The Institute of Applied Ecology (IAE) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences held a strategic seminar on emerging disciplines on July 9th, 2024, to strengthen its academic framework and foster new growth areas. The event was part of the institute’s 70th-anniversary celebrations.

The seminar featured prominent figures such as Academicians LI Tianlai and ZHU Jiaojun, along with experts from various research institutions. Over 70 participants, including researchers and administrative leaders, attended the event, which was inaugurated by SUN Tao, Head of the Science and Technology Division of IAE.

In his opening remarks, IAE Director ZHU Jiaojun emphasized the pivotal role of disciplinary development in the institute's sustainable growth, talent cultivation, and major scientific achievements. He highlighted the role of emerging disciplines in driving innovation and enhancing fundamental research.

The seminar included detailed presentations on topics such as climate-smart forestry, trace element ecology, integrated biodiversity research, and mycorrhiza-driven afforestation. These reports, presented by leading researchers, covered research backgrounds, development trends, challenges, and future goals.

Academician LI Tianlai chaired the discussion sessions, where participants provided valuable insights on the positioning of emerging disciplines, scientific problem-solving, and talent cultivation. In his concluding remarks, LI stressed the need for a strategic approach to nurturing emerging disciplines and offered recommendations for the institute's long-term growth.