On May 7th, 2025, Nobel laureates David W. C. MacMillan (Chemistry), Konstantin Novoselov (Physics), Louis J. Ignarro (Medicine), and Turing Award recipient Jack Dongarra visited National Taipei University of Technology for the opening ceremony of Taiwan Nobel-Turing Week. Taipei Tech provided the campus facilities, enabling over 400 students to directly engage with these distinguished international scholars.

Taipei Tech President Wang Sea-fue expressed great honor in welcoming these esteemed guests, emphasizing the event as an excellent opportunity for students to interact and learn from global leaders in science and innovation. President Wang highlighted the university’s ongoing efforts to educational excellence and international collaboration.

During an engaging panel discussion, Dr. Dongarra spoke about the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in scientific discovery, noting that AI will significantly enhance research but cannot replace human creativity and intuition. Professor MacMillan agreed, noting AI’s capability in optimizing known processes, but underscored the indispensable role of human creativity in inventing new chemical reactions, which is particularly crucial for addressing sustainability challenges.

Professor Ignarro discussed his groundbreaking research on nitric oxide and emphasized the importance of a healthy lifestyle—balanced diet, regular exercise, and moderate consumption of red wine—in extending human lifespan. He encouraged Taipei Tech students to explore careers in fundamental biomedical research.

Professor Novoselov highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration for scientific advancement and noted Taiwan’s critical role in global technology development. He advocated combining AI technology with human intuition to unlock new scientific possibilities.

As a gesture of appreciation, President Wang Sea-fue presented specially crafted ceramic plates to the visiting scholars, symbolizing gratitude and international friendship.

Through meaningful exchanges like this, Taipei Tech continues nurturing talents crucial for global scientific and technological progress, adhering to its core values of integrity, diligence, intellect, and fortitude, and preparing future leaders to meet the challenges of our rapidly changing world.