Zhang Zongye, a 64-year-old research fellow at the High Energy Physics Institute says that age is not an issue at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), China's highest institution of learning.

Zhang is one of two female CAS academicians elected this year. "I want to continue my work in physics which I love. Since an academic can apply for research funds and take in postgraduate students anytime before the age of 80, I will be able to continue my work after the retirement age of 65."

Zhang was elected because of her outstanding achievements in nuclear theoretical physics.

Born in Beijing in 1935, Zhang fell in love with physics some 50 years ago when she was a high school student. Her brother, Zhang Zongsui -- two years her senior -- was an expert in theoretical physics. Influenced by her brother, Zongye decided to spend her life in the study of theoretical physics.

She graduated from the Department of Physics at Peking University in 1956 and became a student of the famous scientist YuMin at the CAS High Energy Physics Institute.

"I have been very lucky both in terms of family and career". Zhang married her college sweetheart Yu Youwen. They now work in the same research department.

"He has given me a lot of support and shares the household chores." (xinhua)

.