Former ROC Vice President Academician Chien-Jen Chen was appointed by Pope Francis as a new member of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, the second scholar from Taiwan so honored following former Academia Sinica President Yuan-Tseh Lee.

Dr. Chien-Jen Chen graduated from the Graduate Institute of Public Health, National Taiwan University in 1977, and received his Sc.D in human genetics and epidemiology from Johns Hopkins University in 1982. His research interests include epidemiology, human genetics, public health, and preventive medicine, with notable contributions in public health and epidemiology.

An internationally renowned scientist, Dr. Chen has received numerous honors throughout his distinguished career, including elected Academia Sinica Academician in 1998, international member of the National Academy of Sciences (U.S.) in 2017, member of the World Academy of Sciences in 2005, and fellow of the American College of Epidemiology in 1993. Apart from academic endeavors, Dr. Chen is ardent in the practice of his faith, and has received the Pontifical Equestrian Order of St. Gregory the Great, and the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.

In addition, due to his abundant experience in public affairs and administration, Dr. Chen has served in numerous eminent roles both in the government and at Academia Sinica, including Vice President of the Republic of China, Minister of the Department of Health, and Minister of the National Science Council, as well as Genomics Research Center Distinguished Professor and Vice President of Academia Sinica.

Regardless of their nationality, race, political views, and religious faith, candidates for the Pontifical Academy of Sciences are recommended for their scholarly achievements and moral fiber, elected by members, and appointed by the Pope. There are currently 80 members of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences.