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How do I define myself?

I am a petrologist and a geochemist specializing in extracting valuable information from hard rocks. My expertise lies in the study of igneous and metamorphic rocks, such as natrocarbonatite, skarns, and metacarbonate rocks, where I find the intersection of traditional petrology, geochemistry, economic geology, and environmental sciences particularly compelling.

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In my spare time, I enjoy doing voice-over work, calligraphy, drawing, and cooking (I am a very good chef)! These activities help me relax and stay calm. Additionally, calligraphy and drawing enhance my ability to create appealing cartoons and illustrations, as you'll see below.

My hobbies and passions?

I have a particular passion for creating reader-friendly illustrations for scientific papers. I constantly brainstorm ways to transform complex, and sometimes tedious scientific figures into vivid yet professional visuals. I believe that while the scientific significance of work is important, having a series of simple and easy-to-understand illustrations is a crucial medium for promoting science.

 

Additionally, I enjoy engaging in science communication, such as outreach activities, whether it’s with non-geology undergrads or even high school students. I think that the foundation of explaining professional concepts in a clear and accessible manner is having a deep understanding of the subject matter. Being able to convey these concepts to non-experts also helps me better communicate my research in the future.

Below are two example schematic illustrations:

EPSL model figure.png

Zhou et al., 2024 EPSL

Credit to Zhou, 2021

The vision of my Research group

An inclusive, respectful, caring, professional group!

Inclusivity is the cornerstone of the group I envision. Inclusiveness encompasses a wide range of values. For example, students and scholars from diverse backgrounds may join my research group, some of whom may initially struggle with certain aspects and feel less confident. In such cases, fostering an inclusive environment and providing tailored guidance is essential for maintaining a mentally healthy and supportive atmosphere.

 

Respect is fundamental in our group. I deeply respect each team member's individuality, interests, work style, and preferences. I recognize that students with varied backgrounds will inevitably have different learning curves, and I am committed to respecting and understanding the unique challenges each member may face.

 

Care is another key element of the group. I care about the progress of each team member and how they manage stress. While stress is an unavoidable part of meeting deadlines, science should be an enjoyable and fulfilling pursuit. As a leader, I am particularly attentive to the mental well-being of my team members and will provide the necessary support when needed.

 

Professionalism underpins everything we do. Building on the values of inclusivity, respect, and care, I will provide mentorship that helps each member achieve their career goals. My advising style will strike a balance between hands-on guidance and hands-off independence, ensuring that students make meaningful progress while also having the freedom to explore their own ideas.

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