Strength of partnership

US scientist Earl Plummer is both a contributor to and witness of China's rapid development in quantum physics. He has worked closely with Chinese experts and institutes over the past decade. [Photo provided to China Daily]

He has made great efforts in bringing practical science-related experiences and traditions from the West to China, but also urged Chinese institutes, including the Institute of Physics, to create their own methods to develop science, according to Guo Jiandong, a professor at the institute and a former student of Plummer.

"He is a leading figure in the field of condensed matter physics internationally. His advice and support have been very helpful not only for me personally but also for the enhancement of science as a whole in China," says Guo.

In recent years, Plummer has made annual visits to China, staying about a month each time, collaborating with Chinese scientists, giving lectures and workshops and participating in the cultivation of talent.

He has made efforts to help the Chinese Academy of Sciences build a talent pool of professionals with an international vision.

He has also expanded the cooperation to more Chinese organizations.

For example, he has served as a foreign adviser at the High Magnetic Field Laboratory under the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science in East China's Anhui province.

"I intend to make it (collaboration with China) grow in the future," says Plummer.

He says he has observed China's progress in science and is glad that the Chinese Academy of Sciences is placing emphasis on fostering creativity among Chinese students in various institutes.

Plummer believes that the future of science in China lies with young people, and suggests that the "government should identify the really talented people, and give them the resources to shine".

Over the years, he has been making efforts to deepen the collaboration between Chinese institutions and his US university both in research and talent nurturing.

He has guided an international team with members mainly from the Institute of Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the team has published nearly 30 papers in international journals, including Science. The program has helped nurture many young scholars.

His university in the US has established a dual-degree program, which allows Chinese students from two partner institutes in China to study in the US and vice versa. The program will expand to five or six Chinese universities in the next couple of years, Plummer says.

In September, he was given the Friendship Award by the Chinese government. The award is the highest honor given to foreigners who have made important contribution to China's social and economic development. Plummer also won the 2016 CAS Award for International Scientific Cooperation.

Contact the writer at liuxiangrui@chinadaily.com.cn