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].

Core Insights - The Future Science Prize, initiated by Yang Zhenning, celebrates its 10th anniversary in July 2025, recognized as one of the most significant scientific awards in China [2] - Over the past decade, 14 winners in the life sciences have emerged, with notable contributions from researchers at the Beijing Institute of Life Sciences (BILS) [2][3] Group 1: Achievements of Award Winners - Shao Feng received the Future Science Prize in 2018 for discovering receptors and execution proteins involved in the inflammatory response to bacterial endotoxin LPS [2] - Li Wenhui was awarded in 2022 for identifying receptors for hepatitis B and D viruses, aiding in the development of more effective treatments [3][14] - In 2023, Chai Jijie and Zhou Jianmin were recognized for their groundbreaking work on disease-resistant proteins and their structural elucidation [3] Group 2: Environment and Structure of BILS - BILS, established in 2003, operates without administrative levels or fixed positions, allowing scientists to autonomously determine research directions and secure funding [3][4] - The institute has attracted numerous talented young scholars, including Shao Feng, Chai Jijie, Zhou Jianmin, and Li Wenhui, who joined between 2004 and 2007 [3][4] Group 3: Research Philosophy and Collaboration - The culture at BILS emphasizes a "trial and error" approach, encouraging scientists to explore and innovate without the pressure of guaranteed success [10][15] - Regular meetings, such as the PI Club, foster open discussions and critical feedback among researchers, enhancing collaborative efforts and idea generation [17] Group 4: Personal Experiences of Researchers - Shao Feng chose to return to China from Harvard, believing in the potential for significant contributions to modern life sciences [5][6] - Li Wenhui, motivated by personal experiences with hepatitis patients, shifted his focus to hepatitis research upon joining BILS [11][13] - Both researchers attribute their successes to the supportive and flexible environment at BILS, which allows for independent exploration and innovation [8][10][15] Group 5: Impact of BILS on Scientific Community - BILS has played a crucial role in advancing China's scientific landscape through innovative research, talent cultivation, and fostering a collaborative environment [23] - The institute's ability to provide substantial research funding without competitive pressures has attracted top talent and facilitated groundbreaking discoveries [22][25]