Biology a model in scholar's life

To his Chinese colleagues, Waxman is a traditional English gentleman, who is nice and helpful to all around him, says Luo Zewei, a biology professor at Fudan and whose office is next to Waxman's.

"He is highly dedicated in his work. He makes a computer simulation each time he explains a theory, even if it's just a trivial one. Chinese researchers should learn from his spirit of dedication," Luo adds.

Waxman and his wife love living in Shanghai and for now, cannot imagine themselves in another city. For Harder, it is the safety of walking alone even at 11 pm, and the unique experience from the tiny lanes to the glossy shops.

Waxman says he loves the food and the weather.

The couple usually walk home together and on the way, they brainstorm new ideas and discuss issues using different approaches. But at times, they stay up late and spent the night in their respective offices.

"What's spare time? Never heard of that!" Waxman jokes, when asked if he had hobbies. "The harder I work, the luckier I will be. This is my philosophy."

hewei@chinadaily.com.cn