Association of China–Spain Science and Technology Youth Science Program (Series 5) and 2026 Welcome Ceremony of the Youth Members Successfully Held

On October 30, 2026, the Association of China–Spain Science and Technology (ACSST) Youth Science Program (Series 5) and 2026 Welcome Ceremony of the Youth Members was successfully held at Universidad Francisco de Vitoria (UFV) in Madrid, Spain. The event brought together cutting-edge science communication, interactive discussions, a review of the ACSST's achievements, and an outlook on future activities. It aimed to inspire young people's interest in scientific exploration, broaden their international perspectives, and strengthen their sense of belonging and engagement within the ACSST.

The event featured a special science outreach lecture delivered by Dr. Jun Xia, a researcher at IMDEA Materials Institute in Madrid. Participants included Prof. De-Yi Wang, the president of the ACSST; Mr. Xin Tan, the secretary-general of the ACSST; Dr. Guang-Zhong Yin, the director of the Youth Committee; as well as youth members and their accompanying parents.

The event began with a science outreach lecture entitled "Exploring the New Era of Energy Storage: from LIBs to Future High-Energy and High-Safety Batteries", presented by Dr. Jun Xia. Dr. Xia is currently a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellow at IMDEA Materials Institute. His research focuses on high-safety rechargeable lithium batteries, flame-retardant electrolyte design, and atomic-scale interface engineering. He has extensive research and industrial experience in battery materials and energy storage safety.

Drawing on familiar examples from everyday life, including smartphones, electric vehicles, and energy storage devices, Dr. Xia introduced the fascinating world of battery science through engaging illustrations and accessible explanations. His presentation covered the history and evolution of batteries, the fundamental structure and working principles of lithium-ion batteries, and the relationships between battery materials and energy storage performance. He also explained key scientific challenges associated with battery lifespan, charging efficiency, and operational safety. Building on these foundations, Dr. Xia explored emerging trends in next-generation battery technologies, highlighting how advanced materials and technological innovation could enable higher energy densities, faster charging, longer service lives, and improved safety. He also shared perspectives on the future of green and sustainable energy technologies. The lecture combined scientific depth with real-world relevance, offering participants an accessible introduction to both fundamental scientific principles and cutting-edge research developments. It demonstrated how science communication can stimulate curiosity, critical thinking, and innovative approaches to scientific exploration. During the interactive discussion, Dr. Xia actively engaged with the young participants, encouraging them to observe everyday phenomena, ask questions, and explore the scientific principles behind them. The lively exchange inspired curiosity and enthusiasm for materials science, energy technologies, and future technological developments. In recognition of his excellent presentation and enthusiastic support for youth science education, the ACSST presented Dr. Xia with a Certificate of Appreciation, expressing its sincere gratitude for his valuable contribution.

The second part of the event began with remarks by Professor De-Yi Wang, who warmly welcomed the newly admitted youth members. Professor Wang provided an overview of the ACSST's development since its establishment, highlighting its major activities, milestones, and achievements. He introduced the ACSST's efforts to promote scientific and technological exchanges between China and Spain, foster research collaboration, establish platforms for academic communication, and support the professional development of young researchers and scientific talents. Looking ahead, Professor Wang outlined the ACSST's vision for strengthening bilateral scientific cooperation, expanding interdisciplinary collaboration, and further promoting science education among younger generations. He emphasized that young people represent the future of scientific and technological innovation and serve as an important bridge for scientific and cultural exchange between China and Spain. Professor Wang encouraged youth members to make full use of the learning and networking opportunities provided by the ACSST, maintain their curiosity about science, and develop a lasting passion for knowledge and discovery. He also highlighted the importance of cultivating independent thinking, creativity, openness, and collaborative skills through continuous learning and practical experience. Addressing the new members, Professor Wang expressed his hopes that they would actively participate in the ACSST's activities, discover their interests through scientific exploration, broaden their horizons through communication and collaboration, and gradually develop their own aspirations and goals as they grow.

Following Professor Wang's remarks, Dr. Guang-Zhong Yin presented a comprehensive review of the Committee’s activities since its launch in 2025 and introduced its development plan for 2026–2027. Over the past year, the Youth Committee has organized a series of science and technology outreach activities focused on introducing fundamental scientific concepts, communicating advances in emerging technologies, and supporting the comprehensive development of young members. Through these initiatives, the Committee has gradually established a regular platform for science education, knowledge sharing, and interactive learning. Looking ahead to the coming year, the Youth Committee plans to further diversify its activities, introduce innovative formats, and provide more engaging, inclusive, and meaningful learning experiences. In terms of content, the Committee intends to gradually expand beyond its existing focus on natural sciences and advanced technologies to include topics related to the humanities and social sciences. This interdisciplinary approach aims to promote the balanced development of scientific literacy, humanistic understanding, and broader intellectual curiosity. Regarding activity formats, the Committee plans to complement traditional lectures and knowledge-sharing sessions with hands-on scientific experiments, interactive demonstrations, and experiential learning activities. By combining theoretical learning with practical engagement, the Committee hopes to enable young members not only to acquire scientific knowledge but also to experience the excitement and enjoyment of scientific discovery firsthand. Dr. Yin emphasized that these initiatives aim to broaden members' intellectual horizons, strengthen their practical skills, and cultivate interdisciplinary thinking. Through exploring the natural sciences while engaging in social, cultural, and technological topics, youth members will be encouraged to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the world around them.

To extend a warm welcome to the newly admitted youth members, the Youth Committee specially prepared official Membership Certificates, which were personally presented by Professor De-Yi Wang. The ceremony symbolized the ACSST's sincere welcome and high expectations for its newest members. It also marked their formal entry into the ACSST's community and the beginning of a new journey of scientific exploration, learning, and personal growth.

At the conclusion of the event, youth members joined Professor De-Yi Wang, invited speaker Dr. Jun Xia, and Dr. Guang-Zhong Yin for a group photograph. The photograph captured a memorable moment filled with enthusiasm for science, youthful energy, and a shared commitment to learning and discovery, bringing the event to a successful close.

The event was made possible with the generous support of the Higher Polytechnic School (Escuela Politécnica Superior) of Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, to which the ACSST extends its sincere appreciation. The event was organized and hosted by Dr. Guang-Zhong Yin, with preparation and coordination support from ACSST members Dr. Xiao-Mei Yang and Ms. Wei Wang.