Shen Chao.

Lei Yaguo.

On Aug 26, the 2024 "Science Exploration Award" winners were officially announced, with 49 young scientists making the list. Among them were two scientists from Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU), Shen Chao and Lei Yaguo.

Shen Chao is a second-tier professor at the School of Electronics and Information Engineering at XJTU and a distinguished professor in the National Leading Talents Program. His research focuses on trustworthy, secure, and controlled intelligent systems, with over 180 papers published and nine best paper awards.

Lei Yaguo is a professor, executive dean of the School of Mechanical Engineering at XJTU, and a recipient of the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars. He has long been engaged in the research of intelligent maintenance for high-end equipment. His intelligent diagnostic systems have been applied in aerospace, intelligent manufacturing, energy and power, and transportation.

Established in 2018, the "Science Exploration Award" is one of the most well-funded programs for young scientific talents in China. Each winner will receive a total of 3 million yuan ($423,300) over five years, with full discretion on how to use the funds. This will greatly support young scientists to study fundamental science and develop cutting-edge technology during their exploration phase.