Qingdao started the twelfth edition of a major talent recruitment event on Sept 9, bringing in nearly a thousand PhD graduates from top schools across China like Peking University and Tsinghua University. The goal is to add youthful energy and top talent to the city.

Through job fairs, company tours, lab tours, and cultural events, participants saw Qingdao's lively industries and open city vibe.

"Qingdao is a city full of chances," said Xu Yongjie, a PhD from Zhejiang University. "Its mix of industry drive and open culture is really appealing."

Since 2014, the event has drawn over 10,000 PhD participants, with over 3,000 choosing to work or start businesses in Qingdao. This year, over 3,200 positions were offered in fields like AI, marine tech, and new materials, with some companies offering salaries up to 600,000 yuan ($84,262.2) a year.

Companies like Hanhe Cable and Qingdao Bright Moon Seaweed Group have successfully recruited top R&D talent from past events. Qingdao pre-screened CVs and matched openings with its top industries to improve fit.

Beyond career opportunities, the city set up tech shows, industry camps, and cultural tours, letting PhDs connect with local research and city life. Many attendees left impressed, with one saying, "Seeing is believing — Qingdao has strong appeal."

The event has become a key spot for talent in Qingdao, backed by strong policies covering housing help, research funds, and startup loans, making the city a top spot for young talent globally.

Qingdao launches the twelfth edition of a major high-level talent recruitment initiative on Sept 9. [Photo/Guanhai News]