The 6th International Conference on Nanoscience and Technology, also known as ChinaNANO 2015, was held in Beijing from September 3 to 5.

The biennial event attracted over 1,300 scholars and experts from hundreds of universities and research institutions in more than 40 countries and regions.

At the meeting, seven world-class experts delivered keynote speeches, over a hundred scientists were invited to deliver lectures, and another 500 scientists made oral presentations, along with 600 scientific poster presentations.

A nano-industrial forum was held on the sidelines of the conference, where more than 50 enterprises presented their most up-to-date laboratory equipment and technology.

In his opening address, Bai Chunli, president of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), said nanotechnology, information technology and biotechnology are important pillars of world scientific and technological development.

In the mid-1980s, China vigorously pushed ahead with both basic and applied research programs in nanoscience, Bai said, adding that the fast growth in published theses and patents in nanoscience indicates China’s efforts have laid a solid foundation for the application of nanotechnology .

In the future, CAS should enhance interaction between nanotechnology and innovation, and promote the integration of research and applications, Bai said.

In 2013, CAS’ National Center for Nanoscience and Technology launched a global nanoscience centers’ directors forum. The annual event serves as a high-level exchange platform for scientists across the world where they can discuss development trends, according to Bai.

Prior to ChinaNANO 2015, more than 30 directors of world nanoscience centers and other guests attended the directors’ forum. During the one-day meeting, they discussed key issues of common concerns, which was conducive to a better understanding of the interaction between nanotechnology and social needs.

With support from the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission, CAS held its first nano-industrial forum, at which more than 50 academic, government and industry representatives discussed the industrialization of nanotechnology. According to Bai, the forum will be a bridge between basic research in nanoscience and the industrial applications.

ChinaNANO Awards have been given since 2011. At this year’s meeting, the three medal winners were Charles M. Lieber from the US, Klaus Kern from Germany and Jiang Lei from China.

CAS President Bai Chunli delivers an opening address at ChinaNANO 2015