On June 2th, the General Party Branch of the Catalysis and New Materials Research Laboratory held the "Academicians Giving Party Lessons" activity. Academician Tao Zhang was invited to give a special Party lesson report titled "The Development History of the Aerospace Catalysis Team and the Inheritance of the Spirit of Scientists". All Party members, Party - entry activists, key scientific research personnel, and students of the research laboratory participated in the study. The Party lesson was presided over by Xiaodong Wang, the secretary of the General Party Branch.
In his report, Academician Tao Zhang delved into the establishment and growth trajectory of the research laboratory, sharing the journey with all present. He elaborated on the laboratory's distinctive endeavors in responding to national imperatives, bravely shouldering significant responsibilities, and making substantial contributions to China's aerospace industry. Academician Zhang vividly recounted the captivating process of identifying and pioneering the frontier area of basic research in "single-atom catalysis" during the course of applied development research. Additionally, he provided an update on the most recent advancements of the "biomass-based ethylene glycol" process, which has evolved from its inception to a thousand-ton-scale pilot test and is now on the path to industrialization. He inspired young students and key scientific researchers to set their sights high, to be driven by national needs, and to inherit and uphold the aerospace spirit characterized by "rigorousness, meticulousness, reliability, and infallibility." He urged them to conduct scientific research that is both world-class in its innovation and practical in its application, approaching their work with a steadfast and down-to-earth attitude.When confronted with a collection of precious vintage photographs, Academician Tao Zhang displayed an intimate familiarity, as if each photo held a cherished place in his heart. He meticulously detailed the significant contributions made by every senior colleague throughout the laboratory's development. With deep affection, he recalled the numerous instances of guidance and support provided by Mr. Liwu Lin, which had been instrumental in his own growth and the advancement of the research laboratory. Moreover, he generously shared his invaluable experiences in mentoring graduate students with the young mentors in attendance. He called upon everyone to learn from and carry forward the spirit of scientists, to perpetuate the exemplary academic ethos of the research laboratory, to persevere in their efforts, and to strive for even greater accomplishments. Following the meeting, Academician Tao Zhang extended a special invitation to the new members who had joined the laboratory in the past two years for a group photo session. In doing so, he warmly welcomed them and encouraged all to progress and develop together.
Upon hearing the report, the attendees were deeply moved by the arduous challenges faced by their predecessors during the pioneering phase, the elation that accompanied their innovative breakthroughs, and the honor inherent in their dedication. They were in awe of the remarkable achievements of their predecessors and felt a profound sense of pride in being part of such a distinguished collective, with whom they could strive towards common goals. Everyone present was invigorated and inspired. The initiative of inviting an academician within their midst to deliver a Party lesson achieved the anticipated positive outcomes. Subsequently, the trade union branch of the laboratory organized a diverse array of engaging team-building games, further enhancing the sense of unity and camaraderie among the members. (Text by Weizhen Li; Photos by Wansheng Zhang and Rui Zhu)
