On December 14, the Chinese Association of Science and Technology published the candidates of the 15th Youth Science and Technology Award of China. There are totally 100 candidates of the Award, including 10 winner of the special award. Prof. Xiulian Pan was selected as the candidate of 15th Youth Science and Technology Award because of her achievements in the direct conversion of syngas to light olefins.

The Youth Science and Technology Award of China was established by the Central Organization Department, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the Chinese Association of Science and Technology and the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League in September 1987. It aims to cultivate the world-class top scientists and international leading strategic talents. The award was first awarded in 1988. It is selected every two years, with a total of 100 winners each time.