125 scientific problems released to mark university’s 125th anniversary

Can 4 kilograms of DNA contain the whole world's data? Can a computer brain’s interactive research outperform Elon Musk’s? Is there a chance that factory exhaust and automobile exhaust could become a power source in the future?

These questions are among the 125 major scientific problems Tianjin University, the first modern university in China, released on September 28 for future research. It did so as a special activity to mark its 125th anniversary on October 2.

Focusing on the major national strategic demands and the world's scientific and technological development frontiers, the major scientific issues released were selected by experts after many rounds of evaluation and discussion. They focus on health care, environmental science and governance, energy materials, artificial intelligence, manufacturing and construction, and other cutting edge areas. Academician Chen Yushu, Yu Yixin, Liu Congqiang, and Gu Xiaosong, who are all TJU professors, together with Academician Tu hailing, a TJU alumnus, attended the unveiling ceremony.

“These scientific issues we release today are proposed to meet urgent national demands. For example, brain computer interaction technology is a strategic technology highland that countries all over the world are competing for. We have developed the world's first brain computer chip, and we are racing against Musk. Another example is DNA storage, which is a subversive storage technology. In theory, a few kilograms of DNA can hold the world's data. Google has started researching it. With a synthetic biology research team at the world’s frontline, we hope to take the lead in DNA storage technology. In addition, the underwater glider “Petrel”, developed by Tianjin University, which has set world records in diving depth and mileage, will dive deeper into the sea and contribute more to the development of China's marine resources”, Tianjin University’s vice president Gong Jinlong said at the meeting, “The release of these issues is not only a special gift to all scientific researchers at TJU in honor of the university’s birthday, but also lists goal they have set for themselves.”

“Innovation is the key to development. By raising these scientific problems, we hope to cultivate and gather some great minds and work together towards a bright future,” said Li Jiajun, Party Secretary of Tianjin University, at the release ceremony.