The WISE Alumni Spotlight: From Curiosity to Independence – Zhejian Cao’s WISE Journey

Today, as an independent researcher with a prestigious VR starting grant, Cao reflects on how WISE shaped both his scientific trajectory and his broader perspective on collaboration and sustainability.

“It was a really wonderful journey with WISE, and anyone who gets involved should be proud to be part of it.”

A materials scientist by training, Cao began his time in WISE as a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Life Sciences at Chalmers University of Technology. Encouraged by his supervisor, Professor Ivan Mijakovic, and collaborator, Professor Lars Öhrström, Cao built on early results from a side project and successfully secured funding through the programme’s first call. This marked the beginning of a research direction that he describes as deeply motivating, both scientifically and in terms of its contribution to a more sustainable future.

A defining strength of the WISE programme, according to Cao, was the freedom it provided. With research themes spanning a broad spectrum of materials science, WISE enabled participants from diverse disciplines to engage and collaborate. Exposure to new ideas during poster sessions, presentations, and cross-disciplinary exchanges became a source of inspiration.

“It stimulates new ideas when you interact with researchers from completely different directions,” Cao notes.

WISE study trip

One of the highlights of his time in WISE was the winter study trip to Lund, where participants visited leading facilities such as MAX IV, Lund University, and Stena Recycling. The experience offered not only insights into cutting-edge research and industry practices, but also valuable opportunities to connect with peers across Sweden.

Beyond research, the programme also played a key role in Cao’s professional development. During his postdoc, he gained advanced technical expertise in material analysis methods such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), as well as essential transferable skills in academic writing, grant preparation, and laboratory management. He also found inspiration in meeting globally recognised researchers invited to WISE events, whose stories of leadership and innovation left a lasting impression.

Perhaps most transformative was Cao’s shift toward interdisciplinary research. Coming from a materials engineering background, he had little prior experience with biological systems. Through WISE, he developed both theoretical and practical skills in bio-related research, allowing him to bridge disciplines and better understand the complexities of interdisciplinary projects.

Academic progression

This experience directly paved the way for his next career step. Today, Cao is based at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala, where he leads his own research supported by a VR starting grant. His current project builds directly on his WISE work, demonstrating the programme’s tangible impact on his academic progression.

Cao remains connected to the WISE network and sees continued value in alumni engagement. He hopes that future developments will create more opportunities for alumni, particularly those outside affiliated universities to remain involved in research calls and collaborative activities.

Looking ahead, Cao is focused on advancing materials science in ways that support sustainability. As a principal investigator, he aims to contribute to the development of innovative materials solutions while fostering collaboration across disciplines.

Reflecting on the broader significance of WISE, Cao emphasises its role in shaping the next generation of researchers. By combining scientific excellence with training in leadership, innovation, and collaboration, the programme equips participants with the tools needed to tackle complex global challenges.

For those considering applying, his advice is clear: WISE offers not only funding and research opportunities, but a platform for growth, connection, and long-term impact.