On September 29 and October 13, 2025, Ren Jiawen, Researcher and Executive Deputy Director of the State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science at the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, delivered lectures for the course Introduction to Cryospheric Science to the 2023 cohort of undergraduates from the College of Earth and Environmental Sciences in Qinling Hall, Lanzhou University.

Researcher Ren Jiawen provided a comprehensive and detailed overview of the thermodynamic and morphological classification of the cryosphere, its geographic distribution, and the laws governing its zonal patterns. He thoroughly explained the physical foundations of cryospheric formation and development, and focused on the physical characteristics of key cryospheric components—glaciers, permafrost, and snow—covering their physicochemical properties and electromagnetic signatures. He emphasized the importance of studying cryospheric physical processes and the significance of understanding the development and evolution of cryospheric elements.

During the class, Dr. Ren engaged students through thought-provoking questions and guided discussions. This not only enhanced their understanding of the physical characteristics of the cryosphere but, more importantly, cultivated dialectical thinking—encouraging students to identify problems, question boldly, and approach scientific research with humility and rigor.