Pioneering marine scientist awarded 'Role Model' title

Wan Buyan, China's pioneer scientist on marine resource exploration, was awarded the title "Role Model of the Times" by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

Wan, a 59-year-old professor at the Hunan University of Science and Technology, is also a member of the CPC and a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress.

According to a China Media Group report, he focuses on the major strategic needs of China and has been researching marine resource exploration technology for more than 30 years.

He has led his team to resolve key core technical problems and has made pioneering contributions to the research and development of marine mineral exploration technology and equipment in China, it said.

In addition, Wan has built a high-level innovation team and has trained a large number of young scientific and technological professionals.

Moreover, he has presided over a series of key scientific research programs, including the 863 Program, a national high-tech development plan, and over 40 provincial-or-ministerial-level scientific research projects.