Quantum Physicist Zhu Zijie Leaves ETH Zurich for Fudan University

The young researcher's return to China highlights the global competition for scientific talent.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:58am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly structured abstract painting in soft, flat colors depicting sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals, conceptually representing the complex forces and concepts of quantum physics.Zhu Zijie's return to China highlights the global competition for scientific talent and the need to balance national ambition with international collaboration.Today in Orlando

Zhu Zijie, a 30-year-old quantum physicist, has decided to leave his prestigious position at ETH Zurich in Switzerland to return to China and join the faculty at Fudan University. Zhu's work on the behavior of cold atoms has earned him recognition in top scientific journals, and his move highlights China's growing ambition to attract top global talent through initiatives like the 'Xianghui' program.

Why it matters

Zhu's decision raises questions about the balance between international scientific collaboration and national ambition. While China's efforts to recruit leading researchers are commendable, the global scientific community must also maintain an environment that fosters the free exchange of ideas across borders.

The details

At just 30 years old, Zhu Zijie had already achieved remarkable success, publishing groundbreaking research in journals like Science and Nature. His work on the behavior of cold atoms earned him a prestigious position at ETH Zurich, the alma mater of Albert Einstein. However, Zhu has now decided to leave Switzerland and return to China, where he will join the faculty at Fudan University as part of the 'Xianghui' program, an initiative aimed at attracting top scientific talent to the country.

  • Zhu Zijie, age 30, made the decision to leave ETH Zurich in early 2026.
  • Zhu will begin his new role at Fudan University in September 2026.

The players

Zhu Zijie

A 30-year-old quantum physicist who has decided to leave his position at ETH Zurich in Switzerland to join the faculty at Fudan University in China.

Fudan University

A prestigious university in China that has launched the 'Xianghui' program to attract top scientific talent from around the world.

ETH Zurich

A renowned technical university in Switzerland, known as the alma mater of Albert Einstein, where Zhu Zijie previously held a prestigious research position.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Zhu Zijie will begin his new role at Fudan University in September 2026, marking the start of a new chapter in his scientific career.

The takeaway

Zhu Zijie's journey highlights the global competition for scientific talent and the need to balance national ambition with the free flow of ideas across borders. As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges, the contributions of researchers like Zhu will be crucial in driving innovation and progress.