Nearly 1,000 scientists, scholars, and students from around the world have gathered in Beijing for the 2025 International Congress of Basic Science (ICBS), which kicked off on Sunday. The two-week event aims to explore the frontiers of fundamental research in mathematics, physics, and information science and engineering.
The congress features an impressive lineup of esteemed speakers, including four Fields Medalists, three Nobel Laureates, and two Turing Award winners. Among them are renowned mathematicians Shing-Tung Yau and Andrew Chi-Chih Yao.
During the opening ceremony at the China National Convention Center, six distinguished scientists—Samuel C. C. Ting, Steven Chu, David Gross, Robert Tarjan, Shigefumi Mori, and George Lusztig—were honored with the 2025 Basic Science Lifetime Award. This prestigious award recognizes their enduring impact on the field of fundamental science.
ICBS President and Fields Medalist Shing-Tung Yau highlighted recent breakthroughs in mathematics, physics, and information science. He expressed optimism about a new era driven by theoretical advancements and technological innovations.
“Progress in basic science is not only vital for technological innovation but serves as the core engine driving the continuous evolution of human civilization,” Yau noted. He emphasized the importance of enhancing international cooperation in science and fostering mutual exchange and trust.
Yau expressed hope that the congress will establish an open and inclusive international platform for deeper academic exchange and collaboration, jointly advancing modern science and technology.
Initiated by Shing-Tung Yau in 2023, the ICBS is held annually under the theme “Advancing Science for Humanity.” This year’s congress will host more than 500 academic sessions, including plenary talks, basic science lectures, and satellite conferences. Leading international scientists will deliver keynote lectures on basic and frontier sciences, sharing the latest breakthroughs and promoting interdisciplinary innovation.
