Chinese Academy of Sciences holds memorial for physicist Tsung-Dao Lee

The Institute of High Energy Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) held a memorial service on Sunday for Tsung-Dao Lee, the renowned physicist and Nobel laureate. More than 330 academicians, experts, representatives from over 30 universities and research institutions, and individuals from various sectors gathered to honor Lee's legacy.

Wei Zhixiang, deputy director of the CAS Bureau of Frontier Science and Basic Research, highlighted Lee's unwavering support for basic research in China. Lee played a pivotal role in advancing the nation's scientific talent and fostering international collaboration, particularly between China and the United States, through his active participation in China-US academic exchanges.

Gao Yuanning, an academician and dean of the School of Physics at Peking University, acknowledged Lee's visionary contributions to the development of the physics discipline at the university. Lee was instrumental in promoting high-level talent cultivation, interdisciplinary research, and international cooperation in physics and related fields.

Zhou Shangui, director of the Institute of Theoretical Physics at CAS, noted that the institute's growth and success were significantly influenced by Lee's recommendations. His initiatives, such as the establishment of the China-US Physics Examination and Application and the National Natural Science Foundation, were particularly impactful.

Wang Yifang, director of the Institute of High Energy Physics at CAS, reflected on Lee's six-decade academic career and his remarkable contributions to China's high-energy physics, science education, and talent development.

"Remembering Lee is our greatest motivation to continue striving. The best way to honor him is by carrying forward his scientific spirit and continuing his unfinished work," Wang said.

Lee passed away at his home in San Francisco on Aug 4, 2024. He was 97.