On July 2, the First International Conference on Nano Energy and Technology (ICNEAT-2024) concluded at Guangdong Technion - Israel Institute of Technology (GTIIT). Over 200 experts and scholars from 14 countries and regions gathered to discuss the cutting-edge research results in nano energy.

This academic feast, packed with valuable insights, not only showcased GTIIT's capability in hosting high-level and high-standard academic conferences, but also revealed its open and inclusive academic environment, earning unanimous praise from all attending guests.

Giant partnership between academia and industry

The conference built a bridge between academia and industry. Representatives from more than 80 research institutes and over 10 enterprises gathered to give more than 100 academic lectures on advanced topics related to nano and technology.

Prof. Yao Xi, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Member of the American Academy of Engineering, and a professor at Tongji University, highly praised the conference. "GTIIT has given full play to the advantages of Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, and has carried out very distinctive international scientific and technological exchange activities. I hope that this conference can become a fresh start toward stronger growth."

Prof. Tian Bobo from East China Normal University lauded the conference. "Those who came to the conference are from universities, research institutes, and enterprises. This conference brings us together to discuss new materials and other research frontiers, to understand the industrialization needs of enterprises and to promote scientific research."

One enterprise representative from Huawei believed that the conference connected university teachers, device companies, and application companies, achieving end-to-end interconnection. "This conference showed the openness and technical strength of the Technion, and we are looking forward to the next conference."

Prof. Ruyan Guo from the University of Texas noted, "this conference had rich technological insights and received much positive appreciation. The conference chair meticulously planned it and the team collaborated wholeheartedly. Congratulations on the success!"

Cross-disciplinary approach fosters creativity

During the conference, the guests engaged in thought-provoking discussions, collectively exploring the development of new energy technologies and eagerly anticipating future gatherings.

"I believe that the ICNEAT-2024, hosted by GTIIT, has played a crucial role in advancing scientific exploration and facilitating international academic exchanges," remarked Zi-Kui LIU, the Dorothy Pate Enright Professor of Materials Science and Engineering Department at Pennsylvania State University. "Challenges in cutting-edge technology often involve interdisciplinary complexities, resembling a 'big elephant' that requires a multidimensional approach to see the whole. Therefore, exchanges across various fields are essential. Bringing together experts and scholars from different domains allows for a diverse range of perspectives and methodologies, enabling a holistic view of this 'elephant'."

"With diverse contents closely aligned with the forefront of various fields, this conference had provided a valuable platform for young scholars to engage in profound discussions with top global experts, significantly broadening our horizons," said Prof. Shi Xiaoming from University of Science and Technology Beijing. "I hope impactful events like this can be held regularly to continuously inspire innovative thinking and drive academic exchanges and technological advancements in the field of nano."

Prof. Joseph Kioseoglou from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki mentioned, "the conference provided a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the field of energy, storage and material technologies. The topics were informative, engaging, and highly relevant to current industry trends. The conference was a valuable and enriching experience. I look forward to attending future events and commend the organizers for their efforts in delivering a high-quality conference on Nano Energy and Technology."

"I truly enjoyed the conference. The talks I heard were of high quality from good experts. In the future, it may be valuable to include talks on more diverse topics to reach a broader audience." Prof. Sutka from Riga Technical University said.

Prof. Huang Cheng of Soochow University remarked that this conference was on par with meetings at the academician level. "The conference is excellent. Several friends of me, who are researching batteries, said this conference was different from previous domestic ones they had attended and had unique characteristics and substantial discussions on domestic and international research. Very worthwhile. We should continue to hold it!"

International education boosts GTIIT's talent cultivation

The three-day academic event took place on the beautiful GTIIT campus. As a hub of education and innovation in northwestern and eastern Guangdong, GTIIT left a profound impression on the attending guests with its high-quality educational resources integrated from the Technion.

Prof. Li Hong from the Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, highly praised GTIIT's talent cultivation model. "Its interdisciplinary cooperation and international education model demonstrate a distinct advantage in nurturing high-level talents in science and technology. GTIIT offers dual-degree programs and exchange opportunities to renowned overseas universities, enhancing students' comprehensive skills and innovative abilities through interdisciplinary courses and projects. I believe this will help boost students' overall competitiveness and global vision. Collaboration with the industry brings more research training and practical teaching, while encouraging the students to engage in research projects and corporate internships is conducive to developing their practical skills and research acumen. Through these endeavors, I believe GTIIT will not only secure a place on the international stage but also contribute significantly to scientific and technological advancement."

Facilities at GTIIT were greatly appreciated by Prof. Vinu, a distinguished scientist from the University of Newcastle in Australia. "You have quite impressive set up. Quite impressed with the facilities at the campus and it is good for the families."

Conference Chair, Prof. Daniel Tan from the Materials Science and Engineering Department at GTIIT, said, "Given such positive feedbacks, it appears that hosting the next Conference at GTIIT is the wish of many attendees!"

Text/Photos: GTIIT News & Public Affairs, the Organizer, Dai Li