On December 3, 2024, the International Magnesium Institute (IMI) held the graduation defense of Dr. Siwen Zhang and Dr. Xiaojun Yani in Conference room C603, Chengzhi Building, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University. The chairman of the doctoral graduation defense committee was Dr. Boqi Weng, a researcher from the Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The experts who participated in the defense were Professor Chunjian Li from China Agricultural University, Professor Hong Liao from Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Professor Xuexian Li from China Agricultural and Forestry University, and Dr. Baige Zhang, a researcher from Vegetable Research Institute of Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences. The defense committee secretary was Lecturer Yifei Ma from Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University.

During the defense, Dr. Zhang Siwen presented her research titled “Causes of Soil Acidification and Zonal Management Strategies in Typical Cropping Systems of Southern China,” while Dr. Yan Xiaojun delivered a detailed report on his study, “Limiting Factors and Pathways for Quality and Efficiency Improvement in Guanxi Pomelo Production.” Both doctoral candidates provided comprehensive overviews of their research work and highlighted the innovative aspects of their dissertations. The experts highly appreciate the research achievements of the two doctoral candidates and provided valuable suggestions for further improvement of their dissertations and exploring future research directions. We extend our sincere gratitude to all the experts who participated in the defense for their insightful feedback and guidance!

Finally, the defense committee held an internal meeting to discuss and approve the defense resolution.  After thorough deliberation and a unanimous vote by all committee members, both doctoral candidates successfully passed their dissertation defenses and were recommended for the award of a Ph.D. in Agriculture. The doctoral dissertation defense concluded successfully.