On March 7, 2025, the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences welcomed a delegation from the Kunming Institute of Botany (KIB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, marking a significant step toward strengthening collaboration between the two institutes. (Image by IHB)

On March 7, 2025, the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences welcomed a delegation from the Kunming Institute of Botany (KIB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, marking a significant step toward strengthening collaboration between the two institutes. The visit focused on sharing insights into research innovation, talent development, and institutional reforms, with the goal of fostering mutual growth and addressing shared scientific challenges. 

The delegation, led by KIB director Puno Pema-Tenzin, included senior representatives from KIB’s science cooperation, human resources, and administrative divisions. They were greeted by IHB leadership, including deputy director HU Wei, who chaired the meeting and emphasized the importance of cross-institutional collaboration in advancing scientific findings. 

During the roundtable discussion, IHB researchers presented their latest initiatives in research organization and scientific evaluation reforms. WU Xingqiang, Head of Research and Technology Development, outlined IHB’s innovative approaches to structuring research projects and enhancing evaluation systems. ZHANG Mi, acting head of Human Resources, shared strategies for talent recruitment and compensation reforms, highlighting IHB’s efforts to attract and retain top scientific talent.

Director Puno Pema-Tenzin provided an overview of KIB’s research priorities and institutional strategies, identifying potential areas for joint initiatives. The discussion also delved into optimizing research models, innovating talent evaluation mechanisms, and addressing common challenges in institutional reform. Both sides expressed a strong interest in sharing best practices and exploring new frameworks for research management. 

In his closing remarks, XIE Shouqi, IHB’s deputy director, highlighted the shared mission of IHB and KIB as leading institutions in the biological sciences. He noted that the exchange of ideas during the visit had sparked new possibilities for collaboration and expressed optimism about future joint efforts to tackle pressing scientific issues.

As part of their visit, the KIB delegation toured several key facilities at IHB, including the China Zebrafish Resource Center, the Museum of Hydrobiological Sciences, and the Baiji Dolphinarium. These tours provided the delegation with a deeper understanding of IHB’s research capabilities and its commitment to biodiversity conservation.

The delegation, led by KIB director Puno Pema-Tenzin, visited the History Exhibit of the institute. (Credit: IHB)