Pioneering AI+science academy inaugurated

A groundbreaking academy specializing in training cross-disciplinary talent in artificial intelligence (AI) and science was inaugurated in Shenzhen. The Science and Artificial Intelligence Academy of Peking University, the world's first of its kind, focuses on the deep integration of artificial intelligence and basic sciences.

Peking University announces the opening of the Science and Artificial Intelligence Academy in Shenzhen on Saturday. Photo from WeChat account "深圳卫视深视新闻"

Adopting a dual-track mentorship system for "AI+Science," the forward-looking academy has created an innovative scientific research paradigm that deeply integrates scientific principles with big data. It is committed to cultivating cutting-edge interdisciplinary talent with global vision and a capacity for innovation.

During the inauguration ceremony, Leung Chun-ying, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and former Hong Kong chief executive, addressed the audience. 

“The core of national technological competition is shifting towards cross-innovation driven by AI. The academy will not only help tackle tough challenges in fields such as materials, energy, and life sciences, but also inject new momentum into the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to build a world-class science and innovation hub,” Leung said. 

Efim Zelmanov — member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, a Fields Medalist, and member of the new academy's advisory committee — said AI algorithms have broad applicability and can be utilized in science, medicine, and many other fields. In the future, students, after receiving specialized training, will be able to skillfully apply AI technologies in scientific research, and this experience will be of great help to them.