CAS embraces its big scientific public outreach each May. They call it the CAS Science Week. It means at a certain weekend in May, every CAS institute launches its brand public outreach campaign in different ways to show and tell the public what is science and how science changes our lives. We have the volunteer team in HFIPS telling the story of science island. This time, we invited WANG Teng from ASIPP, HFIPS to tell us more...
This is the fourth of an every-two-day series in two weeks.
Name: WANG Teng
Position: A researcher on design and realization of quench detection of superconducting device at the Institute of Plasma Physics (ASIPP)
"Science popularization planted a seed in my heart and I want to pass the seed on."
How long being engaged in Public Outreach: Five years
1. Could you please describe your job at ASIPP?
I joined ASIPP in 2015 as a PhD student and I have been interested in quench detection of superconducting device. And then I was hired at ASIPP for developing quench detection and quench protection system for large superconducting magnets to ensure safe operation of fusion facility after I received my PhD degree in 2020.
2. When did you join HFIPS’ science popularization? And how did you make the decision?
It dates back to October, 2015 when I was just starting my PhD at ASIPP. One day, I was walking in the campus and I was stopped by Shining Science Club (that then was the science popularization program at ASIPP)’s calling for new. I joined. Well, it was no surprise at all. I have been a big fan of scientific readings when I was young, so it was normal for me to join the Shining Science Club as soon as I saw their calling. I would like to do something that can make a difference with some people who share the same interest with me.
3. Would you like to share your work routine about science popularization?
You know, I worked at ASIPP. So I know well about fusion research, particularly the EAST facility. My job in science popularization is to communicate EAST facility to the public. ASIPP opens its lab tour to the public, so we have hundreds of people visiting the facility each year. If some groups visit us as scheduled, I would be responsible for science display by explaining what is fusion research? What can it do? What is the EAST and what is it composed of? And how does it work and so on.
And we also have some School programs. I do some work in the program preparation and display. Each year, the CAS has a remarkable event for science popularization, which is called Science Week and conventionally scheduled in May. Our Shining Science Club takes a part in the event by launching or organizing some activities. Additionally, I also take a part in some science video producing.
In a word, what I do is to help the public know more and better about science, particularly about fusion research.
4. Do you like science popularization? What does it mean to you?
Yes, I do, definitely. It means a lot to me. When I was a teenager, scientific readings inspired me. It answered many “WHY" in my mind and it seemed like a seed, a seed planted in that little heart to inspire me to explore the science, to explore the unknowns. Science popularization planted a seed in my heart and now I want to pass the seed on. I hope the seed could bloom in the next young generation. This is the most important factor to drive me to do it.
Contact:
ZHAO Weiwei
Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (http://english.hf.cas.cn/)
Email: annyzhao@ipp.ac.cn