Wan Gang, former president of Tongji University and China's new minister of science and technology, is a devoted scientist, caring mentor and gifted intellectual in the eyes of his students and colleagues.

"He is a conscientious scientist whose goal is to improve people's lives through technology. I have deep respect for Wan," said Zheng Hongbo, dean of the Tongji's School of Ocean and Earth Science.

Zheng said Wan took an early and active interest in global warming and began studying clean energy and environmentally-friendly cars long before most Chinese scientists.

Wang Xiaohui, a well-known photographer and former colleague of Wan, remembered first learning about Wan from friends while studying in Germany, where Wan spent 10 years as a senior manager with Audi, the German automaker.

"They said I must get to know Wan Gang, because we were both graduates from Tongji University. His achievements in Germany made him famous among my German friends," Wang said.

"We finally had the chance to meet at the German Consul-General in Shanghai. In our first chat, Wan's intellect impressed me. I couldn't tell what major he was because he has a profound knowledge of both arts and economics," she said.

Wan encouraged Wang to establish a college that combined arts and technology.

Wang went on to establish the College of New Media, where she became a professor. Wan continued to provide his insight.

"He believes that combining arts and high-technology will get students better prepared for future jobs and consequently promote the development of the society," Wang said.

Wang remembered a German television interview when Wan displayed his varied intellect. In the interview, he spoke about the impact of automobiles on urban development.

"His fluent German and English and quick wit surprised the German audience," Wang said.