BEIJING -- The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) announced the 2024 Outstanding Science and Technology Achievement Prize on Thursday, recognizing two scientists and 14 scientific achievements.

Chen Liquan from the Institute of Physics at the CAS and Chen Xianhui from the University of Science and Technology of China were honored with the Individual Achievement Award.

Chen Liquan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, has dedicated over four decades to lithium battery research since 1976. He established the field of solid-state ionics in China and spearheaded the country's early efforts in lithium battery research and development. His contributions have laid the foundation and paved the way for the continuous advancement of China's lithium battery industry.

Chen Xianhui, an academician of the CAS, has made significant strides in the frontier fields of quantum materials, including Kagome superconductors, interface superconductivity, and magnetic topological insulators. His pioneering work has established a solid physical foundation for the technological advancement of quantum materials, driving the progress of cutting-edge research in the field.

Four projects, including studies on the early formation and evolution of the Milky Way and the multi-timescale environmental evolution of Mars, were awarded the Basic Research Award.