive and prepared to undertake advanced technical and managerial work in different fields and industries, ranging from project engineers, systems, and control engineers, to computer systems integrators. List of the Destinations of Recent Graduates in Automation:· California Institute of Technology· Carnegie Mellon University· Columbia University· Harvard University· Stanford University· University of California, Berkeley· University of Cambridge· University of Oxford· Yale University· Air Liquide· Alibaba Group· BAYER· BASF· China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation· China Electronics Technology Group· China Mobile· Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China· Emerson· Honeywell· Huawei Technologies· ROYAL PHILIPS· Schneider· Siemens· SUPCON· United Technologies Corporation· YOKOGAWA 6.   Tuition & ExpensesTuition: RMB 80,000 per Academic YearAccommodation: RMB 8,000 per academic year for the first 3 years at Haining Campus. RMB 18,000-30,000 per academic year per room (depending on room types) for the 4th year at Yuquan Campus.  7.   ScholarshipsThe applicants with academic excellence and self-confidence will have a good opportunity to be granted scholarships:· Full-scholarship: RMB 80,000 per Academic Year· Half-scholarship: RMB 40,000 per Academic YearEach scholarship will be reviewed annually and renewed up to four academic years on the conditions that the student meets requirements for satisfactory progress toward the degrees and follows the rules of Zhejiang University. 8.   Student Message · I am Monish Mithra Waran Maheswaran from Malaysia, Automations Class of 2025, College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University. The greatest distinguisher between a good education and a mediocre one is not in what we learn but how we learn. My experience here thus far is one of exploration. Our curriculum, staff, and various organizations within our institution challenges us on all fronts, forcing us to explore and find our own ways, albeit providing us ample guidance to improve our learning efficacy. This is a learning experience whereby it is both difficult yet rewarding. As we learn, we discover exciting applications for our knowledge, pairing that with the opportunities for research and collaboration by our professors and among the research community worldwide, even as a freshman, you feel that your voice is heard, and that you can make a difference. If this is the experience that you’re looking for, then this is the place to be.-- Monish Mithra Waran Maheswaran (Malaysian)2021 International Undergraduate Program in Automation Student Winner of 2021 ZJU Full Scholarship · I am Naruesorn Dechnorachai, an undergraduate student of CSE's International Automation program from Thailand admitted in 2020. With the introduction of the Covid-19 pandemic, I was temporarily unable to attend the classes on the campus, so I have to join the classes online from my country instead. However, the school is trying their best to provide me with the best educational experience and I am impressed with the result. Furthermore, most of the professors here graduated from various prestigious universities across the world like Tsinghua University, NTU and even MIT!  Definitely, the education here is world's class as well as one of the best engineering programs in China so far. Hence, I am looking forward to my engineering journey here!-- NARUESORN DECHNORACHAI (Thai)2020 International Undergraduate Program in Automation StudentWinner of 2020 ZJU Half Scholarship · I’m Yee Chan Yang from Malaysia. I was enrolled in Bachelor of Automation in Zhejiang University in 2017. Zhejiang University is one of the top universities in China, I can feel that professors here are really distinguished scholars. Learning atmosphere here is really excellent but also competitive, because all of the students here were top-students in the national entrance examination of China. My Chinese classmates are always willing to explain the questions for me. While China is a developing country, technology in Hangzhou has been highly developed. So, Zhejiang University is a good choice if you want to major in science and technology.-- YEE CHAN YANG (Malaysian)2017 Automation Undergraduate Student · I have been admitted as an international undergraduate student in Automation starting September 2018. I am fully satisfactory about my life and study at Zhejiang University and the CSE. Different from cosmopolitan city such as Beijing and Shanghai, Hangzhou is much more pretty with wonderful natural scenery and air quality. The living expenses are reasonable in Hangzhou and the public transportation is convenient around campus. I look forward to my new development here.-- LEE SUKHYUN (Korean)2018 Automation Undergraduate Student  · The most profound experience that the CSE and Automation brings to me is all-encompassing. Critical perception, proficient in calculation, skillful in decision-making and hardworking on subjects learning are all what I gained from my 4-year undergraduate study of Automation! That will definitely be of benefit to my future PhD studies at Stanford University. Because of the disciplinary diversity, students can find their own direction of in-depth exploration and learning. I very much treasure this intensive and diverse learning experience here!-- ZHAN Xianghao2015 Automation Undergraduate StudentWinner of 2018 ZJU Chu Kochen Scholarships 9.   ApplicationApplication Season:  From now on to Feburary 29, 2024.Please make sure to complete the online application before the deadline. Please note:All the applicants must log into the Online Application System for International Students of Zhejiang University (Link), submit all the necessary application documents strictly as required and pay the application fee. For details of Applicants Eligibility, Application, Selection Process and Admission,please refer to the Admission Bulletin (2024): https://iczu.zju.edu.cn/admissionsen/2022/0530/c68997a2590760/page.htm10. Contact UsMs. SHAO DanleiTel: +86-571-87953386E-mail: danleishao@zju.edu.cnInternational Relations Office, College of Control Science and Engineering, Yuquan Campus, Zhejiang University Ms. XIE YingfengTel: +86-571-87952457E-mail: xieyingfeng@zju.edu.cnUndergraduate Academic Office, College of Control Science and Engineering, Yuquan Campus, Zhejiang University For further information, please refer to:CSE Homepage http://www.cse.zju.edu.cn/english/ Follow us on social media:WeChat (in Chinese)LinkedIn

ZJU-CSE holds Cyber+ Innovation Camp

CSE held a 20-days long Cyber+ Innovation Camp at the south side of Taihu Lake, South Taihu New District, Huzhou in August. More than 20 young talents from Zhejiang University, Tsinghua University, Harbin Institute of Technology, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and Lund University attended the camp to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Among them, some have rich experience in innovation and entrepreneurship competitions and have numerous invention patents, some are starters with huge entrepreneurial dreams, some are hands-on experts in science and engineering, and some are planning and design experts.Prof Chao Xu, made a warm welcome to all attendants. He expressed that the Cyber+ Innovation Camp is the first step of entrepreneurship. We will provide a high-quality platform and rich entrepreneurship resources for every student, and cultivate and lead more young entrepreneurial talents.Centering on the theme of “Cyber+”, the Camp gathered an excellent STEM+B mentor group. 13 technical experts, business elites and entrepreneurial celebrities were invited as lecturers, 6 Principle Investigators with ZJU Huzhou Institute were invited to give technical guidance, and 2 business mentors provided full guidance. In addition, the Camp has gathered support from 23 research centers with ZJU Huzhou Institute. With the support of mentors, students could learn experiences from top scholars and experts, apply cross-contextual knowledge, found industry bottleneck, to make each brilliant idea finally fall into reality.The Camp courses comprised of 3 parts: entrepreneurial thinking, entrepreneurial growth and entrepreneurial cultivation. The courses involves business analysis, product design, customer seeking, risk control, business proposal writing skills, financing skills and professional techniques. Apart from the courses, the Camp agenda involves entrepreneurship experience sharing, group discussion and project roadshow.As an important part of this Cyber+ International Science and Technology Innovation Camp, we successfully connected with several overseas renowned technical experts to give lectures online. Among them was Dr. Shi Guanya from the California Institute of Technology. As a senior scholar in the field of machine learning and control, he gave a lecture entitled Neural-Control Family: Safe Agile Deep-learning-based Robotic Control in Dynamic Environments. The lecture focuses on machine deep learning and the modeling application of neural networks in real-world non-stationary nonlinear environments.In addition, Dr. Zhang Yanliang, chief scientist from Weston Robert Company in Singapore, gave us a class on "Using Robot Toolbox to Accelerate the Landing of Hardware Products" based on his years of development experience in the field of mobile robots. This class gave us a glimpse into the cutting edge of hardware and software development for robotic deployment.Throughout the 20 days, students firstly took part in the Renhuang Mountain hiking activity. Students were invited to climb the mountain to appreciate the beauty of Huzhou ecology. By Taihu Lake, the students watched an intelligent equipment flash mob which presented the integration of beauty and technology. In Huanglong Cave, the students also watched “machine detectors” performing an underground space autonomous exploration action, which presented the real-world application of technology.During the camp the students also visited a 3D printing technology enterprise in Deqing. The enterprise is founded by Tianrun Chen, a Gen Z rising star from Zhejiang University. During the visit, Tianrun Chen introduced the company and shared his entrepreneurial experience.At the project roadshow on the last day of the camp, students present their scientific innovation achievements and works. Experts and researchers from Talent Center of South Taihu District, Jinfu Equity Investment, Mizuda Group, and Incubation Center of ZJU Huzhou Institute served as judges, evaluating each roadshow project from five aspects: feasibility, innovation, team cooperation, market development prospect, and on-site performance. Finally, “Jicanghai - the Pioneer of Intelligent Sanitation and Cleaning of Beach Wetland”, “Tianma Dual-Purpose Exploration Robot for Open Space”, and “The Fourth Generation of Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Solution” stood out, followed with a short ceremony.During the roadshow, Xinjiang Zhu, from the Party Group of Huzhou Human Resources and Social Security Bureau, expressed his satisfaction and appreciation for the holding of the Cyber + Innovation Camp, and actively encouraged students to stay in Huzhou for innovation and entrepreneurship, so as to contribute youth strength to accelerate the city construction of low-cost entrepreneurship and high-quality life. Shuming Shao, Section Chief from the Talent Center, South Taihu New District, introduced university students’ employment and entrepreneurship polices in South Taihu New District. Wei Zhang, assistant dean with ZJU Huzhou Institute expressed high expectations to students, and he said that “I hope you can keep a clear mind in the pursue of scientific innovation, follow scientific methods, uphold the spirit of seeking truth from facts, and wish you a steady and long journey in the future”.Within 20 days, students had a fulfilling and challenging start-up time. Although the camp was brought to a successful conclusion, the students' journey in science, technology, and innovation has just started. We believe that as long as their original aspiration and dreams remain unchanged, the students will have bright future in entrepreneurship.

ZJU holds Opening Assembly for Class of 2026

On the evening of September 8, the Zhejiang University Opening Assembly for the Class of 2026 was held on Zijingang Campus.President WU Zhaohui delivered a welcoming speech at the Opening Assembly. He urged freshmen to grow into a new generation capable of shouldering responsibilities with their firm belief in the ideal of rejuvenating our great nation, innovative talents equipped with the skills of seeking truth, and globally competitive leaders with a broad vision of harmonizing the whole world. “I hope that you will live up to the promise of your youth and the expectations of your times, and taking the spirit of a first-class university in the new era as your guide, write a more brilliant chapter of your life in Qiushi Garden,” said WU Zhaohui.Prof. LI Hanying at the Department of Polymer Science and Engineering spoke on behalf of faculty and staff. He encouraged freshmen to pursue excellence and shoulder responsibility. He hoped that every student would uphold the motto of “seeking truth and pursuing innovation” and take the initiative in integrating personal aspirations with national prosperity and rejuvenation with passion and confidence.“The motto of ‘seeking truth and pursuing innovation’ is the cornerstone of my academic career,” said CAS Fellow MA Yugang, a distinguished nuclear physicist and alumnus representation. He suggested that freshmen should aspire to serve the country through their studies, cultivate independent and innovative thinking and develop an outlook on life from a “little self” to a “big self”.TANG Jiale spoke as a freshman representative. “As we meet here by River Qiantang, we should bear in mind the country’s most fundamental interests, and undertake the historical mission of ZJUers,” said TANG, “I will have high aspirations and develop a keen sense of responsibility for the entire humanity; I will study hard and search high and low for knowledge; I will keep the initiative and determination to seek truth; I will ride on the light of Zhejiang University to chase the light of society and China.”At the Opening Assembly, a Fei Gong lamp was passed around from the old generation of Zhejiang University to incoming freshmen, symbolizing that each freshman will embark on their journey of seeking truth and pursuing innovation, thereby writing a new chapter of their life.Starting today, a new cohort of students will share the honorable title of “ZJUer” with many brilliant names in history and take on the responsibility for the country and society together.

Insight@ZJU: President WU Zhaohui shares his vision for the role of the university in shaping society

[Editor’s Note: In a world of uncertainty, how should universities retain their relevance, value and meaning? What role should universities play in shaping society? Prof. WU Zhaohui, president of Zhejiang University, shared his insight recently in University World News.]In a world of uncertainty, how should universities retain their relevance, value and meaning? This question came under the spotlight at the third World Higher Education Conference held in Barcelona earlier this year.To answer it, we need to look at the past and present of our institutions, explore their role in shaping society and draw inspiration for the much-needed roadmap ahead.Founded in 1897, Zhejiang University (ZJU) is one of China’s oldest higher education institutions and is now among the fastest-growing ones globally. During the Second World War, it was forced to move over 1,000 miles inland to continue its educational mission.Despite malnutrition, disease, air strikes and against all the odds, the university still produced some 1,300 graduates, including renowned physicist Tsung-Dao Lee and mathematician Gu Chaohao.Over the course of the eight-year evacuation, faculty and students forged close bonds with the towns and villages which gave them shelter. Whilst in Meitan, an impoverished county in Southwest China, they helped set up primary, secondary and vocational schools to develop the local workforce.Such special bonds have been kept by generations of ZJU student volunteers who help local youth to improve their college readiness.As times change, new challenges emerge in teaching and learning. Even for wealthier provinces like Zhejiang, quality educational provision can fall short of meeting society’s needs. In early 2013, ZJU started to create an International Campus based in the region.This is China’s first campus for transnational education and hosts several joint institutes with US and UK partners. It seeks to combine the best of East and Western education to train globally minded, high-calibre innovators.For families with modest incomes, the campus provides an economical alternative to the traditional study abroad paradigm. And it is also an exemplary demonstration of how partners can consolidate meaningful links across borders.The delivery of education must adapt to new contexts as well. After the early outbreak of COVID-19, ZJU quickly switched to online education. Thanks to its digital governance framework encompassing smart classrooms, teacher training in online delivery and virtual learning platforms, more than 5,000 courses were on offer just two weeks into the transition.Now, two years into the pandemic, hybrid learning helps protect the continuity of learning against known and unknown risks.The role of science in developmentThe modern university is not only a place for scholarship, but also a research and innovation hub. That science would revitalise the war-torn nation was a genuine belief held by the ZJU community in the 20th century.When British biochemist Dr Joseph Needham visited Meitan in 1944, he was impressed by the advances made by ZJU professors in difficult conditions. With his help, Nature published five papers authored by ZJU faculty in recognition of the originality of their research work.The past four decades have, according to the World Bank, seen China lift nearly 800 million people out of poverty.As China’s poverty is concentrated in rural areas, agricultural development is considered a main driver of poverty reduction. By constantly improving agricultural research, universities play a crucial role in the modernisation of the agricultural sector, leading to growing productivity and higher incomes.In the last century, ZJU academics blazed the trail for soil science, rice science and entomology in China. Today, a new generation of researchers are tackling agricultural problems from diverse angles, ranging from crop breeding to agribusiness.For instance, Dr Ye Ming’er, associate professor of horticulture and a ‘Food Hero’ honoured by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization, has promoted fruit tree technology aimed at boosting farmers’ incomes. ZJU’s Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD) shares China’s experience through annual anti-poverty seminars for the Global South, benefiting over 700 trainees in 100-plus countries.Against the backdrop of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), scientific discovery and technological innovation have been prioritised as propellers of economic growth and human well-being. ZJU provides fertile ground for talented researchers to pursue transborder innovation.Together with international colleagues, they have deciphered the early evolutionary history of the solar system from meteorites, developed graphene aerogel �C the world’s lightest material which can be used in the next generation of clothing and batteries �C and set new efficiency records for low-cost, solution-processed organic light-emitting diodes and perovskite light-emitting diodes.A global approach to the common goodWith a wide range of expertise, comprehensive universities have a natural advantage in serving communities, be they local or global. Medicine is a good example. ZJU’s medical education dates back to 1912 and the establishment of Zhejiang Medical School.During the COVID-19 pandemic, with hundreds of medics battling the virus in Wuhan and Hangzhou in Spring 2020, ZJU compiled a database of first-hand experiences early on in COVID-19 prevention and control.Shortly afterwards, we reached out to global partners to circulate this knowledge via webinars and multi-language handbooks.A group of medical experts from ZJU’s First Affiliated Hospital helped combat the pandemic in the Italian city of Bergamo, which was grappling with the largest outbreak in Europe.Like COVID, many interconnected global threats are urgent and complex. We hold that international links form the basis for any collaborative solution.Therefore, ZJU has incorporated a “global problem-solving” mindset into its global strategy. The strategy is augmented through a Sustainability Action Plan: A Global ZJU for Social Good (Z4G), which embeds sustainability in learning, scholarship and campus operations.Under Z4G, we launched a Joint Statement on the 2030 Agenda, supported by leaders of 61 universities in 31 countries and regions. We have set aside joint funds with partners in Europe, North America and Australia to nurture collaborative research on global challenges.Also, in line with the UNESCO recommendation adopted last November, ZJU actively engages in national efforts to promote Open Science as a critical accelerator for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in China and the Global South.A roadmap for higher educationWhile deeply rooted in China’s history and tradition, ZJU is keen to navigate change so we can thrive in a world of flux. For example, we are bringing together talent and resources to delve into new issues arising from local and national development, such as inclusive growth and carbon neutrality.While empowering local practices with global perspectives, our researchers collaborate internationally to channel local experience into solutions for regional and global issues, including food security and clean energy.In its seminal report Reimagining our futures together, UNESCO sets out a vision for a new social contract for education based on the common good.I believe universities of the future must be firmly woven into this contract. Their ongoing relevance must be strengthened through the third mission: to integrate and establish meaningful relationships with their local communities. Furthermore, universities with an international outlook must serve to bring together diverse communities and cultures that face common problems.In sum, we should be more open and eager to do things differently while embracing, reimagining and shaping the 4IR. This includes providing flexible learning pathways drawing on industry perspectives and ICT approaches, developing transdisciplinary collaborations that require research and solutions to be co-designed with external stakeholders and creating diverse and inclusive campuses to strengthen dialogue among different civilisations.In the context of climate change, college campuses must lead by example on carbon reduction too. Through constant adaptation and transformation, universities will have a better chance of establishing themselves as an engine for social progress and a powerhouse of possibilities for a shared future. 

ZJU-UoE Symposium on Robotics and Digital Manufacturing

On June 23 �C 24, the symposium on Robotics and Digital Manufacturing, jointly organized by the Zhejiang University (ZJU) and the University of Edinburgh (UoE), has been held online. Dr. Nan Yu and Prof. XU Chao are the organizers from UoE and ZJU, respectively. Nearly 20 professors and scholars from ZJU and UoE attended the symposium.Prof. LI Min and Prof. Conchúr ó Brádaigh made the opening remarks. On behalf of ZJU, Prof. LI Min extended a warm welcome to all attendants, and affirmed the beneficial cooperation between ZJU and UoE over the years. She hoped that the symposium would promote cross-field, cross-regional, cross-country and cross-cultural exchanges and open a new chapter of future cooperation. Prof. Conchúr ó Brádaigh introduced the academic achievements of UoE’s School of Engineering. He pointed out that the symposium offered an opportunity for academics to come together to learn from and with each other, and expressed his hope for a deepen bilateral relations and cooperation.Dr. LIU Jian introduced the history and solid cooperation between ZJU and UoE. While the two universities are committed to integrating advantages, they continue to innovate cooperation modes, which have achieved pleasant results. He looked forward to extensive cooperation, and an innovation ecosystem of  "science-education integration, industry-education integration, and university-city integration".Dr. Chen Qin and Dr. CAI Shengze co-chaired the first part of the symposium on Robotics. Prof. XU Chao, Dr. GAO Fei, Dr. ZHU Qiuguo, as well as Dr. CAI Shengze delivered research progress on the industrial automation and robotics, the cluster of micro-autonomous aerial robots, the development and application of legged robot, as well as the application of deep learning for tomographic particle tracking velocimetry. Dr. Chen Qin, Dr. Yunjie Yang, and Dr. Francesco Giorgio-Serchi presented their research progress in healthcare + AI, soft robotics, and soft robotics in the offshore industry. Prof. Tom Bruce introduced the international development of UoE.The second part of the symposium on Intelligent Manufacturing was chaired by Dr. Nan Yu. In the keynote speech, Dr. Yuanliu Chen introduced the research progress of precision control, tool positioning and online quality inspection in ultra-precision machining technology. Later, Dr. XU Fangda introduced the team’s techniques and achievements in additive manufacturing. Dr. GONG Hai gave an in-depth introduction around high-resolution wavefront sensor and optical path difference. Prof. Jonathan Corney from UoE, presented the university’s master program in Digital Design and Manufacturing, and exchanged views on data mining. Dr. Samuel Tammas-Williams, Dr. Nan Yu and Dr. Sina Haer respectively gave lectures on 3D imaging of metal additive manufacturing, digital plasma optical processing, and modeling and simulation of powder particles in additive manufacturing, and shared their latest research results with the audience.At the closing ceremony, Prof. XU Chao and Prof. Xianfeng Fan expressed their thanks to all organizers, professors and scholars. The symposium brought together experts from both sides, providing an opportunity to expand academic vision and deepen academic cooperation. ZJU and UoE have a long history of cooperation, and this event marks a new step forward in their cooperation. They would like to continue to deepen cooperation, expand cooperation areas, and innovate cooperation models.GAO Fei is currently a tenure-track Assistant Professor with the College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, where he works as the deputy-director and the technical leader of the Field Autonomous System and Computing (FAST) Laboratory, and leads the Flying Autonomous Robotics (FAR) group. He also works as a Principle Investigator for the Center of Autonomous Navigation of Swarm Robotics in Huzhou Institute of Zhejiang University. His research interests include aerial robots, autonomous navigation, motion planning, optimization, localization, and mapping.Talk: Micro Aerial Swarm Flying out of LaboratoryChen Qin is a Lecturer in Computer Vision and Machine Learning at Electronics and Electrical Engineering at the University of Edinburgh. Her research is at the interdisciplinary field of artificial intelligence and medical imaging, aiming to improve the entire medical imaging/radiology workflow with significant impact for clinical use via machine intelligence.Talk: Machine Learning in Medical Imaging: from Signals to InterpretationZHU Qiuguo is an Associate Professor with the College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University. His research interests include the control of humanoid robots, bipedal and quadrupedal walking and running, manipulators, rehabilitation exoskeletons and machine intelligence.Talk: Towards Real-World Development and Control of Legged RobotsYunjie Yang is the Chancellor’s Fellow in Data Driven Innovation and Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh. His research interests are in the areas of sensing and imaging with AI-based tomography, machine learning, digital twins, and flexible sensors.Talk: Perceptive Sensing for Soft RoboticsCAI Shengze received the PhD degree from the Zhejiang University in 2019. His research interests include deep learning methods and their applications in physics-related problems such as fluid dynamics.Talk: Physics-informed Deep Learning for Tomographic Particle Tracking VelocimetryFrancesco Giorgio-Serchi is the Chancellor’s Fellow in Robotics and Autonomous Systems at the University of Edinburgh. His research interests include robotics, soft robotics, underwater robotics, fluid mechanics, computational fluid dynamics, aquatic propulsion, biological flows, and AI-based structural condition monitoring.Talk: Mechatronics and Control of Underwater Soft Robots for the Offshore IndustryTom Bruce is the Professor and Director of Internationalization at the University of Edinburgh. His research expertise is wave �C structure interaction, wave hydrodynamics, and flow measurement �C particle image velocimetry. His research interests include wave overtopping, and blockwork coastal structures.Talk: Internationalization of UoEXU Chao is the Associate Dean and Professor with the College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University. He also serves the inaugural Dean of ZJU Huzhou Institute. His research expertise is Control and Autonomous Systems in general, with a focus on modeling & control of aerial robotics with applications, machine learning for dynamic systems & control, visual sensing & machine learning for complex fluids.Talk: A Quick Overview on Industrial Automation and Robotics Research & Practice at ZJU-CSEJonathan Corney is the Professor and Chair of Digital Manufacture at the University of Edinburgh. He also serves as the Director of MSc in Digital Design and Manufacture.Talk:1. Introduction of MSc Programme in Digital Design and Manufacture2. Data Mining for Engineering Design and ManufactureXU Fangda is a Principle Investigator with the Additive Manufacturing and Digital System Center, Huzhou Institute of Zhejiang University. His research interests include advanced metal additive process control system and digital twin and simulation, with a focus on large-scale advanced metal additive process, advanced process sensing and measuring, digital twin and simulation system, and frontier advanced manufacturing process.Talk: AMtwin �C Next Generation Data-driven Additive Manufacturing Simulation MethodSamuel Tammas-Williams is a Lecturer in Digital Manufacture at the University of Edinburgh. His research interests include additive manufacture of metal components, X-ray computed tomography, materials integrity, functionally graded materials.Talk: 3D Imaging of Metal Additive ManufactureNan Yu is a Lecturer in Digital Manufacture at the University of Edinburgh. His research interests include digitally supported process, large scale metrology; advanced plasma technologies, and ultra-precision manufacturing.Talk: Digitally Supported Plasma Processing for Ultra-precision OpticsGONG Hai is currently a Principle Investigator with the Intelligent Optical Sensing and Control Research Center, Huzhou Institute of Zhejiang University. His research interests include structured light illumination microscopy, adaptive optics, wave-front sensing, optical precision metrology and other related opto-mechatronics.Talk: Optical Path Difference Measurement with a Shack-Hartmann WavefrontSina Haeri is a Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the Institute for Materials and Processes in Edinburgh University. His expertise is in the modeling and simulation of particle (granular) / particle-laden systems.Talk: Particle-Scale Modelling of Powder-Based Additive Manufacturing ProcessesReprinted from:  Huzhou Institute of Zhejiang UniversityReporter: WANG Feiqiong

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