Academician Xu Zongben.

Xu Zongben, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and a professor at the School of Mathematics and Statistics at Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU), has been awarded the 2024 Wu Wenjun Artificial Intelligence (AI) Science and Technology Achievement Award (formerly the Highest Achievement Award in Science and Technology) by the Chinese Association for Artificial Intelligence.

The Wu Wenjun AI Science and Technology Award, named after Wu Wenjun, a pioneer in AI, former honorary president of the association, and an alumnus of XJTU, was initiated by the Chinese Association for Artificial Intelligence in 2011. Recognized as China's highest honor in intelligent science and technology, the award celebrates individuals and organizations making outstanding contributions to AI research and innovation.

Xu has long been engaged in foundational research on machine learning, big data, and artificial intelligence, achieving systematic breakthroughs in mathematical theories, fundamental algorithms, and innovative applications. His contributions have been instrumental in advancing AI development. He has actively promoted the practical implementation of big data and AI technologies and played a key role in addressing major national challenges. 

His accolades include the State Natural Science Award (Second Prize, 2007 and 2023), the State Science and Technology Progress Award (Second Prize, 2011), and several prestigious mathematics awards. He has also delivered a lecture at the 26th International Congress of Mathematicians.