#China #Beijing #Tsinghua University #International Congress #Fields Medalists

The 2026 International Congress of Basic Science Opens in Beijing

On August 9, 2026, the 2026 International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS 2026) commenced in Beijing, bringing together distinguished scientists from across the globe. Notable attendees included four Fields Medalists: Shing-Tung Yau, Maxim Kontsevich, Martin Hairer, and Caucher Birkar, as well as Turing Award winner Robert Tarjan. The event witnessed participation from over 400 renowned scholars and 800 researchers and students, representing more than 30 countries and regions. This congress serves as a critical platform for discussion and collaboration in fundamental scientific research, especially in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).

Li Luming, the president of Tsinghua University, welcomed both Chinese and international scientists, emphasizing the essential role that leading academic institutions like Tsinghua play in furthering fundamental research. He noted the university's commitment to deepening its investment in core disciplines, which includes attracting world-class talent and leveraging AI to expedite scientific discovery. The future vision for Tsinghua is to enhance its abilities in original innovation and shape the next generation of researchers, thereby contributing significantly to the advancement of global knowledge and civilization.

During his address, ICBS President Yau highlighted the increasing support for basic research in China, evidenced by enhanced funding and strategic policy initiatives that promote talent development and research infrastructure. He pointed out that although AI offers remarkable capabilities in mathematical deduction, it cannot supplant human creativity and intuition. "Major breakthroughs in basic science often arise at the crossroads of various disciplines," he stated, encouraging scientists to explore uncharted territories.

The congress also saw the presentation of significant awards. The inaugural ICBS Medal was awarded to nine distinguished scientists for their achievements across multiple fields, including mathematics, physics, and engineering. Among the recipients were Claire Voisin, Shouwu Zhang, and Xiaowei Zhuang, with a commendable inclusion of four female awardees.

Moreover, the Frontiers of Science Awards recognized 111 impactful research papers hailing from over 20 different countries and regions. Tsinhua University was prominently featured, with two papers authored by its scholars, further illustrating the university's vital role in cutting-edge research areas such as geometric analysis and quantum theory.

As the congress unfolds, the collective enthusiasm for collaboration and innovation within the scientific community remains palpable. The ICBS 2026 stands as a testament to the shared commitment toward the pursuit of knowledge and the development of a scientific framework that transcends geographical and disciplinary boundaries. The event not only spotlights remarkable contributions from experts but also paves the way for future discovery in the realms of science and technology.

In summary, the 2026 International Congress of Basic Science has emerged as a pivotal event in strengthening global scientific collaboration, centering on the integration of AI in research and honoring the significant contributions made to the advancement of fundamental science. The discussions and collaborations fostered at this congress could very well shape the trajectory of scientific exploration in the coming years.