Can you say a few words about yourself?
I was born in a historic city in northeast China with more than two thousand years of history, known for its ancient architecture spanning multiple dynasties and as the starting point of the Great Wall. Beijing and Paris have played significant roles in my life. After completing my high school, undergraduate studies, and a Master’s degree in Energy at Paris Sciences et Lettres University (University PSL), I am now honored to be pursuing a joint PhD in Environmental Science at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and Aix-Marseille University (AMU).
Did you choose your profession or did it choose you?
I once worked on applied research in industrial fields, such as developing catalysts for coal chemistry. However, these experiences made me deeply aware of the critical importance of environmental protection in today’s society. As a result, I decided to shift my focus from industrial applied research to environmental science, with the hope of contributing to sustainable development and the global community in this new era.
What attracted you to join LAPI?
LAPI has visionary leaders and outstanding researchers, with research directions focusing on cutting-edge topics such as air pollution. The diversity and breadth of its research themes align perfectly with my own academic interests, and the chemical analysis component—central to my doctoral research—is precisely what attracted me to join this exceptional team.
Can you speak about the projects you are currently working on and other ones in the past?
I interned and conducted research with several Fortune Global 500 corporations, where I analyzed catalyst efficiency for coal chemistry trials and assessed mine and groundwater quality. During my master’s at PSL, I joined French Petroleum Institute (IFPEN) and Ecole d’Ingénieur de Purpan in Toulouse to analyze soil thermal stability and carbon content.
My doctoral research primarily investigates the impact of biomass burning particles in the Mediterranean region on marine ecosystems and the carbon cycle. Specifically, it explores the dynamics and evolution of biomass burning products across the atmosphere–ocean–sediment interfaces. Chemical analysis, statistical analysis, and modeling approaches provide essential support for my work.
What have been some of your biggest challenges?
When I first arrived in France, the language barrier was my greatest challenge. However, I soon realized that people would not judge me for occasional spelling mistakes or for using the subjunctive incorrectly. Today, that challenge is a thing of the passé composé. I have turned what was once a “weakness” into a strength, and I am now able to speak multiple languages fluently.
What have been some of your biggest successes?
My greatest success so far is simply the life I am living now. Of course, I believe it is still too early to draw any conclusions, as I am convinced that the future holds endless possibilities.
You split your time between teaching and research. How do you view these two roles?
I believe in learning through research and researching through learning.
What do you enjoy to do, outside of science and research?
As a sports enthusiast, most of my free time and weekends are devoted to basketball and swimming. I am not the type who enjoys staying at home—I love traveling and have already visited more than 20 provinces in China and over 30 countries around the world. In addition, I have a strong passion for reading, with a particular interest in Western philosophy and ancient Chinese philosophy.
Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?
At 14, I visited the Jungfrau in Switzerland. The challenges of the climb and the breathtaking scenery at the summit made me forget both the discomfort of altitude sickness and the weight of the oxygen tank. That experience gave me a profound appreciation for the power of perseverance and left me with an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
A free thought for the end?
I am deeply grateful to my open-minded parents and my whole family for raising me, as well as to all the teachers who have positively influenced and supported me along my life journey so far.