Abstract: This study systematically examines the current advancements of project-based learning (PBL) and generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI) in chemical education, while addressing the practical challenges encountered in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) chemistry laboratory teaching. The research focuses on exploring the synergistic potential of integrating these two approaches in TCM chemistry experimental education. Utilizing our teaching group's established tiered experimental framework—which includes confirmatory, comprehensive, and independent design experiments—we demonstrate the application of these methodologies through specific case studies, such as palmatine preparation from Fibraureae Caulis and rutin extraction from Sophorae Flos. The investigation systematically explores implementation pathways for incorporating PBL combined with Gen-AI throughout three key phases: pre-laboratory preparation, in-laboratory experimentation, and post-laboratory assessment. By integrating theoretical analysis with practical case studies, this work provides actionable guidance for developing a modern, effective experimental teaching paradigm in TCM chemistry education.

Key words: Traditional Chinese medicine chemistry experiment, Project-based learning, Generative artificial intelligence, Integration