Q+A: Wang Zhong Lin

Wang Zhong Lin, regents' professor and director of the Georgia Institute of Technology's Center for Nanostructure Characterization.

Wang Zhong Lin, regents' professor and director of the Georgia Institute of Technology's Center for Nanostructure Characterization. He helped found a number of national nanoscience research and education programs and facilities in China.

What were the main factors behind your winning the award?

There are three main reasons that I was honored. First, I have graduated, trained and supervised more than 120 Chinese PhD students, postdoctoral fellows and visiting scientists. This is a great contribution to the training of young scientists. Second, I have collaborated with researchers at more than 15 universities and research institutes in the last 20 years, and we have published close to 100 research papers. Last, I have initiated the first joint PhD program between Georgia Tech and Peking University.

How has your work in China helped develop your career in your native country?

First, my interaction with China has promoted the reputation of Georgia Tech in China, which is very beneficial for Georgia Tech's strategy of globalization. Second, I have been able to attract the very best students to Georgia Tech, which is important for raising the standards of research there. Lastly, the graduate students; postdoctoral fellows and visiting scientists in my group have made an outstanding contribution to our success in science.

What do you feel about the level of research carried out in China compared with other places around the world?

The level of research in China is increasing rapidly, and in some basic research areas China is taking the global leadership. With the continuous and sustainable support of the Chinese government in science and technology, and especially with the fast rising up of many young scientists, China will soon experience a very rapid development in science and engineering.

How do you feel about winning this award?

This is a great endorsement and recognition to my years of collaboration with various universities and research institutes since 1992. I am very pleased to receive this honor.

What has been your most important accomplishment in China?

I think that my most important accomplishments in China are that I have trained and supervised more than 120 Chinese PhD students, postdoctoral fellows and visiting scientists. Most of these people are working in various universities, and some of them are now young stars in various fields.

What plans do you have to carry out work related to China in the next five to 10 years?

As a professor who is specialized in basic research, I will continue the tradition of training young scientists, who are our best products from a university. By providing them with the best education and training both as scientists and as human beings. The future impact will be tremendous.