The event also recognized recipients of the Fourth National Innovation Pioneer Award. Tang Zhiyong, a researcher at the National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, shared his views on the essential qualities of an excellent scientist. He emphasized the importance of persistence, innovation, and responsibility to serve national strategic needs.

The event honored the "Most Beautiful Science and Technology Workers" of 2026, including Gui Haichao, a professor at Beihang University and China's first payload specialist aboard the Tiangong space station. Gui spoke about the future of space robotics and China's space exploration ambitions, highlighting vast opportunities for researchers to align personal interests with national needs.