On 18 November 2025, Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) marked its 20th anniversary with a special guest dialogue hosted by the Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Research and Application for Data Science (hereinafter “the Key Lab”). The event brought together three internationally renowned scientists—Professor Joachim Frank, recipient of the 2017 Nobel Prize in Chemistry; Professor Dan Shechtman, recipient of the 2011 Nobel Prize in Chemistry; and Professor Eric Westhof, member of both the French Academy of Sciences and the German National Academy of Sciences—to engage in an in-depth conversation with 13 student representatives from the Department of Life Sciences.

Professor Pan Jianxin, BNBU Vice President (Research and Development) and Director of the Key Lab, attended the event alongside Professor Ye Huajun, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), and Professor Ivan Deng, Associate Dean of FST. Several other Key Lab members were also present. Before the dialogue began, Professor Pan delivered welcoming remarks, expressing sincere appreciation for the distinguished guests’ visit and encouraging students to make the most of this rare opportunity to learn from world-class scientists. The session was moderated by Professor Xu Baojun, Head of the Department of Life Sciences and member of the Key Lab Management Committee.

The dialogue adopted an open-discussion format, allowing students to raise questions related to scientific research and academic development. The atmosphere was lively and engaging, with laughter and active interactions flowing naturally throughout the session.

During the discussion, one student asked Professor Westhof about the potential role of artificial intelligence in RNA structure prediction. Professor Westhof noted that current AI implicit-learning models still fall short of achieving high-accuracy structural predictions. He explained that time-resolved cryo-electron microscopy can capture intermediate structural states of RNA during function, providing valuable constraints for AI training. He emphasized that integrating experimental data with AI methodologies will play a crucial role in advancing RNA structural and functional studies.

Professor Eric Westhof speaking during the session

Another student shared concerns about navigating research in the interdisciplinary space between biology and pharmaceutical sciences. Professor Frank responded by recounting his own career path—beginning in physics and microscopy before eventually venturing into ribosome structural studies. He encouraged students not to prematurely limit themselves, highlighting that interdisciplinary exploration is not only possible but often fruitful when guided by genuine curiosity.

Professor Joachim Frank (second from right) responding to a student’s question

When asked about balancing scientific research with everyday life, Professor Shechtman reflected on his decades-long academic journey. He shared that although research has long been his passion, such commitment does not imply an unending workload. “Just as one cannot play all the time, one cannot work all the time,” he remarked. He added that work should enrich one’s life, not become its sole purpose, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy balance.

Professor Dan Shechtman sharing his views during the dialogue

The session concluded with warm exchanges and a group photo of the three distinguished guests with BNBU faculty and students. The event not only deepened students’ understanding of cutting-edge scientific research but also offered valuable insights into academic growth, interdisciplinary exploration, and life choices. It injected renewed vitality into BNBU’s vibrant academic atmosphere on this milestone anniversary.

Group photo of the distinguished guests with BNBU faculty and students

From the Department of Life Sciences