The 2024 Excellence Program for Middle School Students was held during this year’s Chinese Biophysics Congress. The event, which took place on July 25, was streamed live on the official platform of the Biophysical Society of China (BSC), attracting 196,000 viewers. 

Initiated by the BSC and Zeiss Group, a German optical systems and optoelectronics manufacturer, the excellence program aims to inspire teenagers and nurture their interest in science. Bringing together science prodigies from across China, the event showcased their boundless potential in scientific research and sparked a passion for science in many young minds. 

The program included an interactive Q&A session, which allowed students to engage in direct dialogue with renowned scientists, elevating the academic atmosphere to new heights. The scientists' insightful explanations allowed students to experience the charm and power of science firsthand. 

Wang Hongwei, a professor at Tsinghua University, delivers an academic report on July 25. [Photo/WeChat account: BSC] 

The science popularization report session was one of the highlights of the event. Wang Hongwei, a professor at Tsinghua University, delivered a presentation that unveiled the mysteries of cryo-electron microscopy and explored the microcosm within cells. 

A student engaged in the excellence program presents her scientific project on July 25. [Photo/WeChat account: BSC] 

A student representative offers a presentation during the project defense session on July 25. [Photo/WeChat account: BSC] 

At the event, representatives of the excellence program from various middle schools across China took to the stage to present their scientific projects. Displaying an enthusiasm for science and a fearless spirit of exploration, the students shared their findings and insights. The interactive format encouraged face-to-face exchanges between students and scientists, broadening the students' horizons and deepening their interest in research. 

Officials present certificates to project winners at the excellence program on July 25. [Photo/WeChat account: BSC]

The program concluded with a certificate award ceremony. After intense competition and thorough evaluation, seven research projects emerged as winners, highlighting the talent and dedication of these young scientists.