On August 22, the Shenzhen Medical Academy of Research and Translation (SMART) held a opening ceremony at the Weigang Life Science Park auditorium, officially welcoming the inaugural class of PhD students in the SMART PhD Program. These exceptional scholars are embarking on a new chapter of their academic journey, set within a talent development framework emphasizing a "high starting point, international orientation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and boundary-breaking innovation." Together, they will advance toward groundbreaking achievements in medicine and science.

SMART’s Founding President, Prof. Nieng Yan, delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on the academy’s growth and the dynamic, inspiring spirit of SMART. She encouraged the students to strive for new heights in research and to contribute to a bright future of scientific discovery.

Prof. Nieng Yan extended a warm welcome and sincere congratulations to the incoming students on behalf of SMART, acknowledging their trust and courage. She urged them to take full advantage of the academy’s collaboration with Shenzhen Bay Laboratory. In addition to examining innovative studies in their labs, she motivated them to tackle genuine clinical issues, comprehend public health demands, and take advantage of opportunities while facing challenges in the biomedical sector. Embodying the pioneering ethos of "daring to be the first," Prof. Yan encouraged them to bravely explore the unknown realms of scientific discovery.

Distinguished guests from partnering institutions—Westlake University and Tsinghua University—also addressed the students. Professor Tian Xu, Vice President of Westlake University, shared his academic journey and the progress of society over the years, expressing high hopes for the students. He urged them to remain steadfast and dedicated, just as previous generations had, to discover their true research passions, embrace innovation, and use scientific advancements to create miracles that benefit humanity. Professor Hongwei Wang, Tsinghua University’s Vice President, conveyed his congratulations through a video message. He encouraged students to have confidence in themselves, strive for excellence, and value teamwork and community service. With a heart for their country and a sense of purpose, he called on them to make the most of their learning opportunities at SMART, working tirelessly toward the "Healthy China" strategic vision.

Dr. Yanzhuang Wang, a senior principal investigator both at SZBL and SMART, spoke as a mentor representative. He shared his personal journey of choosing to work in Shenzhen, highlighting his motivation to join SMART. Dr. Wang presented the "key of curiosity" to the students, encouraging them to maintain their wonder about the unknown and to use science to unravel the mysteries of life.

Following his remarks, Huizhen Lin, a representative of the new PhD students, expressed her excitement for the future and commitment to making the most of her time at SMART. She pledged to hone her scientific skills and strive to become an innovative researcher driven by curiosity and a spirit of discovery.

After the ceremony, the new students wrote down their aspirations and dreams on wish cards, which they then hung on the message wall. This symbolic gesture captured their hopes for the future. The event concluded with students and guests touring research facilities, gaining an in-depth appreciation of SMART’s cutting-edge research environment and advanced scientific infrastructure.

The ceremony ended with group photos, commemorating the start of an inspiring academic journey for SMART’s first PhD class.