Zhentang Zhao: past and future of the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility

A synchrotron light source is familiar to many researchers. Biologists use it to determine structures of proteins and other biomacromolecules; material scientists use it to analyze internal structures of different materials; physicists use it to explore the basic matter states; and physicians use it to perform medical imaging. A high-performance synchrotron light source is often the workhorse supporting a prosperous multi-disciplinary research center. In China, that is the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility (SSRF). Since its opening to users in 2009, SSRF has bred many significant scientific achievements and laid the foundation for the Shanghai Zhangjiang Cluster of Big Science Facilities. On 3 August 2021, National Science Review (NSR) interviewed Professor Zhentang Zhao, Director of the SSRF Science Center and vice president of the Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). Prof. Zhao introduced the construction and development of the synchrotron light source and X-ray free electron laser facilities in Shanghai, as well as how SSRF experiences may be valuable for big science facilities and centers now under construction in China.