Spotlights

For Shu Chien, a pioneer in the growing field of bioengineering, understanding and learning the marvels of how the human body works has been the foundation of his decades-long quest to advance science and technology worldwide.  The UC San Diego bioengineering professor’s significant scientific endeavors have paved the way for recognition of his renowned work at the university’s Jacobs School of Engineering and abroad.

In honor of his outstanding achievements in physiology and bioengineering research and education, along with international acclaim as a superb scientist and scholar, the President of the Republic of China in Taiwan recently awarded Chien the 2009 Presidential Science Prize. The award was established nine years ago to recognize innovative researchers who have made monumental contributions to international research in the fields of mathematics and physical sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and applied sciences, especially those scholars whose works have had a major impact on the development and applications of these fields in Taiwan.

Over the last two decades, Chien has played a major role in the remarkable progress in biomedical sciences in Taiwan, including the establishment of first-rate research institutions, initiation of exemplary scientific review system, training of talented young scientists, and fostering world-class research. This was the first time the Presidential Prize was given to a scientist working outside of Taiwan with recognition of not only his scientific achievements, but also contributions to the advancement of science in Taiwan.

As a result of his collaborative work with his colleagues and students in and from Taiwan, Chien has made an important impact on life science research in Taiwan, including the enhancement of the international image of biomedical research in the Asian country. His scientific accomplishments have included setting the foundation for research on blood rheology in heath and disease; and pioneering research on the mechanism of signal transduction and gene expression in response to mechanical forces. In 1987, Chien worked with the medical centers in Taiwan to initiate the Medical Oncology Training Program. This inter-institutional program fostered close interactions among the hospitals through these physician trainees, who have made major contributions to the advancement of medical oncology in Taiwan.  In an effort to help train the next generation of scientists and engineers, Chien has organized many international meetings and workshops to introduce state-of-the-art concepts and technologies to thousands of young scientists and students in Taiwan.