From April 22nd to 23rd, 2025, Professor Chenfeng Li from Swansea University in the UK was invited to visit Liaoning Technical University(LNTU), where he delivered two thematic academic lectures at both Fuxin Campus and Huludao Campus. The lectures focused on topics including “International Academic Planning and Research Practice”, “Educational and Research Resources as well as Student Life at Swansea University”, and “Innovative Applications of Simulation and Artificial Intelligence Technologies”, attracting nearly 500 faculty members and students.
Professor Chenfeng Li, an internationally renowned expert in engineering computation, currently serves as the Director of Zienkiewicz Institute for Simulation, Data, and Artificial Intelligence at Swansea University and Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious journal Engineering Computations. A graduate of the Department of Engineering Mechanics at Tsinghua University, Professor Li earned his Ph.D. from Swansea University under the guidance of the eminent computational mechanics scholar Academician Owen. He has made groundbreaking contributions to fields such as heterogeneous materials and computational multiphase systems.
In his lectures, Professor Li shared insights into the opportunities and challenges of international academic collaboration, drawing from his personal experiences. He highlighted the Zienkiewicz Institute’s role as a global leader in computational mechanics, emphasizing its commitment to interdisciplinary innovation in engineering computation, data science, and artificial intelligence. Notable advancements include research on non-destructive testing powered by AI, development of digital twins for temporary structures, and simulation applications in energy and civil engineering. Professor Li also showcased the institute’s collaborative projects with industry giants such as BASF and ARUP, which have driven technological solutions for low-carbon energy and ecological governance.
Following the lectures, students expressed great enthusiasm. Zhang, an undergraduate from School of Mechanical Engineering, remarked, “Professor Li’s insights into cutting-edge technologies like digital twins have reshaped my understanding of their practical applications. I aspire to apply for Swansea University’s joint training programs in the future.” Guang, a student from School of Electronics and Information Engineering, noted, “The detailed guidance on study abroad planning and scholarship opportunities provided invaluable reference material.”
Professor Li’s visit reinforced the longstanding partnership between LNTU and Swansea University. Since establishing the Hywel R. Thomas Academician Workstation in 2021, the two institutions have collaborated on joint research in coalbed methane extraction, CO2 sequestration, and LNTU’s “Double First-Class” discipline development. During this visit, Professor Li and LNTU leadership further discussed expanding collaborative fields to accelerate the university’s internationalization. The exchange solidified the strategic partnership between the two institutions, paving the way for broader cooperation in talent cultivation, technological innovation, and industry-academia synergy.
