August 22, 2024 marked a milestone for Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation (SMART). On this special day, the academy welcomed its very first cohort of SMART PhD students with a grand opening ceremony held at the lecture hall of Weiguang Life Science Park. From this day forward, these talented young scholars will embark on a new chapter of their lives—one shaped by a training system that is high-standard, globally oriented, interdisciplinary, and boundary-breaking. Their journey into the world of medical science has officially begun.

A Warm Welcome from President Nieng Yan

The ceremony began with opening remarks from Professor Nieng Yan, Founding President of SMART. She reflected on the rapid, powerful, and human-centered development of Shenzhen as a city and expressed his hope that this inaugural cohort will help push scientific discovery to new heights. Professor Yan described the ceremony as a landmark moment—not just for the students, but for SMART itself, symbolizing the academy’s official entry into the field of education. She extended his warmest welcome and heartfelt congratulations to the incoming students, thanking them for their trust and courage in choosing SMART.

Professor Yan encouraged the students to be bold—to think and ask without fear, to explore freely within the framework of scientific rigor and academic integrity. She called on them to embody the spirit of innovation, to be fearless pioneers in their research. She also expressed deep gratitude for the support of the Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Westlake University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, the Seventh Affiliated Hospital of SYSU, and the academy’s generous donors, as well as the unwavering support from government authorities.

Inspiration from Partner Institutions

Representatives from SMART’s partner universities—Tsinghua University and Westlake University—also addressed the students. Professor Tian Xu, Vice President of Westlake University, shared his own academic journey and reflected on the progress of science and society over time. He urged students to stay curious, stay committed, and seek out research areas that truly inspire them. He encouraged them to take bold steps in innovation, contribute to global progress, and harness science and technology to benefit humanity.

Professor Hongwei Wang, Vice President of Tsinghua University, sent his warm wishes via video. He encouraged students to believe in themselves, follow the example of great scientists, innovate bravely, serve the people, work collaboratively, and carry a strong sense of responsibility toward their country. He reminded them to cherish the opportunity to study at SMART and commit themselves to the vision of building a healthier China.

Mentor & Student Voices

Dr. Yanzhuang Wang, senior investigator at SMART and Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, delivered remarks on behalf of the faculty. He shared his personal decision to join SMART—why he chose Shenzhen, chose Guangming District, and chose to be part of this ambitious initiative. Dr. Wang passed on a symbolic "key to research": curiosity. He encouraged students to stay curious about the unknown and to use science to unlock the mysteries of life.

Following this, student representative Huizhen Lin took the stage. She shared her excitement for the journey ahead, expressing her determination to make the most of her time at SMART and to grow into a future scientist with both creativity and scientific integrity.

A Shared Milestone

Leaders from city- and district-level government departments joined faculty and students to witness this historic moment. Representatives from Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, and the Seventh Affiliated Hospital of SYSU, along with donors and supporters, were also present.

A special highlight of the ceremony was the drawing of two lucky students who each received a signed book of The Human Touch in Medicine—a meaningful gift that symbolizes the hopes and expectations of one generation of scientists for the next.

Looking Ahead

After the ceremony, students wrote down their dreams, goals, and wishes for the future on message cards, hanging them on the “Wall of Aspirations” at the academy entrance. The event concluded with a campus tour, where students and guests explored the research facilities at Weiguang Life Science Park and experienced firsthand the vibrant, cutting-edge academic environment of SMART.

With this inspiring beginning, the SMARTers have officially embarked on their journey. We look forward to witnessing their growth, discoveries, and the bright future they will help shape.