Jiawen Xia is a member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering whose research focuses on heavy-ion accelerator physics and engineering. His work encompasses accelerator design and construction, the development of compact heavy-ion systems, and their medical applications.

He has contributed to the use of high-energy heavy-ion beams for treating deep-seated tumors and to the development and validation of key treatment technologies. As chief engineer, he led the development of China’s first dedicated heavy-ion therapy system. His work includes a compact magnetic focusing structure for a treatment synchrotron with a circumference of 56 meters.

His honors include the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, the Nishikawa Prize, a Ho Leung Ho Lee Foundation award in physics, and a second prize of the National Science and Technology Progress Award.