Elite students from across the world conduct experiments at the School of Life Sciences at Westlake University. [Photo/Westlake University]

This summer, Westlake University in Hangzhou — capital of East China's Zhejiang province — has become a magnet for hundreds of top students from around the world, who are eager to explore the future in the life sciences and AI sectors.

Selected from thousands of applicants, they study under leading scholars, conduct hands-on experiments in cutting-edge labs and delve into cross-disciplinary frontiers.

Beyond learning, the university is also "creating stars" with its teams having delivered breakthroughs ranging from AI-driven drug discoveries to flexible robotics and next-gen solar cells — spawning 51 startups with a combined valuation of 20 billion yuan ($2.79 billion).

By blending world-class research with real-world impact, Westlake is said to be shaping a talent and innovation hub where chasing knowledge means reaching the future.

Expat students discuss a matter at the university. [Photo/Westlake University]