UoL Students Embark on Six-Week Research Adventure at XJTLU

On 16 June 2025, the Department of Chemistry and Materials Science (CMS), School of Science (SCI) at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) warmly welcomed ten undergraduate students from the University of Liverpool (UoL), United Kingdom (UK), kicking off an exciting six-week summer research program.

The visiting students were greeted by Prof. John Moraros, Dean of the School of Science and Dr. Lifeng Ding, Acting Head of the CMS Department, alongside faculty members and research supervisors. The welcoming session buzzed with enthusiasm as both hosts and guests looked forward to a summer of discovery, collaboration and friendship.

Following the introductions, Dr. Filippo Boi, the CMS UoL Liaison Officer, led the students on a tour of the Department’s state-of-the-art laboratories and advanced materials-characterization facilities. The day concluded with a crucial health and safety briefing by Dr. Boi, ensuring the students were well-prepared for their hands-on research experience.

A Summer of Innovation and Cross-Cultural Exchange

Over the next six weeks, the UoL students will dive into cutting-edge research projects, attend specialized academic lectures, and participate in dynamic group discussions. Working side by side with their XJTLU student peers and expert faculty, they will explore new scientific frontiers while building lasting international connections between China and the UK.

This unique student mobility programme has enjoyed a strong history of success and further strengthens the academic ties between UoL and XJTLU. It aims to foster cross-cultural learning, international student exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration. For the UoL students, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to expand their expertise, gain hands-on lab experience, bridge knowledge across continents and immerse themselves in a vibrant global research community at XJTLU.

Scholar Quote

Photo of Shay Davies while engaged on sample-prep and mounting procedure for X-ray diffraction with Dr. Filippo Boi at XJTLU, during the summer research program.

Student Quotes

Morgan Adams(UoL students at the research program)

“I'm currently working on molecular dynamics with the core based in simulation of PDMS which uses extensive coding. This is a really fascinating subject and the help I've received despite having very little prior knowledge of is amazing. My supervisor and his two students working within his research group that I met have been very kind, friendly and helpful. XJTLU itself is a beautiful campus with welcoming and friendly people. The research labs in the science buildings are very well equipped and the library is so useful and a great place to study and relax. Overall, I am thoroughly enjoying my time here and am very grateful for the opportunity to do a project placement with XJTLU.”

Kajanann Karunaivel(UoL students at the research program)

“The XJTLU environment and people make the integration process so inclusive and welcoming. A culture of genuine care”“I love knowing that my contribution to the research helps contribute to more effective waste-water treatment. Thank you to Dr Meng Ding and team for welcoming me in to such an amazing project”

“Gaining experience before 3rd year is great preparation for my academic and professional career especially in a different country”

Photos of the UoL students while engaged on laboratory activities at XJTLU during the summer research program.

Content and photos from Dr. Filippo Boi and Luyao Wang

Review: Prof. John Moraros and  Dr. Lifeng Ding