On the morning of March 8, the “SJTU 130th Anniversary · International Women’s Day | China–France Cultural Month and Portrait Exhibition of Outstanding Women Scientists” opened at the SJTU Paris Elite Institute of Technology of Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Among the distinguished guests attending the opening ceremony were Joan Valadou, Consul General of France in Shanghai; Rachid Malti, Consul for Science and Technology at the French Consulate General in Shanghai; Wu E, Professor at East China Normal University; Liu Weidong, Vice President of Shanghai Jiao Tong University; Wu Jingyi, Deputy Director of the University Council and Dean of the School of Education; Zhou Huifang, Party Secretary of Shanghai Children’s Medical Center; Sarinna, Director of the Women’s Research Center; Zhang Dandan, Executive Deputy Director of the Women’s Committee and part-time Vice Chair of the Labor Union; Gu Xiyao, Director of the Alumni Association Office; Chen Cailian, Chinese Dean of the Paris Elite Institute of Technology; and Zied Moumni, French Dean of the institute. Outstanding women scientists and faculty and student representatives from within and beyond the university also attended. The event was hosted by Xiong Zhenhua, Party Secretary of the institute.

Liu Weidong extended festive greetings and a warm welcome to the guests on behalf of the university. He noted that throughout SJTU’s 130-year history, women scientists at the university have advanced in step with national development, leaving lasting marks on the history of science through their wisdom and perseverance. He expressed hope that the exhibition would serve as a bridge for the exchange of scientific spirit between China and France, inspiring more young students to pursue scientific research and further strengthening Sino-French cooperation in science, innovation, and culture.

Joan Valadou spoke highly of Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s important role in promoting educational and scientific collaboration between China and France. He emphasized that women are a vital force in scientific innovation and expressed his hope that the exhibition would serve as an opportunity to further deepen bilateral cooperation in cultivating women scientists and advancing frontier technologies, thereby elevating cultural and scientific exchanges between the two countries.

Zied Moumni introduced the background and content of the exhibition. Initiated jointly by the French National Centre for Scientific Research and the Women & Science Association, the exhibition features portraits of 40 women scientists from China and France, photographed by independent French photographer Vincent Mentzel. Covering disciplines including mathematics, physics, biomedicine, aerospace, and climate science, the portraits vividly capture the intelligence and dedication of women in scientific exploration. Moumni noted that the Paris Elite Institute of Technology, as a model of Sino-French cooperation in engineering education and research, has long been committed to promoting cross-cultural talent cultivation and collaborative research. The exhibition is both a tribute to women scientists and a vivid reflection of the vitality of China–France scientific cooperation.

Joan Valadou and Liu Weidong jointly inaugurated the exhibition, witnessed by all guests present.

Following the ceremony, a forum titled “On the Road of Science: Growth, Perseverance, and Exploration of Women in Technology” was held. Six outstanding women scientists—Wu Jingyi, Zhou Huifang, Sarinna, Wu E, Chen Cailian, and Zhou Yidi—engaged in in-depth discussions on topics including scientific exploration, career development, and international collaboration. The lively exchange drew enthusiastic applause from the audience.

At the end of the event, guests toured the exhibition hall on the first floor of the institute, experiencing the power of science and the strength of women through a series of compelling portraits.

Using photography as a medium and science as a bridge, the exhibition not only showcases the remarkable achievements of women scientists from China and France but also pays tribute to the spirit of science and the humanistic values behind it. Looking ahead, the SJTU Paris Elite Institute of Technology will continue to leverage its international educational platform to build more bridges for Sino-French exchange and contribute SJTU’s wisdom to global scientific progress and cross-cultural dialogue.

Author: Fu Yaning

Contributing Unit: SJTU Paris Elite Institute of Technology

Editor: Yin Yihe

Chief Editor: Sun Jia

Translated by: Denise

Proofread by: Rebecca

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Celebrating SJTU’s 130th Anniversary and Honoring Women in Science China–France Outstanding Women Scientists Portrait Exhibition Opens at SJTU Paris Elite Institute of Technology

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