从北生所走出的未来科学家

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant contributions of four award-winning scientists from the Beijing Institute of Life Sciences (BILS) to the field of life sciences, emphasizing the institute's unique environment that fosters innovation and original research [1][3][6]. Group 1: Achievements of Award-Winning Scientists - In the past decade, 14 scientists have received the Future Science Prize in the life sciences category, with notable contributions from Shao Feng, Li Wenhui, Zhou Jianmin, and Chai Jijie, all of whom conducted their groundbreaking research at BILS [3][4][5]. - Shao Feng was awarded the Future Science Prize in 2018 for his discovery of receptors and execution proteins involved in the inflammatory response to bacterial endotoxin LPS [3]. - Li Wenhui received the Future Science Prize in 2022 for identifying receptors for hepatitis B and D viruses, aiding in the development of more effective treatments [4]. - In 2023, Chai Jijie and Zhou Jianmin were recognized for their pioneering work on the structure and function of anti-disease bodies in combating plant pests [5]. Group 2: Unique Environment at BILS - BILS, established in 2003, operates without administrative levels or fixed positions, allowing scientists to independently determine their research directions and alleviating funding concerns [6][7]. - The institute's supportive environment encourages scientists to take risks and explore new research areas, as exemplified by Shao Feng's transition from studying bacterial infections to discovering the molecular mechanisms of cell death [12][14]. - Li Wenhui emphasized the importance of a "fact-based" approach at BILS, where open discussions and constructive criticism during weekly meetings foster a culture of rigorous scientific inquiry [23][25]. Group 3: Collaborative Research and Innovation - The collaboration between Chai Jijie and Zhou Jianmin began serendipitously during their time at BILS, leading to significant advancements in understanding plant immunity [31][33]. - Their joint research efforts culminated in the discovery of anti-disease bodies, marking a milestone in the field of plant innate immunity, which was recognized with the Future Science Prize [33][34]. - The institute's culture of collaboration and mutual support among scientists has been pivotal in driving innovative research and achieving notable scientific breakthroughs [36][39].