Between 27 and 29 May 2025, the School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) at Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) hosted the first HUST-UM Forum on Frontiers of New Materials and Interdisciplinary Science in Wuhan.

Sheng Jingbo, Deputy Director of the Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs Office of HUST, welcomed the delegation from the University of Macau (UM). He noted that HUST has forged partnerships with more than 300 universities in over 40 countries and regions, aiming to cultivate globally-minded talent with a strong sense of social responsibility. "As a vital bridge between Eastern and Western science and technology, UM embraces openness and inclusiveness in academic innovation." Sheng said. He expressed the hope that the two universities will deepen collaboration in research projects and technology transfer, create platforms for young scholars to exchange ideas, and accelerate the cultivation of innovative talent to advance science and technology.

On 27 May, the two sides held a round-table discussion. Professor Zhou Huamin, Dean of MSE, emphasized the school’s commitment to international engagement and voiced his wish to strengthen cooperation with UM on high-level scientific achievements, jointly amplifying China's voice on the global academic stage. Professor Zhang Cheng briefed the visitors on MSE's history, faculty, research portfolio and academic programs. Associate Professor Sun Handong, Deputy Director of UM's Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering (IAPME), introduced IAPME's evolution, research teams, scientific directions and technological accomplishments. Both sides agreed that substantial synergy exists between UM and HUST in the field of new materials and looked forward to tackling key challenges in materials science together.

On 28 May, scholars from both universities gathered for a full-day scientific symposium. Twelve experts delivered talks on semiconductor materials, high-entropy alloys, ultrasonic detection techniques for lithium batteries and other cutting-edge topics. Faculty members and students engaged in lively discussions, generating new ideas for future research.

The UM delegation also visited the National High Magnetic Field Center and the State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology.

The forum not only showcased the latest advances in new materials research but also charted new directions for interdisciplinary development and laid a solid foundation for sustained bilateral collaboration between HUST and UM.