Dunrui Cui, visiting researcher at InnoRenew CoE, UP IAM; Main area of research: Wood thermal modification, mechanism of wood decay

• Where were you living in childhood and where do you live now?

I grew up in Lanzhou, China, which is located in the geographical center of the Chinese mainland. Now I live in a seaside apartment in Izola.

• What have you studied and what were the motives for your decision?

I’ve been at Beijing Forestry University since my bachelor’s, focusing on wood science, and now I am working toward my PhD. My initial motivation stemmed from an interest in furniture design. But the further I explored, my focus shifted toward the intrinsic properties of wood.

• How would you describe your work to someone outside your field?

When wood is exposed to environments favorable for fungal growth, it inevitably begins to decay. Thermal modification changes the wood’s internal chemistry, effectively limiting the access fungi have to nutritional resources and significantly enhancing the wood’s decay resistance. My research specifically focuses on uncovering the mechanisms behind this resistance when the wood is challenged by dual fungal strains, rather than just a single one.

• What does your typical working day look like?

I usually kick off my day by reviewing my to-do list and prioritizing the most critical tasks. So, the daily focus varies, shifting between reading literature, analyzing data, writing papers, and conducting lab work.

• What makes you excited about your work?

What excites me most is the constant encounter with the unknown and the challenge of putting new ideas into practice. The research journey is often a mix of frustration and joy, but that is exactly what makes it so rewarding.

• And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

The biggest challenge is the self-imposed pressure I unconsciously place on myself. Sometimes that pressure can make it hard to juggle everything efficiently. So when plans go off track, it’s discouraging. I’m learning to manage that balance better.

• Which scientist or scientific achievement are you fascinated by and why?

I think it is microscope. I still vividly remember the first time I used a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to observe wood structures and fungal hyphae. It revealed a hidden world of precise, complex beauty. I instantly felt the charm of scientific exploration.

• Tell us about the work of art (books, music, movies, theatre, dance, visual arts) that has a special place in your life.

I really love the movie Zootopia. I’ve always seen Judy as a role model, aspiring to her bravery and confidence. Beyond that, I’m also interested in music, particularly the unique sound of the piano and the guzheng (Chinese zither), which bring me a sense of calm and joy.

• What have you read, listened to, or watched lately?

I’ve been listening to a podcast called ‘Flower on the Rock’, which hosts sincere conversations with inspiring women from all walks of life. I like a recent episode with the comedian Niaoniao, talking about how she came to see her own inherent worth.

• Which place on the Slovene coast do you like the most?

The first place must go to Izola, because I have the deepest bond with it. I enjoy sitting on the seaside bench to enjoy the sunset, which is very pleasant and relaxing, often filling me with happiness and gratitude. Of course, the coasts of Koper and Piran are also very beautiful.

• What makes you enthusiastic?

I really love drinking milk tea. Every time I come across a new product with an excellent ratio of tea and milk flavors, it always makes me feel happy!

• Characterize your life’s guidance or an important realization (or epiphany) you have experienced.

Live in the moment and let it be.

• What does the charm of wood mean to you?

At InnoRenew CoE, I’ve seen how the natural essence of wood creates such a calming space. I’m so grateful for the warmth and enrichment wood brings to our world.