An Interview with Dr. Ruijie Liu
Dr. Liu became a member in 2012 and talks more about her involvement with AOCS, why she joined the PE CIG, what she loves most about her work and how she relaxes outside of work.
1. Why did you join AOCS and how long have you been a member?
As we all know, AOCS advances the science and technology of oils, fats and related materials, enriching the lives of people everywhere. It is not an overstatement to say that AOCS is my global fats and oils connection. As a young oil chemist, it was a great honor to join this outstanding society. Becoming a member of AOCS has allowed me not only to broaden my professional horizons but also to advance my career. I became a member in 2012 and have had eight years of invaluable experiences thanks to AOCS.
2. How has your involvement with AOCS influenced your career?
Since I became an AOCS member, I have been contributing oral presentations to the annual meetings. I have made many new friends and colleagues and participated in launching an international joint lab, which stemmed from my involvement with AOCS. This year, I advanced to the title of professor, which I believe my involvement with AOCS played a significant role in and so I feel I have AOCS to thank for that.
3. Why did you decide to join the PE-CIG?
I joined the PE CIG as it provides me a new opportunity to promote excellence in teaching through discussion and the exchange of ideas. With this additional membership, I can collaborate with educators around the world, working together to create an environment of academic excellence in my classroom. My involvement came about as a result of a warm invitation from a friend and colleague.
4. What led you to where you are now? Talk about previous jobs, school, other life journeys that led you to where you are.
“Interest” always moves/leads me forward. I have been studying and working in Jiangnan University since 2011. Jiangnan University is a competitive place as many excellent colleagues work here. I always remind myself to keep a peaceful heart and a sensitive mind. Science needs “interest”.
5. What do you love most about your position?
The sense of achievement from my teaching and researching.
6. How do you define success?
To me, success is a state of self-satisfaction. Whether this self-satisfaction is from being a well-known scientist or a teacher, these are all types of success. If I can make the lives of people around me a little better; that is the mark of success for me.
7. Who inspires you? Or who has been the most influential person in your career?
Both my Ph.D. supervisor at Jiangnan University and co-supervisor at Cornell University have inspired me the most. They both taught me not only science itself, but also ways to think scientifically. They both set a prime example of how to guide students as a teacher.
8. If you could give advice to young AOCS members, what would it be?
Work Hard, Work Smart.
9. What is something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
Baking with my daughter. That is my happiest moment, the moment I feel her happiness.
10. What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Reading. In my opinion, reading can not only broaden our vision but also cultivate our taste. Reading helps me escape from any unhappy things I might be dealing with in my day-to-day reality. I believe it is important and necessary for us to spend time reading what we are interested in. I am always reading something.
No comments:
Post a Comment