On the evening of September 3, 2025, Professor Alistair Borthwick—Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, Royal Society of Edinburgh, and recipient of Peking University’s Yanyuan Friendship Award—joined over 50 new student and international representatives from PKU, Tsinghua, Harbin Institute of Technology, and other universities for a face-to-face dialogue session hosted by the School of Environment and Energy at PKU Shenzhen.
Academician Borthwick Shares Insights on Writing Academic Papers
Faculty and students gathered together in a warm and engaging atmosphere. Professor Borthwick began with a practical lecture on SCI paper writing for graduates, analyzing the development of high-quality academic publications from perspectives such as data quality, paper structure, visual design, and research ethics. He then joined the new students in an open exchange, discussing hot topics in research, career planning, and cultural exchange. His insightful and humorous presentation, bridging sciences and humanities, drew repeated rounds of applause.
Students' Reactions
Interaction between teachers and students
International visiting students from Malaysia at the School of Environment and Energy also joined the session, taking part in the discussion with the academician. At the close of the event, Wei Li, president of the Green Plus Student Association, presented Professor Borthwick with an eco-friendly leaf sculpture as a creative souvenir in recognition of his visit.
Malaysian exchange students
Presenting souvenirs
Returning to PKU Shenzhen as a frequent visitor to the city, Professor Borthwick made his second visit to the School of Environment and Energy. Previously, he spoke at a student-led “Face to Face with Fellows” tea forum and delivered Lecture 110 in the Nanyan Lecture Series, titled “Human and Natural Impacts on Large Rivers.” He has consistently praised the campus’s international atmosphere and supports student-led environmental initiatives.
Group photo
The 110th Lecture of Nan Yan Lecture Hall
Shared visions bridge any distance. As a true friend of China, Professor Borthwick has long admired Chinese culture and landscapes, and remains deeply committed to the country’s environmental progress. During this visit, he toured the Dapeng Peninsula and praised its exceptional ecological preservation and beautiful bay areas.From Plymouth Sound to Dapeng Bay, his journey reflects a friendship transcending borders.
Professor Borthwick swimming in the Dapeng Bay.
“You and me, from one world.” As a pioneering hub of reform and global exchange, Shenzhen offers young scholars a vibrant platform for international engagement. The School of Environment and Energy at PKU Shenzhen is actively expanding its global partnerships, building more bridges for academic and cultural dialogue.
