The team of researchers from ZRC SAZU, Slovenia is currently carrying out research secondments at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) in Suzhou, China. This collaboration provides them with a vibrant environment to explore and engage in scientific exchange. XJTLU is a dynamic institution offering over 100 degree programmes spanning science, engineering, business, finance, architecture, urban planning, language, and culture.

Upon their arrival at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, they were warmly greeted by Emily Williams, Head of the Department of China Studies and her team, especially Leif Johnson and Dragan Pavličević, setting the stage for their research journey.

Their project involves delving deep into the lives of Europeans residing in China, aiming to capture the essence of their daily experiences—from the practicalities of living costs and access to healthcare to their passions and entrepreneurial ventures. This qualitative approach promises a nuanced understanding of the cultural fabric and societal dynamics of these communities in China. Despite their busy schedule traveling across cities like Suzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, and Hangzhou to conduct interviews in person, the researchers are bridging vast distances to unearth diverse perspectives. In addition to XJTLU staff they are also meeting researchers from Europe currently residing in China (e.g. Youguang Zhou from Graduate School for East and Southeast European Studies, LMU, Germany and Metka Lokar from School of European Languages and Cultures, Beijing Foreign Studies University, China).

Nestled within Suzhou Industrial Park, they are witnessing first-hand the rapid technological ascent of this bustling city, renowned for attracting substantial foreign investment owing to its strategic proximity to Shanghai. Suzhou emerges as a vibrant economic hub, pulsating with industrial, commercial, and logistical activities while also flourishing as a vital centre for finance, culture, arts, education, and transportation within Jiangsu province.

Shanghai, a global metropolis and financial hub, dazzles with its iconic skyline and bustling waterfront promenades. Renowned for its fusion of modernity and heritage, Shanghai is a vibrant city where East meets West, offering a dynamic blend of business, culture, and lifestyle.

Beijing, the capital of People's Republic of China, is steeped in history and serves as a cultural and political centre. With its ancient landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City juxtaposed against modern developments, Beijing embodies a captivating blend of tradition and innovation. They spent five days there conducting many interesting interviews and had a quick meeting with two colleagues, Maja Veselič and Nataša Vampelj Suhadolnik from the Department of Asian Studies (Faculty of Arts, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia).

In the following days they are preparing to conduct more interviews, discuss their respective work with colleagues from XJTLU and carry out a workshop on European programmes for scientific cooperation and support measures including Horizon Europe MSCA Staff Exchange Programme which funded these secondments.

Seconded researchers from ZRC SAZU:

Dr. Martina Bofulin

Dr. Nataša Gregorič Bon

Dr. Miha Kozorog

Dr. Marijanca Ajša Vižintin

Dr. Maja Gostič