From April 15 to 23, the 60th International Mendeleev Chemistry Olympiad (IMChO 2026) was held in Moscow, Russia. Hosted by Lomonosov Moscow State University, the event attracted 160 top chemistry students from 35 countries and regions along the Belt and Road, as well as BRICS nations etc., to compete together. Entrusted by the organising committee, the selection and organisation of Chinese contestants were entirely undertaken by the College of Chemistry at Nankai University.

 The competition featured two theoretical exams and one practical exam. The Chinese contestants secured four gold medals and one silver medal. Among them, Wang Zihan from the High School Attached to Northeast Normal University won a gold medal, ranking first globally in total score and first in the practical exam; Tan Bowen from Chengdu Foreign Languages School also secured a gold medal, ranking third globally in total score, and first in the theoretical exam worldwide; Mu Keqi from Tianjin No.1 High School and Zhao Yafei from Beijing National Day School both won gold medals; Yan Lingxiao from Tianjin No.1 High School received a silver medal.

The mentor team, led by the College of Chemistry at Nankai University, included Zhang Mingtao as the team leader, Li Jing as the deputy team leader, Kong Yue from Tianjin Xueersi School, Wang Jiang from Chengdu Foreign Languages School, and Wang Shuai from Beijing National Day School serving as observers.  

Before each exam, the mentor team was responsible for accurately translating the competition materials to ensure that Chinese contestants could fully understand the competition content and its requirements. During the competition, the teachers closely monitored the contestants' conditions, providing timely psychological support and technical guidance. 

Before the competition in Moscow, the delegation visited the Chinese Embassy in Russia and held a cordial meeting with Zhao Chunlu, the Counsellor of the Education Department. Counsellor Zhao warmly welcomed the arrival of the Chinese contestants and encouraged them to cherish this rare opportunity for international exchange, strive for excellent results, and bring honour to the country.

It is understood that as an important hub for chemistry education in China, the College of Chemistry at Nankai University has been actively participating in and promoting the development of the International Chemistry Olympiad games since 2022. Since its inception in 1967, the International Mendeleev Chemistry Olympiad has been held 60 times. It is one of the highest-level scientific and technological competitions for young people worldwide and enjoys a high reputation internationally. （News source: Nankai University News ）