11th Academic Exchange Conference for Women Scientists in Plant Biology Held in Xinjiang

The 11th Academic Exchange Conference for Women Scientists in Plant Biology was held from July 22-24 in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, leaving a lasting impact on the vital role of women in driving advancements in plant science and building the Green Silk Road. The three-day event brought together over 130 leading female researchers from more than 50 universities and research institutes across China.

Participants at the conference

Organized by the Women Scientists Branch of the Chinese Society for Plant Biology (CSPB) and the Women Botanists Branch of the Botanical Society of China, the conference was hosted by the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the Botanic Society of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The theme, "Modern Biotechnology Empowering the Building of the Green Silk Road," underscored the crucial role of plant science in sustainable development and ecological conservation.

"China has witnessed remarkable progress in plant sciences over the past decade and female researchers have emerged as an indispensable force," declared XIA Guangmin, Honorary President of the Women Scientists Branch of CSPB and Professor at Shandong University, in her opening remarks. She lauded the dedication and contributions of these scientists across diverse fields, emphasizing their “keen observation, rigorous thinking, and steadfast perseverance.”

Opening remarks by XIA Guangmin

The conference served as a platform for the sharing of cutting-edge research, featuring 28 academic presentations. Scientists explored the latest findings in plant molecular biology, mechanisms of stress resistance, crop domestication, and biodiversity conservation, and their applications in agriculture and land management. Presenters included prominent figures like CAS Academicians CAO Xiaofeng, who discussed "Mechanism of Inheritance of Acquired Traits", and HE Zuhua, who delivered a presentation on Crop Immunity and Broad-Spectrum Disease Resistance. Prof. ZHANG Daoyuan, Deputy Director of XIEG, contributed a report on the Achievements of the Third Xinjiang Scientific Expedition.

CAO Xiaofeng delivers her presentation.

HE Zuhua delivers his presentation.

ZHANG Daoyuan delivers her presentation.

LIU Hongtao, Chair of the Women Scientists Branch of CSPB and professor at Shenzhen University, highlighted the significance of holding the conference in Xinjiang. She stated the conference aimed to foster greater understanding of, and engagement with, the region among women scientists. "We hope these scientists will bring their projects and expertise to Xinjiang in the future, helping research flourish and take root in the region," she said.

Remarks by LIU Hongtao as a moderator

Beyond technical presentations, the conference also prioritized nurturing the next generation of plant scientists. Ten promising young female scientists received the "Outstanding Young Female Scientist Award," demonstrating the commitment to recognizing and supporting early-career researchers.

Award Ceremony

The final day featured an outreach program, themed "Women Scientists’ Tour in Campus” and “Face-to-face Meeting with Women Scientists" at XIEG. Prof. XIA Guangmin discussed "Crop Domestication and Origin of Agriculture", while Prof. GU Hongya from Peking University presented on Gene Flow Driving Biological Evolution. Prof. YANG Shuhua from China Agricultural University addressed the "Molecular Mechanisms of Cold Tolerance and High-Latitude Adaptation in Maize", and Prof. LIU Hongtao discussed “Distinct Functions of Blue Light Receptors in Light and Darkness.” Students from local universities, including Xinjiang University and Xinjiang Agricultural University, actively participated in discussions, raising questions on subjects like career paths and work-life balance.

Women scientists' tour in campus

Face-to-face meeting with women scientists

"The conference highlighted the remarkable achievements of women scientists, and fostered deep integration of industry, academia, and research, carrying significant implications for promoting modern biotechnology in building the Green Silk Road,” stated Dr. Zhang Daoyuan, Deputy Director of XIEG, reflecting on the event's significance.

Established in 2013, the Women Scientists Branch of CSPB has become a pivotal organization supporting women in the field, contributing to the rapid advancement of plant science throughout China. The Academic Exchange Conference for Women Scientists in Plant Biology has attracted nearly 3,000 attendees in total. This conference has reached an additional 30,000 participants nationwide through campus outreach activities across 39 universities, research institutes, and middle schools nationwide.

Contact

LONG Huaping

Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography

E-mail: longhp@ms.xjb.ac.cn

Web: http://english.egi.cas.cn