To broaden students' global perspectives, strengthen academic exchanges, and cultivate internationalized talents, the College of Chemical and Biological Engineering(CBE) at Zhejiang University(ZJU) organized a delegation of 14 undergraduates for a study tour to Australia from February 3 to February 9, 2025. The delegation visited the University of Melbourne, the University of Adelaide, and the University of Sydney. This marked the first time the college arranged an undergraduate visit to Australia, led by Professor Xiao Fengshou.
University of Melbourne: Academic Excellence and Green Innovation
On February 4, the delegation arrived at the University of Melbourne, a world-renowned research institution celebrated for its leadership in chemical engineering, particularly in catalytic materials, green chemistry, sustainable energy, nanotechnology, and biochemical engineering. Postdoctoral researcher Xu Wanjun and doctoral candidate Wang Tianzheng warmly welcomed the group, guiding them through the campus while sharing the university’s history, development, and cutting-edge research directions. The delegation was deeply impressed by the university’s picturesque environment and vibrant academic atmosphere. The hosts also shared their personal experiences as international students, addressing questions about curriculum design, research opportunities, and campus life.
University of Adelaide: In-Depth Exchanges and Unique Insights
On February 5, the delegation visited the University of Adelaide, whose Chemical Engineering Department ranked 1st in Australia and 42nd globally in the 2024 ARWU (ShanghaiRanking) subject rankings. The group toured the Department of Chemical Engineering building, bioengineering labs, environmental engineering labs, and energy engineering labs. Lab directors provided hands-on introductions to equipment and ongoing projects, such as photocatalytic decomposition of water pollutants and bacterial protein extraction. On February 6, Professor Chunxia Zhao presented an overview of the department’s development, research directions, and graduate programs, engaging in lively discussions about doctoral studies and training plans. The delegation interacted warmly with faculty and students, exchanging academic experiences. Led by doctoral student Evan, the team further explored the campus, gaining insights into the university’s history and multicultural environment.
Professor Xiao Fengshou presented commemorative gifts on behalf of the college, expressing gratitude and hopes for deeper international collaboration and breakthrough research outcomes.
University of Sydney: Historic Legacy and Cutting-Edge Research
On February 7, the delegation visited the University of Sydney, Australia’s oldest university (founded in 1850) and a global leader in engineering. Professor Timothy Langrish introduced the university’s diverse academic programs, including industry partnerships in mining and water resources, and highlighted its unique dual-degree option combining arts and engineering. Professor Jun Huang shared details about existing collaborations between Sydney University and Zhejiang University, emphasizing the value of this visit and future exchanges. The group toured Professor Langrish’s lab, observing wastewater treatment facilities and learning about the critical role of "scale-up" in industrial applications. During lunch, Professors John Kavanagh and Alejandro Montoya joined discussions, offering valuable advice on academic and career planning.
This study tour provided students with invaluable opportunities to expand their international horizons, enhance teamwork and communication skills, and deepen their understanding of Australia’s chemical engineering landscape and overseas study prospects. The experience is expected to foster innovation, global research competencies, and fresh perspectives, empowering students to contribute to scientific advancements with cutting-edge momentum.
