On December 28, 2025, the final results of the fifth “Shanghai Science & Technology 35 Under 35” were officially announced. Li Hongjie, a dual-appointed assistant professor and researcher at the Center for Transformative Science and the School of Life Science and Technology at ShanghaiTech University, received the nomination award in the “Global Frontiers of Science and Technology” category for his outstanding achievements in the research direction of “molecular movies” of protein chemical reactions, demonstrating the innovative vitality and academic strength of young scientists at ShanghaiTech University.
Research Highlight｜Capturing “Movies” of Molecules
Li Hongjie’s team focuses on visualizing transient changes in protein chemical reactions: by creating “molecular movies,” they transform invisible moments into analyzable information, revealing the spatiotemporal processes of key steps in protein-driven life activities. This work opens new pathways for understanding life processes and holds significant scientific implications and application potential.
Li Hongjie has long been engaged in pioneering research at the intersection of chemical biology and structural biology. Leveraging the interdisciplinary research platform of ShanghaiTech University’s Center for Transformative Science, he focuses on developing time-resolved serial femtosecond crystallography (TR-SFX) technology based on X-ray free-electron lasers (XFEL). This technology captures transient structural changes in proteins during biological functions on timescales ranging from femtoseconds to milliseconds, systematically elucidating the dynamic molecular mechanisms of life reactions. His work drives “molecular movie” research toward higher temporal and spatial resolutions. Related research findings have been published in top-tier international academic journals such as Nature and Nature Chemistry.
What is the “Shanghai Science & Technology 35 Under 35” Initiative?
The “Shanghai Science & Technology 35 Under 35” initiative selects 35 awardees and 15 nominees across strategic directions such as global frontiers of science and technology, economic development, national major needs, and people’s life and health. It aims to explore evaluation and selection mechanisms that better facilitate the emergence of young scientific and technological talent, fostering and nurturing a group of young scientists and technologists with global vision and innovative influence.
* This article was primarily generated by DeepSeek.