URF students from 20 universities embark on journey of scientific exploration. [Photo/en.xmu.edu.cn]

On July 11, 2025, the opening ceremony of the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship program (URF), hosted by the State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science (MEL) at Xiamen University, took place at the Xiang'an Campus. The program welcomed 28 students from 20 universities across China, the United States, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Professor Luo Yawei, chair of the URF Committee, along with 19 mentors and representatives of the MEL faculty, attended a related event, which was hosted by URF program coordinator Wang Guanfei.

In his opening speech, Luo highlighted the development and achievements of Xiamen University's marine environmental science discipline. He emphasized the program's mission to inspire students to "Unleash the unknown with boundless curiosity, reveal truth through relentless exploration, and forge the future with fearless innovation".

Following the ceremony, Lin Zhiyong, an engineer at MEL, and Wang conducted laboratory safety guidance and introduced equipment, while Zhu Jia and Chen Yaojin led students on tours of MEL's historical exhibits, ocean observation system displays, and Mass Spectrometry Center.

A lunch and ice-breaker provided opportunities for free discussions between students and faculty, allowing participants to experience MEL's inclusive and dynamic academic culture. Meanwhile, a poster exhibition featuring the 2024 URF projects was held for reference and inspiration.

From July to August, participants will take part in short courses, lectures, hands-on experiments, a research cruise, and science outreach activities, further enriching their research experience.

Since its launch in 2014, the MEL URF program aims to cultivate undergraduate research skills, foster innovation, and prepare students for advanced studies. Fellows have opportunities to conduct research projects, master lab techniques, and develop scientific communication skills under faculty guidance.

Students have warm exchanges during the event. [Photo/en.xmu.edu.cn]