Peking University, November 30, 2022: Recently, the Alibaba Damo Academy unveiled the list of young Chinese scholars who were awarded Damo Academy Young Fellow. Among them was Dr. Shao Lijing, assistant professor at the Kavli Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics of PKU, who was a former student at PKU and earned his bachelor’s degree in both physics and economics. This award recognized Shao’s tremendous achievements in the field of theoretical physics and astrophysics.
Shao Lijing
For several years, the study of the nature of gravity has greatly promoted the development of physics as the frontier for theoretical physics and astrophysics research. Since 2011, he has devoted himself to this area of research, and much of his studies have been incorporated into the internationally renowned textbook regarding gravitational physics,
Theory and Experiment in Gravitational Physics (2018 ed.). So far, he has proposed many methods to test gravity, and many of his innovative findings have contributed to the high-precision determination of the basic symmetry of space-time and the development of fundamental physics theory.
Shao Lijing teaching a lecture at PKU
PKU School of Physics which aimed to cultivate physics thinking and physics vision of students nurtured Shao’s unwavering love for natural science and knowledge.
Shao also goes by his pseudonym “Useless Doctor,” claiming that it is because he studies
useless and nonexistent objects which are only focused on science or educational materials. According to him, “it is useless because it is relatively useless. It may not be useful now, but it will become useful in the future.” He believes that Physics has had the greatest impact on humanity in the past century.
Upon receiving this recognition, Shao expressed that he was honored to be given this award. He believed that the recognition marks an increasing emphasis on the importance of basic research for the future of the country. With more attention paid to the scholars of basic disciplines, this will drive innovation and encourage young academia to explore uncharted fields of study.
Shao Lijing (first from left) with his students
The Alibaba Damo Academy Young Fellow aims to recognize and support exceptional young scholars in China who are devoted to scientific research in academic and research institutions. As the future backbone of scientific research in China, these young scholars have the potential to achieve breakthroughs in their respective fields of study.
Written by: Vincent Jeong
Edited by: Shi Xinyao
Source: PKU News (
Chinese)
