Peking University

Peking University

Peking University is currently China’s most academically comprehensive and strongest university, with traditional strengths in science, emerging engineering disciplines, social sciences, humanities, and medical sciences.

Peking University (PekingUniversity), founded in 1898, was originally named the Imperial University of Peking. It is the first university established by China’s central government and marks the official beginning of modern universities in China. Its establishment signified the start of modern higher education in China and pioneered the country’s modern academic system. From its inception, Peking University was China’s highest institution of learning and also served as the nation’s top educational administration, exercising the functions of what is now the Ministry of Education and overseeing national education affairs. The university carries on the legacy of China’s millennia-old highest academic institution—the “Imperial College”—and is the modern continuation of that ancient tradition. Since its founding, it has enjoyed an exalted reputation. Some describe its historical status as “inheriting the orthodox legacy of the Imperial College and establishing the ancestral court of modern universities.”

As the center of the New Culture Movement and the birthplace of the May Fourth Movement, as the earliest cradle of Marxism and democratic scientific thought in China, and as the earliest base of Communist activities in China, Peking University has made irreplaceable contributions to national rejuvenation and liberation, national development and construction, and societal advancement and progress. It played a pivotal pioneering role in China’s journey toward modernization. The traditional spirit of patriotism, progress, democracy, and science, along with the academic ethos of diligence, rigor, pragmatism, and innovation, continue to thrive and are passed down through generations here.

In 1917, the renowned educator and democratic revolutionary Cai Yuanpei became president of Peking University. Guided by the principles of “freedom of thought” and “inclusive diversity,” he brought about an intellectual liberation and academic flourishing at the university, ushering in rapid progress. A host of distinguished figures—including Li Dazhao, Mao Zedong, Lu Xun, and Hu Shi—either worked or taught at Peking University.

After the Marco Polo Bridge Incident in 1937, Peking University, together with Tsinghua University and Nankai University, relocated to Changsha and jointly formed the Changsha Temporary University. In early 1938, the temporary university moved to Kunming and was renamed National Southwestern Associated University. The Southwest Associated University brought together the elite from the three institutions and, with its indomitable spirit, sustained the lifeline of Chinese education during the war. After the victory in the War of Resistance, Peking University returned to its original campus and officially reopened in October 1946.

After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, a nationwide restructuring of university departments took place in 1952, transforming Peking University into a comprehensive university focused primarily on teaching and research in the liberal arts and sciences. It has since trained a large number of talented individuals. According to incomplete statistics, nearly 400 academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering are alumni or faculty members of Peking University. Many influential figures in China’s humanities and social sciences also hail from the university, which has produced a significant body of important research findings.

Since the reform and opening-up, Peking University has entered an unprecedented new era of major development and construction and has become one of the two universities prioritized under the national “211 Project.”

On May 4, 1998, during the centennial celebration of Peking University, President - inscribed: “Carry forward Peking University’s fine traditions of patriotism, progress, democracy, and science, and make greater contributions to the rejuvenation of China.” He also delivered a speech at the centennial celebration, calling for “China to have several world-class universities of advanced global standards in order to achieve modernization.” With state support, Peking University promptly launched the “Plan to Build a World-Class University,” opening a new chapter in its history.

On April 3, 2000, Peking University merged with the former Beijing Medical University to form the new Peking University. (The former Beijing Medical University originated as the National Beijing Medical Specialized School, established on October 26, 1912. In the 1930s and 1940s, it was briefly known as Peking University Medical College and rejoined Peking University in July 1946. Following the 1952 national university restructuring, Peking University Medical College separated from the university and became an independent Beijing Medical College. In 1985, it became one of the first medical universities supported under the national “211 Project.”)

Current Status of Peking University

Peking University is located in the western suburbs of Beijing, covering an area of 2,707,853 square meters (4,062 mu). The university currently has 16,073 faculty and staff members and 29,617 students of various types. It offers 199 doctoral programs, 221 master’s programs, 100 undergraduate majors, and 35 postdoctoral research stations covering 139 disciplines. Peking University leads the nation in the number of professors, doctoral supervisors, CAS academicians, key national disciplines, and national key laboratories. The current university president is Professor Min Weifang, and the chancellor is Academician Xu Zhihong.

This is a sacred land. For over a century, it has nurtured generations of China’s finest scholars. Vast knowledge, brilliant intellect, solemn and fearless independent thinking—all combined with a sense of responsibility for the nation, upstanding integrity, and courageous spirit of resistance—create a unique and compelling spiritual charm.

This is a land of freedom. From the late 19th century to the present, the pain and aspirations of Chinese society over more than a hundred years have converged and been expressed here. Generation after generation of Chinese scholars have looked out to the world from this place, spreading the seeds of civilization across this vast land with perseverance, tenacity, and a spirit of near self-sacrifice. Democracy and science have become the immortal soul of this institution.

The university effectively combines the cultivation of high-level professionals needed for socialist modernization with cutting-edge research. While continuing to strengthen and develop foundational disciplines, it focuses on developing applied, interdisciplinary, and emerging disciplines essential for economic development, technological progress, and social advancement. This makes Peking University a new type of comprehensive university encompassing natural sciences, technological sciences, social sciences, humanities, management sciences, educational sciences, linguistic sciences, medical sciences, and emerging engineering sciences, integrating talent cultivation, scientific research, and social services.

The university currently has schools and departments including the School of Mathematical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, School of Marxism, School of Government, School of International Studies, School of Economics, Guanghua School of Management, School of Foreign Languages, School of Law, School of Education, School of Physics, School of Journalism and Communication, Capital Development Research Institute, School of Software and Microelectronics, School of Earth and Space Sciences, School of Continuing Education, School of Applied Arts and Sciences, School of Adult Education, School of Environmental Sciences, School of Engineering, School of Arts, and departments such as the Department of Geophysics, Department of Technical Physics, Department of Electronics, Department of Computer Science and Technology, Department of Geology, Department of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Department of Psychology, Department of Chinese Language and Literature, Department of History, Department of Archaeology, Department of Philosophy (Department of Religious Studies), Department of Information Management, and Department of Sociology. The university offers 96 undergraduate majors, 198 master’s programs, and 174 doctoral programs, with a total of 39,533 students.

Peking University currently has 1,129 professors (including 987 doctoral supervisors) and 1,461 associate professors. Among them are 46 members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 members of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, 8 members of the Third World Academy of Sciences, 11 chief scientists of the “973 Project,” and 51 Changjiang Scholars. The number of academicians, “973 Project” chief scientists, professors, doctoral supervisors, Changjiang Scholars, key national disciplines, and key laboratories at Peking University all rank first among higher education institutions in China.

The Peking University Library houses 5.61 million volumes and is one of the largest and best-stocked university libraries in China. The library complex covers a total area of 62,000 square meters, with over 4,000 reading seats and a total collection capacity of 6.5 million volumes, making it the largest academic library in Asia by capacity. The Sackler Museum of Archaeology and Art at the university is the largest museum among Chinese universities, housing tens of thousands of precious cultural relics that reflect 5,000 years of Chinese civilization.

In recent years, Peking University has vigorously promoted teaching reforms. Following the guideline of “strengthening the foundation, downplaying specialization, teaching students according to their aptitude, and implementing diversified training,” it has revised its teaching plans, enhanced foundational instruction, and updated teaching content. Emphasis is placed on fostering students’ innovation and creativity. In terms of teaching management, a credit system is implemented, the proportion of elective courses is increased, and students are encouraged to take courses across disciplines, pursue minors or second bachelor's degrees. Students who complete required credits ahead of schedule may graduate early, and outstanding graduates are recommended for exemption from entrance exams to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees. Outside of class, the university fosters a rich campus cultural atmosphere, enhances extracurricular learning and practical activities, and cultivates students' sentiments.

The university has also engaged in extensive international exchanges and cooperation, establishing ties with over 200 higher education institutions in more than 40 countries and regions. Students at Peking University will not drop out or have their studies affected due to financial difficulties. To ensure that economically disadvantaged students can successfully complete their education, Peking University has established a “Financial Aid System for Students in Need,” including channels such as student loans, work-study programs, tuition waivers, interest-free loans, temporary hardship subsidies, grants, and scholarships. Student loans and work-study programs serve as the main support methods, while other programs provide supplementary assistance.

Peking University boasts a strong faculty, comprising both eminent scholars and rising academic stars, forming a unique academic landscape. The university has 46 members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and 7 members of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. In the “973 Project,” 11 Peking University professors serve as chief scientists, making it the domestic institution with the most chief scientists and sub-project undertakings in the project. In the fourth batch of the “Changjiang Scholars Incentive Program” announced at the end of 2001, 15 Peking University faculty members were appointed as Changjiang Scholars, with 1 serving as a Distinguished Professor. By the end of 2001, Peking University had 51 Changjiang Scholars. The faculty is growing younger. As of 2001, 58 young scholars at Peking University had received the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, the highest number among Chinese universities. Eight have received the Overseas Young Scholars Collaborative Research Fund. The average age of Peking University professors is 53, and associate professors average 42, with the youngest professor being only 33. There are over 200 professors under the age of 42. Each year, a large number of renowned overseas experts and scholars are invited to teach at Peking University. In 2001 alone, there were 64 long-term foreign teachers and 274 short-term ones, many of whom have taught at world-renowned institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Cambridge. Many world-famous scholars come to Peking University to give lectures each year. In 2001, eight Nobel laureates, including French Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry Jean-Marie Lehn, delivered lectures at the university. In national and municipal teaching achievement award evaluations, Peking University won 1 national special prize, 5 first prizes, 18 second prizes, 31 first prizes in Beijing, and 22 second prizes in Beijing. The number and level of awards rank first among universities, fully reflecting the strength and quality of Peking University’s teaching. In the third “Young Teachers Award” selection by the Ministry of Education, four Peking University faculty members—Chen Dayue, Liu Bin, Liu Yuxin, and Wang Pulü—were honored.

Peking University is an academic sanctuary and the cradle of scientists and scholars. From the proposal of the “New Population Theory” to the first artificial complete synthesis of insulin; from the design of China’s first million-computation electronic digital computer to the revolution in Chinese character information processing and printing; from the translation of the Indian epic “Ramayana” to the study on the stability of differential dynamical systems winning the National Natural Science First Prize—Peking University has forged a path of striving forward. In 2000, the “Changjiang Scholar” research group led by Peng Lianmao at Peking University’s Nanocenter discovered single-walled carbon nanotubes at the 0.33nm level, breaking the theoretical limit set by Japanese scientists. This achievement, along with Peking University’s research on key technologies for national spatial information infrastructure, were both selected as part of the 2000 “Top Ten Scientific and Technological Advances in Higher Education Institutions.” Peking University was the only institution with two achievements selected.

Strengths of Peking University’s Disciplines

Peking University has 98 research institutes, 126 research centers, 2 national-level engineering research centers, 81 key national disciplines, and 15 established national key (specialized) laboratories.

Key National Disciplines (81): Chinese Linguistics and Philology, Chinese Ancient Literature, Chinese Modern and Contemporary Literature, Chinese Classical Philology, Linguistics and Applied Linguistics, Comparative Literature and World Literature, Chinese Philosophy, Foreign Philosophy, Aesthetics, Marxist Philosophy, World History, Chinese Ancient History, Archaeology and Museology, English Language and Literature, Indian Languages and Literatures, Legal Theory, Constitutional Law and Administrative Law, Criminal Law, Economic Law, Political Science Theory, International Politics, Scientific Socialism and the International Communist Movement, Political Economy, National Economics, Sociology, Anthropology, Educational Economics and Management, Library Science, Basic Psychology, Pure Mathematics, Computational Mathematics, Probability Theory and Mathematical Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Theoretical Physics, Particle Physics and Nuclear Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, Optics, Astrophysics, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Physiology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, Physical Geography, Human Geography, Environmental Science, Atmospheric Physics and Atmospheric Environment, Meteorology, Solid Earth Physics, Structural Geology, Solid Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, General Mechanics and Mechanics Foundations, Microelectronics and Solid-State Electronics, Physical Electronics, Communications and Information Systems, Computer Software and Theory, Computer Application Technology, Nuclear Technology and Applications, Immunology, Pathology and Pathophysiology, Internal Medicine (Cardiovascular Diseases, Hematology), Dermatology and Venereology, Pediatrics, Surgery (Orthopedic Surgery, Urology), Stomatology Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacognosy, Pharmacology, Psychiatry and Mental Health, Sports Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ophthalmology, Oncology.

Key National (Specialized) Laboratories (15): Visual and Auditory Information Processing, Protein Engineering and Plant Genetic Engineering, Molecular Dynamics and Stable-State Structure, Membranes and Membrane Engineering, Artificial Microstructures and Mesoscopic Physics, Heavy Rain Measurement and Forecasting, Rare Earth Materials Chemistry and Applications, Turbulence Research, Regional Fiber Optic Communication Networks and New Optical Communication Systems, Text Information Processing, Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, Bio-Organic Molecular Engineering, Quaternary Geochronology, Electron Optics and Electron Microscopy, Micrometer/Nanometer Processing Technology.

Postdoctoral Research Stations (30): Physics, Mechanics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Biology, Astronomy, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Computer Science and Technology, Electronic Science and Technology, Information and Communication Engineering, Nuclear Science and Technology, Environmental Science and Engineering, Philosophy, Theoretical Economics, Applied Economics, Business Administration, Sociology, History, Law, Chinese Language and Literature, Foreign Language and Literature, Basic Medicine, Stomatology, Pharmacy, Biology (Medical School), Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Clinical Medicine.

Peking University is China’s strongest university in science disciplines.

Peking University has produced many outstanding talents, particularly excelling in science and ranking first among Chinese universities. In key indicators such as academicians elected and awards won, Peking University faculty and alumni lead nationwide higher education institutions.

I. Election as Academicians

Between 2001 and 2005, nine professors from Peking University were elected as academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences: Professors Tian Gang and Wang Shikun from the School of Mathematical Sciences, Professors Zhao Guangda and Qin Guogang from the School of Physics, Professor Huang Chunhui from the College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Professor Tu Chuanyi from the School of Earth and Space Sciences, Professor Fang Jingyun from the College of Environmental Sciences, Professor Huang Lin from the College of Engineering, and Professor Tong Tanjun from the Medical School. Additionally, nine Peking University alumni were also elected during the same period: Zhou Youyuan, Wang Chenghao, Ye Zhaohui, Shi Yaolin, Wang Ying, Gao Yuchen, Liu Baoyong, Xia Jianbai, Kuang Yuping, Xie Sishen, Lu Ke, Dai Qizheng, Liu Licheng, Pan Weilian, Qiu Chengtong, Yang Jiachi, and Li Deren. The title of Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences is China’s highest academic honor awarded for outstanding contributions to science and technology, and it is a lifelong distinction.

Between 2001 and 2005, Professor Zhuang Hui from the Peking University Health Science Center and Professor He Xingui, Dean of the School of Information Science, were elected as academicians of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. Another nine Peking University alumni were also elected: Feng Peide, Tang Xican, Sun Chengwei, Gong Zhiben, Li Lianda, Liu Changxiao, Liu Yunjie, Ding Yihui, and Chen Junshi. The title of Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering is China’s highest academic honor awarded for outstanding contributions to engineering technology and management, and it is a lifelong distinction.

Between 2001 and 2005, Professor Chen Jiahua from the School of Physics, Professor Han Qide from the Health Science Center, Professor Wen Lan from the School of Mathematical Sciences, and Professor Justin Yifu Lin from the China Center for Economic Research were elected as academicians of the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World. Another seven Peking University alumni were also elected: Li Guojie, Xu Shaoxi, Ai Guoxiang, Xian Dingchang, Xie Sishen, Xu Zhizhan, and Shi Yaolin. To date, 34 Peking University alumni have been elected as academicians of the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World, accounting for over one-fourth of all mainland Chinese academicians. Academicians of the Academy of Sciences for the Developing World are elected from academies, universities, research institutions in developing countries, as well as scientific organizations in developed countries, and all have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of science in the developing world within their respective fields.

Peking University alumnus Shu Chien was elected as a member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences in 2005, becoming one of only eight scientists in the United States to hold the triple distinction of being a member of the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Engineering, and the Institute of Medicine.

Professor Tian Gang, a faculty member of the School of Mathematical Sciences at Peking University and the Simons Professor in the Department of Mathematics at MIT

was elected as a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2004. Two other scholars from China were also elected that year. This marked the first time since the reform and opening-up era that a mainland Chinese student studying in the U.S. received this honor.

Xu Ronglan, a 1958 alumnus of the Department of Physics at Peking University, was elected as an academician in the Basic Science Section of the International Academy of Astronautics in 2003.

Professor Tsung-Dao Lee, Director of the Beijing Modern Physics Research Center at Peking University and Peking University alumnus, was appointed as a member of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences by Pope John Paul II in 2003. Professor Lee is currently a foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, a member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, a member of the Accademia dei Lincei in Italy, and a member of the Academia Sinica in Taiwan.

Peking University alumni Hou Chaohuan, Wang Deliang, and Jin Yaqiu were elected as Fellows of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE Fellows).

Peking University alumni Yang Weitao (Chemistry '82), Li Dongqi (Physics '85), Shen Qun (Physics '81), Zeng Xiaocheng ('84), and Li Hui (Physics '90) were elected as Fellows of the American Physical Society (American Physical Society Fellows). A total of 12 Peking University alumni have received this honor, the most among graduates of any university on the Chinese mainland.

Professor Yu Tongxi, a 1964 alumnus of Peking University and Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, was elected as a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (UK) in 2003, in recognition of his significant contributions to the field of mechanical engineering.

Wang Zhiyuan, a 1982 alumnus of the Department of Chemistry at Peking University and a professor at Carleton University in Canada, was elected as a Fellow of the Chemical Institute of Canada in 2003.

Xie Xiaoliang, a 1984 alumnus of the Department of Chemistry at Peking University, was elected as a Fellow of the Biophysical Society in 2005.

Peking University alumni Xie Xiaoliang (Chemistry '84) and Zhang Youxue (Geology '82) were elected as Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) in 2005.

Song Feijun, a 1966 alumnus of the Department of Physics at Peking University, was elected as a Fellow and Senior Member of the International Society for Optics and Photonics (SPIE) in 2005.

II. Domestic Awards

In 2001, Academician Wang Xuan from the Institute of Computer Science and Technology at Peking University (graduated from the Department of Computational Mathematics, Peking University, in 1958) and Academician Huang Kun from the Department of Physics (1945 master's graduate) were awarded the State Preeminent Science and Technology Award. In 2003, Academician Liu Dongsheng, a 1942 alumnus of the Department of Geology from the Southwest Associated University, received the award, followed by Academician Ye Duzheng, a 1940 alumnus of the Southwest Associated University, in 2005. Including Academician Wu Wenjun (taught at Peking University from 1951 to 1952), who won in 2000, Peking University alumni have now received the State Preeminent Science and Technology Award five times (out of a total of nine recipients).

In 2003, Professor Shu Degan from Northwest University, a 1969 alumnus of the Department of Geological and Geographic Sciences at Peking University, shared the First Class Prize of the National Natural Science Award with two other collaborators. Only two First Class Prizes of the National Natural Science Award were awarded between 2001 and 2005.

In 2005, Zong Baoning, a 1985 alumnus of the Department of Technical Physics at Peking University and Vice Chief Engineer at the Research Institute of Petroleum Processing, led the team that won the First Class Prize of the National Award for Technological Invention. Only three First Class Prizes of the National Award for Technological Invention were awarded between 2001 and 2005.

In 2005, Academician Xu Guangxian from the College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering at Peking University was awarded the Ho Leung Ho Lee Prize for Scientific and Technological Achievement, becoming the second scientist from Peking University to receive this honor (only six universities nationwide have had recipients). In 2003, Academician Zou Chenglu from the Department of Chemistry (1945 alumnus) and Academician Wu Zhengyi (who taught at the Southwest Associated University) were awarded the “Ho Leung Ho Lee Foundation Prize for Scientific and Technological Achievement.” Among the 23 recipients of the Achievement Prize (only four between 2001 and 2005), 12 are Peking University alumni.

Between 2001 and 2005, ten professors from Peking University received the Ho Leung Ho Lee Prize for Scientific and Technological Progress: Professors Duan Xuefu and Chen Jiahua from the School of Mathematical Sciences, Professors Gan Zixia, Yang Yingchang, and Zhao Bolin from the School of Physics, Professors Zhang Pang and Huang Chunhui from the College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Professor Tu Chuanyi from the School of Earth and Space Sciences, Professor Wang Yangyuan from the School of Information Science, and Professor Feng Chuanhan from the Health Science Center. To date, 37 professors from Peking University have received this honor, far leading among universities nationwide. During the same period, 26 alumni also received the Ho Leung Ho Lee Prize for Scientific and Technological Progress: Wei Baowen (Physics '57), Li Zechun (Geophysics '65 graduate student), Yang Qi (Geology '46 master's), Gu Fangzhou (Medical School '50), Zhang Renhe (Physics '58), Xian Dingchang (Technical Physics '56), Wang Shiji (Technical Physics '56), Hui Yongzheng (Chemistry '62), Ding Yihui (Geophysics '63), Dai Ruowei (Mathematics and Mechanics '55), Wang Naiyan (Technical Physics '56), Xiong Darun (Geophysics '62), Xiao Xuchang (Geology '52), -chang (Chemistry '49), Cao Xueyi (graduated from the Preventive Medicine Department of the Health Science Center), Zhong Nanshan (Medical School '60), Cheng Gengdong (Mathematics and Mechanics '64), Yang Guozhen (Physics '62), Zhang Huanqiao (Physics '56), Chen Qingyun (Chemistry '52), Bai Chunli (Chemistry '78), Xu Zhiqin (Geological and Geographic Sciences '64), Tang Xican (Biology '57), Liu Yingming (Mathematics and Mechanics '63), Xia Jianbai (Physics '65 graduate student), and Du Qinghua (former Peking University faculty, transferred out in 1952).

In 2002, Peking University alumnus Zhu Jianshi (Mathematics and Mechanics '58) received the Fourth Guanghua Engineering Science and Technology Award. Alumni Fan Dianyuan ('62) and Zhong Nanshan (Medical School '60) received the Fifth Guanghua Engineering Science and Technology Award in 2004. Managed and hosted by the Chinese Academy of Engineering, the Guanghua Engineering Science and Technology Award is the highest honor in China’s engineering science and technology community. Prior to this, Peking University alumni Zhang Zonghu (Geology '48), Wang Shouyun (Mathematics and Mechanics '60), and Jin Guofan (College of Engineering '50) had also received this award.

In 2002, Academician Jiang Boju from the School of Mathematical Sciences at Peking University (Mathematics and Mechanics '57) received the Fifth Hua Luogeng Mathematics Prize. In 2005, Peking University alumnus Professor Jiang Lishang (Mathematics and Mechanics '57) received the Seventh Hua Luogeng Mathematics Prize. The Hua Luogeng Mathematics Prize is jointly established by the Chinese Mathematical Society and Hunan Education Publishing House to commemorate the famous mathematician Hua Luogeng, rewarding and encouraging Chinese mathematicians who have made outstanding contributions to the development of mathematics in China. Among the winners of this prize since 1992, five are from Peking University, the most among all universities.

In 2003 and 2005, researchers Gong Fuzhou (conducted postdoctoral research at the School of Mathematical Sciences from 1995 to 1997) and Duan Haibao (Ph.D. from Peking University in 1987), both from the Institute of Mathematics and Systems Science at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Peking University alumni, respectively, received the Ninth and Tenth “Chern Prize in Mathematics.” This prize aims to reward Chinese middle-aged and young mathematicians who have achieved outstanding results in the field of mathematics. Among the 20 middle-aged and young mathematicians who have received this prize since 1986, eight are Peking University alumni, the most among all universities.

In 2003, Tang Tao, a 1984 alumnus of the Computational Mathematics program at Peking University and Chair Professor in the Department of Mathematics at Hong Kong Baptist University, received the Feng Kang Prize for Scientific Computing. Established in 1995, the Feng Kang Prize for Scientific Computing honors young Chinese mathematicians at home and abroad who have made outstanding contributions in the field of scientific computing. Awarded biennially with a prize of 15,000 yuan, five of the 11 recipients to date are Peking University alumni, the most among all universities.

In 2002–2003, Professor Ma Boyuan from the School of Physics at Peking University (Ph.D. in Physics '89) received the Zhou Peiyuan Physics Prize. Peking University alumni Xie Sishen (Physics '65) and Wang Enge (Ph.D. in Physics '90) from the Institute of Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences received the Zhou Peiyuan Physics Prize in 2000–2001 and 2004–2005, respectively. Five of the six recipients of this award to date are Peking University graduates. In 2002, Professor Huang Yongnian from the College of Engineering at Peking University (Mathematics and Mechanics '63, graduate student '66) received the Third Zhou Peiyuan Mechanics Prize, becoming the third recipient of the award. The Zhou Peiyuan Physics Prize and Mechanics Prize are awarded biennially by the Zhou Peiyuan Foundation, typically recognizing one individual or project per session.

In 2000–2001, Professor Qin Guogang from the School of Physics at Peking University received the Ye Qisun Physics Prize, Professor Gong Qihuang received the Rao Yutai Physics Prize in 2004–2005, and Peking University alumnus Shui Yong’an (Physics '53) received the Rao Yutai Physics Prize in 2000–2001.

Wang Dingsheng (Physics '52) received the Ye Qisun Physics Prize in 2000–2001, and Ma Zhongqi (Physics graduate student '64) received the Wang Ganchang Physics Prize in 2004. The Chinese Physical Society’s Hu Gangfu, Rao Yutai, Ye Qisun, Wu Youxun, and Wang Ganchang Physics Prizes were awarded three times between 2001 and 2005, with 14 prizes conferred.

Professor Xi Zhenfeng, Dean of Peking University’s College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, was awarded the "Chinese Chemical Society–BASF Youth Innovation Award in Knowledge Creation" for the 2003–2004 term and the First "Huang Yaotsung Award for Metal-Organic Chemistry" by the Chinese Chemical Society—the highest honor in China’s field of metal-organic chemistry—in 2004.

Professors He Guoqi and Zheng Yadong from Peking University’s School of Earth and Space Sciences won the "Teachers’ Award" of the Seventh (2001) and Ninth (2005) Li Siguang Geological Science Awards, respectively. Alumni Ye Lianjun, Yang Qi, and Academician Shi Yaolin also received the Li Siguang Geological Science Award’s Honorary Award. As China’s top award in geology, the Honorary Award has only been granted to eight individuals over its three awarding ceremonies.

Dr. Wang Jinsong from Peking University was honored with the 2005 Zhao Jiuzhang Award for Outstanding Young and Middle-aged Scientists. This award specifically recognizes scientific professionals under 45 who have made contributions to fundamental research, applied basic research, and development research in atmospheric physics, geophysics, space exploration, and space physics.

Researcher Tang Zhi from Peking University’s Institute of Computer Science received the Special Prize at the First "China Invention Association Invention Entrepreneurship Award," along with the honorary title of "Contemporary Inventor." The "Invention Entrepreneurship Award," approved by China’s Ministry of Science and Technology and established by the China Invention Association, is the first national-level top prize for inventors and the only one authorized by the National Awards Office this year. A total of ten individuals received the Special Prize this year.

Professors Huang Liaoyu from Peking University’s School of Foreign Languages and the late Tian Dewang were awarded the Literary Translation Prize at the 2005 Third Lu Xun Literature Awards. Organized by the China Writers Association, the Lu Xun Literature Award is a national literary honor. Professor Huang Liaoyu (Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. from Peking University) is also the eighth alumnus of our university to receive this award.

Alumnus Liu Guoguang (graduated from the Department of Economics at Southwest Associated University in 1946) received the First "Outstanding Contribution Award" in Chinese Economics for 2005. Established jointly by the China Macroeconomic Society and the China Society of Economic Reform, the China Economics Award aims to recognize Chinese scholars who have made outstanding contributions in economic theory, policy, and research methodology. The inaugural award focused on economists since the Third Plenary Session of the 11th CPC Central Committee in December 1978, who have successfully integrated economic principles with China’s realities and made significant contributions to national development and reform policies.

Professors Zhang Shouwen and Chen Ruihua from Peking University were successively selected as two of China’s Top Ten Outstanding Young and Middle-aged Jurists for 2002 and 2004. Also elected were six alumni: Lü Zhongmei (Class of ’84), Yuan Shuhong (Ph.D. in Law), Cai Dingjian (Ph.D. in Law), Jing Hanchao (LL.M., Class of ’96), Ma Huaiwei (Class of ’88, Law Department), and Mo Jihong (Class of ’86, Law Department). To date, a total of 12 alumni have received this title across all editions of the Top Ten Young Jurists selection.

III. International Awards / Honors

Professor Hou Renzhi from Peking University, an academician, was awarded the "Chairman’s Award of the Committee for Research and Exploration" by the National Geographic Society of the United States in 2001. The National Geographic Society is the world’s largest non-profit scientific and educational institution. The Chairman’s Award is given to National Geographic Society fund recipients who have brought new knowledge to the world and made outstanding contributions. Academician Hou Renzhi has long been engaged in research on urban historical geography, desert environmental changes, and historical geography theory, and is recognized as a titan in China’s field of historical geography.

Professor Jin Dinghan (Class of ’55, Department of Oriental Languages) from Peking University’s School of Foreign Languages received the George Grierson Award in 2001, personally conferred by Indian President K. R. Narayanan. This award represents the highest achievement in Hindi studies. Professor Jin Dinghan was among the first generation of Hindi scholars trained in China. His major works and translations include the Hindi–Chinese Dictionary and the Hindi–Chinese Idiom Dictionary. His translation of the Ramcharitmanas introduced this monumental work—combining epic, philosophy, and religious scripture and the most influential text in Indian literary history—to Chinese readers for the first time. Professor Jin was also awarded the World Hindi Honor Award by Indian President Sharma in 1993, and the Central Institute of Hindi Language in India praised him as one of the most influential scholars in the global Hindi research community today.

Academician Wang Zhongcheng, a 1950 alumnus of Peking University’s Medical School, Director of the Beijing Institute of Neurosurgery at the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Honorary President of Beijing Tiantan Hospital, received the "Highest Honor Medal" at the 12th World Congress of Neurological Surgeons in 2001. This is the highest award in the field of neurosurgery worldwide, and he remains the only Chinese neurosurgeon to have received this honor to date.

Academician Bai Chunli, a 1978 alumnus of Peking University’s Department of Chemistry, Executive Vice President of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Director of the National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, was awarded the 2001 "International Medal" by the headquarters of the International Council of Chemical Associations in recognition of his outstanding contributions to nanoscience and his leadership role in international scientific and technological cooperation and exchange. Academician Bai is the second Chinese scientist to receive this award, following Chinese chemist Hou Debang, who was named an Honorary Member of the society in 1943.

Academician Liu Dongsheng (Class of ’42, Department of Geology), an alumnus of Peking University, received the 2002 Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement, which includes a gold medal and a cash prize of 200,000 USD. The Tyler Prize is the highest honor in the field of environmental science and is often referred to as the "Nobel Prize of Environmental Science."

Professor Cai Hua from Peking University’s Department of Anthropology was awarded the Gold Prize of the 2002 Francophonie Grand Prize by the French Academy of Sciences in recognition of his outstanding achievements in anthropology. The Francophonie Grand Prize is an accolade established jointly by francophone countries such as France, Canada, and Morocco to honor scholars who use French as their working language and have made exceptional academic contributions. Professor Cai Hua is the first Chinese to receive this award.

The Qijiang Park in Zhongshan, designed under the direction of Professor Yu Kongjian from Peking University’s College of Landscape Architecture, won the Design Honor Award—the highest annual landscape design award in the United States—for 2002 from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). It also received the 2003 China Architectural Art Award for Excellence in Urban Environmental Art (Public Environment Category) and the 2004 Comprehensive Gold Award for Excellent Modern Chinese Ethnic Architecture, jointly issued by the China Federation of Industry and Commerce Real Estate Chamber of Commerce and the China National Architecture Research Society.

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