On May 25, 2025, Lei Xuanwu, a first-year student from SPEIT, shone at the 12th Shanghai Science Popularization Contest hosted by the Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission. With her presentation "The Scientific Marvel of Neutrons," she emerged victorious among 1,212 citywide contestants, claiming the Shanghai First Prize and the title of "2025 Shanghai Top 10 Science Communicator."
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Centered on the theme "Champion Science, Cherish Science," this year’s competition attracted a record number of participants—including researchers, medical professionals, museum educators, university students, and tech innovators. After rigorous preliminary and semifinal rounds, 38 finalists competed for top honors.
▲ Click image for competition coverage
Lei Xuanwu captivated judges with her solid scientific foundation, innovative content, and dynamic delivery. Her award-winning presentation traced the discovery of neutrons, explained the principles of neutron scattering technology, and spotlighted Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s (SJTU) neutron science platform.
Neutrons: The "Super Microscope"
Neutron megascience facilities act as "super X-ray eyes" for exploring the microscopic world. They penetrate dense materials non-destructively, detecting atomic structures and defects critical to aerospace engines, nuclear plants, and cutting-edge R&D in batteries, semiconductors, and biomolecules.
To support national strategic projects, SJTU developed two world-leading neutron spectrometers—Hetu and Luoshu—at the China Mianyang Research Reactor. Featuring groundbreaking technology, these instruments drive innovation in aerospace, energy, microchips, and biomedicine.
Q1： What distinguished your presentation?
"As one of few student contestants, I showcased SJTU’s latest research—a fresh perspective among industry professionals. I also integrated French into the ‘One-Minute Science Show’ segment to highlight Sino-French hydrogen energy cooperation. Additionally, I used original animations by SJTU peers to visualize neutron science, making my delivery uniquely engaging."
Q2：Key takeaways from the contest?
"I gained deep knowledge beyond my presentation—from M1 lysogenic viruses to deep-sea engineering and AI endoscopy. Meeting science communicators (doctors, researchers, etc.) inspired me with their dedication. Most importantly, I learned that effective science communication fuses depth, perspective, and warmth—it’s not just reciting facts."
Q3：Advice for future participants?
"Stay patient, keep improving, and embrace breakthroughs. Carry this passion beyond the contest—devote yourselves to making science accessible. I hope more students join such events to unleash the power of scientific innovation!"
Lei’s presentation celebrated how China’s megascience facilities transform "national treasures" into tools for societal progress, while "Hetu-Luoshu" symbolized the fusion of ancient Chinese wisdom with modern technology. Next, she will represent Shanghai in the national finals, taking the "Neutron Marvel" to an even grander stage!
Finally, congratulations once again to Lei Xuanwu!
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