Thomas C. Südhof, Nobel Prize Laureate in Physiology or Medicine and a member of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States, addresses students from Optics Valley Ulink School. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

"Wuhan is a vibrant city. Although this is not my first visit, each experience feels fresh and exciting. I see hope in the next generation of scientists," said Thomas C. Südhof, Nobel Prize Laureate in Physiology or Medicine and a member of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States, during his recent visit to East Lake High-tech Development Zone (also known as Optics Valley of China, or OVC).

He engaged in face-to-face discussions with students from Optics Valley Ulink School on the theme of "Cultivating Innovative Talent for the Future".

During his speech, Südhof delved into the topic of "how to become a scientist" with students. He encouraged them to try different fields, continually self-assess, understand what they are passionate about, and recognize the environments in which they can perform at their best. He believes that only in this way can people work efficiently, feel comfortable, and be happy.

Students and teachers from Optics Valley Ulink School listen to the speech by Thomas C. Südhof. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

He was the third Nobel laureate to visit Optics Valley within a period of 20 days, following visits by Nobel Prize Laureate in Physiology or Medicine Erwin Neher on May 15 and Nobel Prize Laureate in Physics Ferenc Krausz on May 27.

Nobel Prize Laureate in Physiology or Medicine Erwin Neher visits OVC on May 15.  [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

Erwin Neher visited Optics Valley on May 15 and was appointed as an honorary professor at Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST). His research has had a strong influence on the study of heart disease, epilepsy, neurological and muscular system diseases, and new drug research.

On May 27, Ferenc Krausz was invited to speak at the optoelectronics information lecture hall at HUST. He said he looked forward to further deepening exchanges and cooperation with the university.

OVC currently boasts four Nobel laureates, 81 academicians from China and abroad, and 3,447 "3551 Talent Program" members. Over 80 percent of its workforce has received higher education, making it a desirable destination for talent from around the world.