Nobel laureate inspires Ningbo students to explore magic of science

Bernard L. Feringa delivers a speech to Ningbo students. [Photo/Yongpai App]

What if molecules could dance? On Aug 24, Nobel Prize-winning chemist Bernard L. Feringa brought the fascinating world of molecular science to life for students in Ningbo.

Feringa, a Nobel laureate in chemistry and foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, gave a popular science lecture featuring molecular science at Ningbo University Zone Library. The event was organized by the Ningbo education bureau.

Rather than relying on complex theories, Feringa explained cutting-edge research through the simple concept of "molecular switches," comparing the movement of nanoscale machines to bicycle chains and Lego blocks. His vivid presentation showed students that Nobel Prize-winning science is not distant or mysterious — it is all around us.

Sharing his own scientific journey, Feringa encouraged students to ask the right questions, embrace failure, and pursue their talents and dreams. He emphasized the value of imagination, noting that while knowledge is finite, imagination can encompass the entire world.

Students responded confidently, asking questions and exchanging ideas with Feringa in fluent English.

Feringa hopes the experience will plant seeds of scientific curiosity in young minds, inspiring them to explore the unknown and discover the joy of science.