Celebrating Global Scholarship: The 5th Annual J. Yang Symposium

October 23, 2025 — On September 27th, the Institute of Engineering in Medicine (IEM) hosted the 5th Annual J. Yang Symposium, celebrating the enduring academic partnership between the J. Yang Family and Foundation and UC San Diego. The symposium brought together faculty and students to highlight the impact of the J. Yang Scholarship Program, which supports the next generation of scholars from Taiwan and UC San Diego.

Established through a $1.5 million gift from the J. Yang Family and Foundation and matched by UC San Diego for a total investment of $3 million, the program funds undergraduate and graduate scholarships, summer research internships, travel awards, and faculty residencies hosted between Taiwan and UCSD. Each year, the symposium serves as a platform for sharing research progress and the further development of participating young scholars.

This year’s symposium introduced the 2025 J. Yang Scholars and presented the research progress of the 2024 scholars, an exceptional cohort whose research spans business analytics, quantitative finance, electrical and computer engineering, accounting, public health, women’s history and astronomy. Throughout the event, faculty and scholars emphasized how the program’s structure creates a unique exchange between UC San Diego and Taiwanese institutions. 

As the symposium concluded, leaders from UC San Diego expressed their gratitude to the J. Yang Family and Foundation. Their support continues to open doors for promising students and researchers, empowering them to bridge cultures, advance science, and drive positive impact across borders.

The J. Yang Symposium not only celebrates academic achievement but also strengthens the spirit of global collaboration that defines UC San Diego’s mission. We look forward to witnessing how future J. Yang Scholars will continue to contribute to the advancement of their fields.