Dear President Liao, Vice Presidents, NCHU President Jan, Former Director Wu, Former IPMB Directors, Distinguished Guests, Colleagues, and Friends:
First of all, I would like to thank all the distinguished guests for taking the time out of your busy schedules to attend this ceremony. I stand here today with a heart full of gratitude. I sincerely thank President Liao and the Search Committee for believing in me, as well as the support and encouragement of many mentors and colleagues, which have allowed me the opportunity to serve today as the Director of the Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology (IPMB).
In 2016, when President Liao took office as the President of Academia Sinica, his words had a profound impact on me and gave me the courage to take on this great responsibility. Director Liao once expressed that he sees himself as an ordinary person, stepping up to help when his "family" needs him—a sentiment that reflects his deep commitment to Taiwan and Academia Sinica. While we all recognize that he is far from ordinary, his words deeply inspired me. They reminded me that even those of us who see ourselves as ordinary can achieve extraordinary things through determination and effort. For Director Liao, this meant dedicating himself to the greater "family" of our academic and national community, exemplified by his return from UCLA, USA. For me, without the nurturing environment of IPMB over the past 23 years, I would not be who I am today. Therefore, when IPMB calls upon me, I see it as my responsibility to step forward and take on the role of Director.
Today, IPMB's academic achievements and international visibility rival those of many renowned institutions. This success stems from Academia Sinica's exceptional research environment and the collective efforts of previous IPMB directors, researchers, technical teams, and administrative colleagues. I am honored to assume the role of Director during this flourishing period for IPMB, but I am also keenly aware of the significant responsibility it entails. Former Director Wu, during her six-year tenure, made significant contributions by enhancing IPMB's infrastructure and resources, enabling colleagues to focus on their research. Her emphasis on communication and coordination fostered academic exchange and collaboration through regular and thematic brainstorming sessions, further elevating IPMB's reputation. Her selfless dedication is truly admirable. On behalf of IPMB, I extend to her my deepest respect and gratitude.
In recent years, IPMB has recruited several outstanding new-generation faculty, invigorating the academic atmosphere. Many colleagues have achieved remarkable academic accomplishments, earning numerous domestic and international awards and honors, which is truly encouraging. Yet, we must not rest on our laurels, as I firmly believe only the sky is the limit for IPMB's potential. Since deciding to apply for the role of Director, I have often pondered on how I can contribute. Through this reflection, I realized that everyone possesses unlimited potential. On this inaugural day, I've set my mission: to "Inspire the potential of IPMB colleagues and carve out IPMB's research spotlights." I aim to serve as a catalyst and mentor, identifying exceptional talent and fostering more groundbreaking discoveries. My vision is for every researcher, from PIs to graduate students, to confidently summarize their proudest scientific discovery in one sentence.
Academia Sinica's mission is not solely about research; we also bear a social responsibility. In this regard, I aspire to continue fostering IPMB's harmonious and free academic atmosphere, working hand in hand with colleagues toward Academia Sinica's three visionary objectives:
1. Achieve global peaks of excellence: Actively promote scientific exchanges and collaborations among colleagues within IPMB and with domestic and international partners, achieving world-class research in plant and microbial biology.
2. Fulfil social responsibilities in crucial areas: While advancing fundamental research, remain mindful of addressing critical societal scientific issues. When society faces challenges related to plants, crops, or microbes, I hope IPMB can make meaningful contributions.
3. Attract and cultivate top talent: Strive to recruit and nurture research talent in plant and microbial sciences, engaging in outreach education for high school and university students, collaborating with universities to cultivate outstanding graduate students, and attracting top global talent to Academia Sinica. By fostering an exceptional research environment, we can empower them to conduct groundbreaking research and and establish strong roots at IPMB.
Today, I stand on the shoulders of giants, allowing me to climb higher and see farther. However, the heights can be lonely, and I may inevitably encounter blind spots or oversights. I humbly seek the guidance and advice of mentors and colleagues to help IPMB continue to improve. IPMB is a harmonious and vibrant family, and I am proud to be part of it. I look forward to working with everyone in the future to achieve more groundbreaking research at the global level. By the time Academia Sinica celebrates its centennial in 2028, I hope IPMB will be one of its brightest highlights.
Sincerely,
Erh-Min Lai
Director and Research Fellow
Insitute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica
Jan. 10, 2025
