MIAO Wei, director of IHB, delivered a comprehensive summary of IHB's 2024 progress. (Credit: IHB)

On January 22, 2025, the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences  hosted its 2024 Annual Summary and Awards Ceremony, followed by a New Year celebration for 2025. The event brought together over 300 attendees, including distinguished academicians, institute leaders, and representatives from current and retired staff, as well as graduate students. Together, they reflected on the achievements of 2024 and looked ahead to the goals of 2025. 

MIAO Wei, director of IHB, delivered a comprehensive summary of IHB's 2024 progress, highlighting advancements in institutional reforms, key scientific breakthroughs, and improvements in platform construction and management efficiency. He also shared the key priorities and directives outlined at the CAS 2025 Annual Work Conference. 

XIE Shouqi announced the CAS's decision to award the "2024 CAS Annual Figures and Teams" honors. Director Miao presented the "2024 CAS Touching Figure of the Year" award to Prof. CAO Wenxuan, a CAS member. The ceremony also recognized outstanding teams and individuals for their contributions in 2024, with Prof. Gui Jianfang and other leaders presenting awards to top-performing research centers, administrative departments, and individuals. 

Following the awards, the New Year celebration began with a lively program divided into four thematic segments. The first segment celebrated patriotism and enduring spirit, featuring graceful dances and heartfelt choir performances by retired staff, as well as moving musical tributes to the nation by various research teams.

The second segment highlighted themes of perseverance and ambition, with inspiring choir performances, a powerful solo act, and an energetic group performance. A unique blend of violin, singing, and recitation captivated the audience, showcasing creativity and passion.

The third segment reflected on cherished memories and traditions, combining powerful vocals, traditional instruments, and dynamic dance moves. Graduate students and faculty presented a medley of songs, while a heartfelt solo performance and a humorous skit emphasizing research integrity added both emotion and laughter to the event. 

The final segment looked to the future with uplifting choir performances and a witty, engaging act that brought the celebration to a climax. The event concluded with a grand finale led by the institute’s leadership, leaving the audience inspired and united as they welcomed the new year.

The event also included interactive games and a special birthday surprise for three staff members, adding warmth and joy to the occasion. The celebration not only marked a festive farewell to 2024 but also showcased the unity, positivity, and pioneering spirit of the IHB community. As the Year of the Dragon approaches, the institute is poised to embrace new challenges and opportunities, upholding its tradition of innovation, scientific rigor, collaboration, and perseverance as it approaches its 95th anniversary.

MIAO Wei (L), director of IHB, presented the "2024 CAS Touching Figure of the Year" award to Prof. CAO Wenxuan, a CAS member. (Credit: IHB)

Outstanding teams (Credit: IHB)

Outstanding teams (Credit: IHB)

A special birthday surprise for three staff members. (Credit: IHB)

Performance by retired staff (Credit: IHB)

Performance by retired staff (Credit: IHB)

 A musical tribute to the nation by a research team. (Credit: IHB)

A musical tribute to the nation by a research team. (Credit: IHB)

A choir performance (Credit: IHB)

A solo by GUO Chao (Credit: IHB)

A choir performance (Credit: IHB)