In a significant development for the academic landscape in China, renowned mathematician Vladimir Markovic has joined Tsinghua University's Yau Mathematical Sciences Centre from the University of Oxford. Markovic, a Royal Society fellow since 2014, specializes in low-dimensional geometry and topology and has been part of the centre's leadership since September 2024. His appointment follows the retirement of Yau Shing-Tung, the centre's director, who previously held a position at Harvard University. [1fdb3cb0]
Yau Shing-Tung, a prominent Chinese-American mathematician, has voiced concerns about the challenges faced by Chinese scientists in the United States. He stated that many are compelled to leave due to discrimination and a lack of supportive research environments. A survey of 1,300 US-based scientists of Chinese descent revealed that 72% feel unsafe and 61% have considered leaving the US. The China Initiative, launched in 2018, has heightened fears of federal prosecution among these scientists. [03c9bc93]
In light of these challenges, Yau advocates for China to develop original technologies and foster creativity in education to compete with the US. He believes that nurturing innovation could enable China to become an equal partner in scientific exchange with the US. This perspective aligns with the broader trend of distinguished scientists returning to or relocating to Chinese institutions, contributing to the country's growing reputation as a hub for scientific research and innovation. [03c9bc93]
This trend is exemplified by the recent return of Wang Xujia, a Chinese-Australian mathematician who took on a chair professor role at Westlake University after nearly 30 years abroad. Wang's achievements include the Australian Mathematical Society Medal and the Morningside Mathematics Prize, highlighting the caliber of talent that is now gravitating towards Chinese academia. [3f878d01]
Additionally, Kenji Fukaya, a prominent Japanese mathematician, also joined Tsinghua University in September 2024, further enhancing the institution's reputation in the mathematical sciences. The influx of such high-profile academics underscores China's ambition to become a global leader in science and technology, attracting top talent from around the world. [1fdb3cb0]