From May 25 to 26, 2019, the 237^th Shuangqing Forum of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) was held in Shenzhen. The theme of this forum was “Chemistry research in the era of artificial intelligence (AI)”. The forum was co-sponsored by the College of Science, the Office of Research of SUSTech, and organized by the NSFC.

Academician Tang Yong of the Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry (SIOC), and Director Luo Yi of Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Science at the Microscale, and Dr. Li Yongwang, research fellow of the Institute of Coal Chemistry served as the chairman of the forum. More than 40 experts and scholars from CAS, universities or other research institutions attended the forum.

Academician Yang Xueming, Dean of SUSTech’s College of Science, and the Director served on the Chemical Sciences Department of NSFC, Deputy Director Zou Liyao of NSFC’s Office of Technology Policy and Director Zhao Yusheng of the Office of Research gave the opening address. Many senior leaders, experts and scholars from top research institutions, renowned universities, government ministries and companies participated in this important forum.

Director Yang Xueming spoke about the reforms made by the NSFC in China’s scientific and technological development. An interdisciplinary approach is an important direction of reform. He pointed out that the future of chemistry lies in the intersection of chemistry and AI.

Director Zou Liyao pointed out that AI is one of the main features of the fourth industrial revolution. This year’s theme will provide constructive suggestions to the medium and long-term planning of the NSFC in 2021-2035.

Director Zhao Yusheng briefed the audience about the development status of SUSTech and its chemistry disciplines. He added that the Shuangqing Forum promotes interdisciplinary integration and will help China adopt innovative thinking which would improve NSFC’s major policies.

6 keynote reports and 18 thematic reports were presented which encouraged an open targeted academic discussion.

The Shuangqing Forum is a high-level NSFC academic strategy seminar that promotes the development of cutting-edge science that meets the needs of national strategies. The Shuangqing Forum covers plenty of issues including interdisciplinary and comprehensive basic research, major policy issues and management opportunities within the scientific funding system.