The well-known statement by the British physicist Isaac Newton—“standing on the shoulders of giants”- encapsulates the principle of building upon prior knowledge to achieve new advances.

In 2026, Tzu Chi marks its 60th anniversary, together with the 40th anniversary of Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital. In this significant year, the Pan Pacific Symposium on Stem Cells and Cancer Research (PPSSC), guided by this principle, addresses the urgent need for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Rooted in Taiwan with a global perspective, PPSSC aligns with the latest international advances in stem cell and cancer research, strengthens research capacity, and promotes collaborative efforts to improve patient care.

We are privileged to have a distinguished group of experts from various institutions here to share their latest findings. I encourage everyone to engage actively in discussions, as your insights will enrich our collective understanding and foster collaboration. The program for PPSSC 2026 has copious main themes:
1. In vivo reprogramming: a manufacturing revolution in cell therapy.
2. Convergence of AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology.
3. New standards for preclinical research: from animal models to organoids.
4. The green force in medicine: development and applications of plant stem cells.
5. Stem cell–based regenerative medicine: research progress and preclinical prospects.
6. Cell-free Regenerative medicine: Extracellular vesicles and beyond.

I extend my sincere gratitude to all organizers, speakers, and participants for making this event possible. I look forward to the inspiring discussions ahead and the potential breakthroughs in our research.

We welcome you once again to PPSSC 2026 and experience the diverse culture and hospitably of Hualien!

Shinn-Zong Lin, M.D., Ph.D.
Superintendent, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation
President of The Buddhist Tzu Chi Bioinnovation Center
Professor of Neurosurgery, Tzu Chi University

Fellow of National Academy of Inventor (USA)
Fellow of American Association of Advancement of Science (USA)