Congratulations to Professor Zhou Min’s team at the ZJU-UoE Institute (ZJE) for winning a Gold and Silver Medal at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva this month. A photo of Prof Zhou Min’s team receiving their certificates at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva. This highlights both the cutting-edge scientific innovation and the Institute’s role as a world-class hub for biomedical education and talent development. The awards reflect ZJE’s commitment to training the next generation of leaders in biomedical science. I am very happy to see students and early-career researchers who are already making their mark on the global stage and progressing toward top research institutions and high-impact careers. Professor Sue Welburn Executive Dean, ZJE Institute From discovery to digestive health innovation The team’s gold-medal winning project, Microalgae medicinal and edible products for gastrointestinal care and treatment, showcases how fundamental “blue skies” research can evolve into practical health solutions. Developed using nano-spirulina and grounded in the concept of medicinal and edible homology, the innovation offers new possibilities for gastrointestinal care. The project was led by Professor Zhou Min, alongside PhD student Ye Jiahui and team member Jiang Yicheng, showing how emerging ZJE researchers are driving breakthrough discoveries. Translational research in action The silver medal-winning project, Spirulina probiotics - A new generation of health management technology, demonstrates the power of translational research and its pathway toward real-world application. With contributions from PhD student Lin Donghu, postdoctoral fellow Yu Qian, and undergraduate student Wang Jiayi, the project reflects a full spectrum of academic progression, underscoring ZJE’s strength in nurturing talent at every stage. A complete biomedical research pipeline Professor Sue Welburn, continued: ‘These two award-winning innovations highlight our formula for success via a complete biomedical research pipeline - from discovery-driven science to translational development and future real-world application. This also showcases the strength of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing clinical and global health challenges.' As these projects move closer to impact, ZJE’s success in Geneva reinforces its mission to advance biomedical science while developing the next generation of innovators equipped to lead in research, industry, and international health. Further information Find out about PhD programmes delivered at the ZJU-UoE Institute in China Other award winning success from the Institute PhD student Isabelle Smith Isabelle Smith receives the Steve Bishop Collaboration for Innovation Award Carving her own path - Dr Yashi Gu Publication date 31 Mar, 2026
