IHB held an academic symposium to celebrate the 70th research anniversary of Prof. CAO Wenxuan (CAS member) on November 17, 2025. (Credit: IHB)

On November 17, the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences held an academic symposium to celebrate the 70th research anniversary of Prof. CAO Wenxuan (CAS member). The event gathered more than 100 attendees, including senior scientists, leaders from relevant governmental agencies and research institutions, as well as colleagues and student representatives associated with Prof. Cao.

In his opening remarks, MIAO Wei, director of IHB, highlighted the Prof. Cao’s pioneering scientific approach, and steadfast commitment to rigorous research as defining qualities that have profoundly shaped the institute’s ethos. He further outlined three guiding principles for the community: to embrace a persistent and ambitious spirit in scientific exploration; to honor the institute’s historic legacy while actively shaping its future trajectory; and to dedicate themselves to educating and inspiring the next generation of researchers who will carry forward this mission.

Prof. WANG Jianwei warmly reflected on Prof. Cao's remarkable seven‑decade scientific journey and his seminal contributions to the field. On November 17, 1955, shortly after graduating from the Department of Biology at Sichuan University, Prof. Cao joined IHB, embarking on what would become a lifelong commitment to studying the aquatic ecosystems of the Yangtze River. Over the course of his career, from early adulthood to his later years, his steadfast dedication has crafted a legacy that intertwines scientific inquiry, ecological stewardship, and profound service to the nation.

Prof. Cao shared insights from his 70-year research career, encouraging young scientists to "stay grounded and dare to explore," and to continue contributing wisdom and strength to the sustainable development of the Yangtze River’s aquatic ecosystems. Attendees enthusiastically shared their memories of working with Prof. Cao, and doctoral student representatives presented him with flowers as a token of respect.

This symposium was not only a tribute to Prof. Cao’s 70 years of dedicated research and service to the nation but also a high-level academic exchange focused on the ecological conservation of the Yangtze River. It served to pool wisdom and strength for advancing the protection of aquatic biodiversity and promoting sustainable development in the Yangtze River basin.

Prof. Cao shared insights from his 70-year research career, encouraging young scientists to "stay grounded and dare to explore," and to continue contributing wisdom and strength to the sustainable development of the Yangtze River’s aquatic ecosystems. (Credit: IHB)