Based on the life course theory, this paper studies the growth trajectory and mechanism of strategic scientists in China, with applied optics specialist Wang Daheng as an example. It is shown that the growth of strategic scientists is a longterm process, subject to the influencing factors such as the social environment, the personal initiative, and the timing, and is the result of the combined action of these factors. Specifically, the social environment is the basic condition for the growth of strategic scientists; Individual agency plays an important role in this, and its interaction with the social environment, and the timings in life provide opportunities and development support for the growth of scientists. On this basis, some suggestions are made for cultivating strategic scientists.

strategic scientists  /  life course theory  /  Wang Daheng