Young researchers drive China's fusion energy ambitions

Hefei (ANTARA) - Science Island, located on the outskirts of Hefei in eastern China’s Anhui Province, epitomises China’s innovation and openness in science and technology as it strives to realise future clean energy, while seeking solutions to climate change and health issues through global cooperation.

On this “island”, a group of young and dedicated scientists are taking up the baton and continuing decades of scientific efforts.

Guo Jin joined the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) team after obtaining his doctorate in 2023.

The 30-year-old researcher is involved in upgrading EAST, often referred to as the “artificial sun”. EAST is China’s flagship fusion device that has set numerous world records in nuclear fusion energy research. Guo said he is eager to participate in new experiments following the upgrade.

Meanwhile, Li Xuechun joined the Superconducting Plasma Wall Interaction Linear Device (SWORD) team in 2021.

SWORD, also known as Chixiao (a legendary sword from ancient China), is a high-flux plasma generator used to test plasma-facing materials (PFM).

Together with her colleagues, the female researcher is working hard to develop the device to its optimal condition.