Constructing connections

Italian engineer Bruno Briseghella and his students do experiments in a lab at Fuzhou University.

New measures

Growing up in Venice, Briseghella became interested in designing bridges as a child, especially under the influence of his father who did the same thing for a living.

Briseghella taught in Italy, including a stint at the University of Padova, before coming to China. He has designed bridges and other structures in other countries as well.

By 2012, he had designed 25 bridges in Italy, including a 414-meter-long bridge in Isola della Scala, which is one of the world's longest jointless bridges.

His achievements in the field of construction have won him a series of awards.

As a member of many international academic bodies, such as the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering, he has organized or participated in many conferences.

Briseghella's experience and global vision is valued by Fuzhou University. Aiming to enhance its teaching and research capacity as well as boost international exchanges, the university appointed him as dean of the college in July, setting a rare example.

"I really want to do my best and I want to do something for China. Enjoying a good life wasn't my purpose of coming here," he says, adding that he is aware of the high expectations that come with such a job.

He faces some practical challenges, including the language barrier, but he adapts quickly and is open to suggestions from colleagues.

"I'm the dean. But I am also a student and have lots to learn," Briseghella says.

"Sometimes problems may occur. But we solve them like those within a family."

Briseghella's predecessor, Chen, says cultural differences is an area where Briseghella's understanding will grow with time.

"He's adapting very well," Chen says. "He and the college have a solid mutual understanding."