David J. Helfand, a faculty member at Columbia University for forty years, served nearly half of that time as Chair of the Department of Astronomy. He also recently completed a four-year term as President of the American Astronomical Society, the professional society for astronomers, astrophysicists, planetary scientists and solar physicists in North America. He is the author of nearly 200 scientific publications and has mentored 22 PhD students, but most of his pedagogical efforts have been aimed at teaching science to non-science majors. He instituted the first change in Columbia's Core Curriculum in 50 years by introducing science to all first-year students.

Tsinghua students, faculty, and staff may present a valid Tsinghua ID Card to access this event. Attendees who do not have a valid Tsinghua ID may register by sending an email with the name, organization affiliation, and contact phone number for each attendee to rsvp@sc.tsinghua.edu.cn. Guests will be admitted on a first come basis until all seating is full.This lecture will be delivered in English.