With over half a century’s development, the Institute of Metal Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IMR CAS) has firmly established itself as an indispensable base for materials science and engineering research in China. The first 50 years also witnessed strategic contributions IMR made to Chinese economic growth and many landmark technological achievements. Fostering young talents has always been an integral part of the institute’s mission, and IMR succeeded in forging generations of materials researchers and inventors through the unique CAS graduate education program.

The new century saw the establishment of Shenyang National Laboratory for Materials Science (2001), the first of its kind in China, and subsequently the creation of Shenyang R&D Centre for Advanced Materials (2003), a platform for the integration of high-technology materials research. These transformations coincided with and indeed were invigorated by the first and second phase of the CAS Knowledge Innovation Project. Never before in IMR history have we created so clear footprints at the frontiers of materials science or built such viable capacities for the innovation and validation of materials technology as in the past few years. The stage of sustainable development has been set and we have reasons to anticipate flourishing high-quality output both in pushing the frontiers and in satisfying national strategic requirements. In an increasingly tight-binding global environment research exchange and collaboration are as vital for us as air for breath. IMR will strive to strengthen existing partnerships with other academic institutions as well as shaping new ones.

It is an appropriate occasion for me to express our sincere appreciation to those who have nurtured and supported IMR. Inspired people with a creative mind who identify with our cause are always welcome to join us.

Prof. Dr. Ke LU  

                                  Director of IMR CAS