MIAO Wei, director of IHB, presented a comprehensive summary of IHB's work in 2025. (Credit: IHB)

On February 11, 2026, the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences held its 2025 Annual Review and Commendation Conference, alongside a New Year Celebration for 2026. The gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of 2025 and to outline the vision for 2026.

In his address, MIAO Wei, director of IHB, presented a comprehensive summary of IHB's work in 2025. He systematically reviewed the institute's accomplishments in deepening institutional reforms, undertaking major research initiatives, achieving key scientific breakthroughs, advancing the construction of a national key laboratory, strengthening technological infrastructure, and enhancing talent development. He also provided detailed insights into the formulation of IHB’s 15th Five-Year Plan and reaffirmed the goal of establishing the institute as a world-class research institution by 2030, marking its centennial anniversary. Miao extended sincere gratitude to all faculty members, students, and retirees for their dedication and contributions over the past year.

The conference also announced the 2025 team and individual assessment results.

Following the commendation session, the New Year Celebration began with an energetic opening dance titled United as One Family, performed by the institute’s leadership and administrative staff. IHB’s leadership extended New Year blessings through a couplet presentation, conveying heartfelt wishes for the IHB community.

The celebration was structured into four thematic segments: “Unity and Setting Sail Together,” “Timeless Melodies and Unwavering Commitment,” “Songs of Clear Waters—Praise for Ecology,” and “Youthful Vigor—Embarking on a New Journey.” Faculty members, retirees, and graduate students came together to perform a variety of acts, including song, dance, instrumental music, drama, and poetry recitals, expressing their passion for scientific research and their hopes for a promising future.

A highlight of the event was a video message featuring five academicians CHEN Yiyu, CAO Wenxuan, ZHU Zuoyan, ZHAO Jindong, GUI Jianfang, and HE Shunping, who extended their New Year greetings and brought a wave of warmth and inspiration to the audience.

Interspersed throughout the celebration were interactive games that added moments of joy and engagement. The event served not only as a comprehensive review of IHB's accomplishments in 2025 but also as a cultural occasion to strengthen unity and morale. As the institute embarks on the first year of the 15th Five-Year Plan, IHB is poised to move forward with renewed determination and a steadfast commitment to building a world-class research institution, contributing to national development through scientific excellence and environmental stewardship.

CAS Academicians CAO Wenxuan and GUI Jianfang, together with the institute's leadership, jointly presented awards to the winning research groups. (Credit: IHB)

The institute's leadership presented New Year blessings through couplets. (Credit: IHB)