Why a Young AI Expert Chose Nanjing University Over a US Academic Career
Fu Tianfan, an AI expert, has left his academic position in New York for China, pursuing opportunities at Nanjing University. He highlights China’s substantial investment in higher education and its favorable research environment as key factors in his decision. The integration of AI in scientific research, particularly drug discovery, is transforming traditional methodologies.
Fu Tianfan, a 32-year-old AI expert, recently departed from his tenure-track assistant professor position in New York to pursue new research opportunities in China. He noted that China’s increasing investment in higher education has opened new avenues for young scientists like himself.
Fu expressed that “Nanjing University combines a rich cultural heritage with strong leadership in the natural sciences”. He emphasized that the university’s broad strengths in basic science provide an ideal environment for his research focused on utilizing artificial intelligence to expedite scientific discovery.
Additionally, Fu mentioned that proximity to his family, after spending several years abroad, significantly influenced his decision to return to China. He articulated that AI technologies are revolutionizing traditional scientific workflows.
In the realm of drug discovery, Fu stated that outdated trial-and-error approaches, which were both costly and time-consuming, can now be expedited. He elaborated that researchers can leverage machine learning and big data to train deep learning models, enabling them to virtually screen extensive molecular libraries and identify candidates with substantial therapeutic potential.
Fu Tianfan’s decision to leave a promising academic career in the United States for opportunities in China reflects the significant changes in the global academic landscape. The combination of enhanced investment in education, advanced research environments at institutions like Nanjing University, and personal considerations underscore the appeal that China holds for international scholars. Moreover, the integration of AI in scientific research promises to markedly transform processes such as drug discovery.
Original Source: amp.scmp.com
Post Comment