Abstract
In continuation of our ongoing stakeholder dialogs,1,2,3 it is with great pleasure that we present a compelling new stakeholder’s dialog penned by the esteemed Prof. Gaoqing Max Lu. Prof. Lu brings a wealth of leadership and scientific expertise to the forefront, as evidenced by his significant contributions to materials science, clean energy innovation, and the global academic community. With a distinguished career that includes his current role as president and vice chancellor of the University of Wollongong, Australia, and his previous tenure as president of the University of Surrey, UK, Prof. Lu has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering global collaboration. His pivotal roles, including serving on the UK Prime Minister’s Council for Science and Technology, alongside his election to numerous prestigious academies worldwide, such as the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Australian Academy of Science, The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, underscore his profound impact on an international scale. He was also honored with the Order of Australia (AO) for his distinguished service to engineering and education. It is a privilege for us to showcase Prof. Lu’s invaluable insights in our publication, enriching our understanding of the critical alignment needed among policy, industry, and AI-powered R&D. His dialog provides a powerful blueprint for how resource-rich nations can overcome the commercialization “valley of death” and transform natural endowments into lasting global leadership in the clean energy transition.
Prof. Jerry Yan
Editor-in-Chief, Nexus