Yunnan University accelerates infrastructure development

The site of the new Chenggong Campus student dormitories. [Photo/WeChat account of Yunnan University]

Yunnan University in Kunming, capital of Southwest China's Yunnan province, is advancing its infrastructure development to support scientific innovation and strategic industry services.

The main structures of the university's Carbon Neutrality Innovation Center and Health Science Research Center were recently completed, and a new student dormitory project is under construction at Chenggong Campus.

The Carbon Neutrality Innovation Center aims to become a key hub for policy innovation and scientific breakthroughs supporting Yunnan's green transformation. It will serve as a critical platform for delivering scientific achievements that contribute to the region's sustainable development.

The Health Science Research Center will use Yunnan's geographic and ethnic diversity to promote interdisciplinary research in biopharmaceuticals, traditional medicine, environmental protection, health food development, and advanced medical technology. The goal is to foster innovation and distinct strengths that support the province's health-related industries and talent development.

The recently constructed Health Science Research Center of Yunnan University. [Photo/WeChat account of Yunnan University]

These efforts will broaden the university's academic support for Yunnan's key industries, including new materials, green energy, the digital economy, plateau-featured modern agriculture, biomedicine, and cultural tourism.

In addition, the new dormitories, with 1,161 rooms capable of housing 4,644 students, are expected to be completed and put into use by September this year.

A rendering of the student dormitory project. [Photo/WeChat account of Yunnan University]

Another major development is the anticipated construction launch of the National Key Laboratory for Vegetation Structure and Function, which is expected to begin this year. Led by Yunnan University, this is the only national key laboratory approved among universities in Yunnan province. It will focus on pioneering global vegetation research and enhancing China's ecological protection and development capabilities.

The infrastructure investment for the key laboratory is projected to reach 490 million yuan ($66.9 million). Upon completion, the Chenggong Campus will host a comprehensive research platform, including the key laboratory, the Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biological Invasion, and the Key Laboratory for Biomedicine. This will significantly enhance the university's disciplinary layout and improve the quality of talent cultivation.