On April 16, 2025, a group of 30 undergraduate and graduate students from the Joint Medical School and the School of Medicine visited the headquarters of BGI Group for a learning and exchange activity. The visit aimed to promote the spirit of the May Fourth Movement, inspire innovation and a sense of responsibility among young students, and guide them to align their professional knowledge with national needs, clarify their career paths, and foster a strong sense of social responsibility.

Image | Group Photo

At the beginning of the visit, the students toured the monument in front of BGI Group’s headquarters dedicated to the decoding of human chromosome 3. They learned in depth about the historic breakthrough achieved by Chinese scientists in 2000—successfully sequencing the gene sequence of human chromosome 3. This milestone, led by young Chinese researchers, marked a significant achievement in the global field of genetic science. The students were deeply moved by the sense of mission and responsibility shouldered by a new generation of scientific researchers in China.

Image | Visiting the Monument for the Decoding of Human Chromosome 3

In the central exhibition area of BGI Group’s headquarters, students gained a comprehensive understanding of the organization’s development, mission and vision, and organizational structure through guided explanations and on-site observations. The exhibition showcased BGI’s latest progress in various fields such as scientific innovation, educational collaboration, data storage, and the health industry—particularly the research and technological breakthroughs in the development of domestically produced sequencing instruments. The ecological design of the central atrium also captured the students’ interest, with its layered greenery and winding water features reflecting the concept of harmony between humans and nature.

Centered around the theme “All Things Grow,” the students listened to introductions on the practical applications of genetic technologies in areas such as agricultural breeding, pest and disease control, food safety, and ecological restoration. A notable highlight was the greening project in the Taklamakan Desert, which demonstrated the deep integration of genetic technology with ecological conservation, sparking great interest among the students in the fusion of ecology and technology.

Image | Students Listening Attentively to the Presentation

At the sequencing center, synthesis platform, and STOmics spatial-temporal laboratory, students had a close-up view of BGI’s independently developed “SEQ ALL” full-spectrum long-read sequencing system, gaining firsthand exposure to the working environment at the forefront of scientific research. This immersive experience inspired many to pursue continuous exploration on the path of scientific inquiry, embodying the spirit of the May Fourth Movement and contributing to technological advancement.

During the visit, the students also toured BGI’s Party-building Book Café, where they learned about the organization’s innovative practices in Party-building and cultural development. Many students shared that this gave them a new perspective on workplace culture and organizational values in their future careers.

Image | Visiting the Party-Building Book Café

At the end of the visit, students participated in a discussion and exchange session. Mr. Ding Lin, Deputy Director of the Student Affairs Department at BGI Education Center, introduced BGI’s current research directions, core business sectors, and its university-industry joint training mechanisms, with a particular focus on the growth pathways for young talent. During the interactive segment, students actively asked questions and engaged in in-depth discussions on topics such as career prospects, job requirements, internship arrangements, and doctoral training programs. The atmosphere at the exchange session was lively and enthusiastic.

Image | Discussion and Exchange Session

This company visit not only broadened the students’ horizons but also strengthened their awareness of personal mission and responsibility. Taking this event as a starting point, efforts will continue to deepen the collaborative education mechanism between universities and enterprises, building a new model of integrated ideological and practical education. This will provide more opportunities for young students to connect cutting-edge science and technology with a strong sense of social mission.