Samy Kaci, from Algeria, is a Chinese Government Scholarship recipient and a doctoral student at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, where he studies ultra-high-energy galactic gamma rays. For him, studying in China is not just a conviction, but also a path he has chosen for himself.

Samy's academic foundation was built in North Africa. During his undergraduate and master's studies, he focused on fundamental physics and condensed matter physics, earning recognition as an outstanding graduate representative of Houari Boumediene University of Science and Technology.

While studying in North Africa, he learned about China's LHAASO project, the Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory in Daocheng, Sichuan province, which is one of the world's most sensitive gamma-ray detection facilities. This major international scientific project, led by Chinese scientists, presented an unprecedented research opportunity to him.

In 2022, Samy came to the Tsung-Dao Lee Institute at SJTU, embarking on a new journey in his doctoral studies in astrophysics. With a cutting‑edge perspective and relentless effort, he explores the mysteries of the universe, striving to make breakthroughs in astrophysics.

Samy's research focuses on particle astrophysics — using relevant principles to explain how extreme celestial objects such as black holes and supernova remnants generate extremely high‑energy particles in the Milky Way. This work relies heavily on powerful computational capabilities for data analysis and numerical simulations.

Soon after arriving in China, Samy was impressed by the university's modern research environment, where world-class observational facilities and computing power provide strong support for researchers.

He drew inspiration from the university's academic ecosystem, which features weekly group meetings, regular international seminars, and collaborations with leading overseas laboratories.

Samy mentioned that studying at SJTU has given him a broader platform for exchanges with academic peers worldwide, more opportunities to present his research, and exposure to the latest research trends and techniques at international conferences — experiences that have significantly enhanced his research capabilities.

He particularly highlighted the weekly "Journal Club", a signature academic activity at the institute, where professors and students gather in small groups to discuss various research topics. Samy appreciates the event for its informal format, which encourages relaxed and equal exchanges, akin to conversations among friends.

Sammy shared that these exchanges have not only broadened his horizons but also taught him to approach problems from multiple perspectives. The diverse, open, and innovative research environment has helped him grow into an independent researcher with an international perspective.

In such an environment, Samy's academic efforts have yielded results. He co-authored a paper with his supervisor, Gwenael Giacinti, which was published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, a leading journal in astronomy.

Samy has also participated in the institute's Tropical Deep‑sea Neutrino Telescope project (TRIDENT). He said he feels fortunate to be part of the effort and looks forward to the project's progress.

Beyond his academic research, Samy immersed himself in learning Chinese and exploring Chinese culture, believing that mastering the language is essential to truly understanding the culture.

He joined a community organized by the university's International Student Service Center, where he made Chinese friends and helped them practice English while improving his Chinese through various cross‑cultural events.

His experience of China extends far beyond campus and the laboratory. Over the past three years, Samy has explored the unique charms of different regions, gaining insights into the diversity and inclusiveness of contemporary China from multiple perspectives. Each journey has deepened his understanding of a country where historical heritage and cutting-edge technological development coexist in harmony.

Samy is one of the five international students to receive the 2025 SJTU "International Student Star" award. Now, in the latter half of his doctoral studies, Samy is more determined than ever to pursue his long-term goals. In addition to completing his dissertation, he said he hopes to become a professor, cultivate more young scholars, and make greater contributions to the exploration of the universe.

He said that the universe has no boundaries, and science knows no borders. The young scientist has found his stage in China, and his story with China continues to unfold.

Sources: Official WeChat account of the China Scholarship Council (ID: "gh_afaa09c3e5f3"), official WeChat account of GLOBAL SJTU (ID: "GLOBAL_SJTU"), Official WeChat account of Shanghai Jiao Tong University (ID："love_SJTU')