HKUST

HKUST-led HKSREC Hosts Space Intelligence Event Uniting Beijing-Shanghai-Hong Kong Research Strengths to Launch Space Intelligence Innovation Hub When space exploration meets intelligent technology, visions of the future are steadily becoming a reality. ✨Led by The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and established under the InnoHK research clusters of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the Hong Kong Space Robotics and Energy Centre (HKSREC) today hosted the event themed "Leading Space Intelligence: Into the Future." Officiating guests included The Hon. Mrs. Regina IP LAU Suk-Yee, Convenor of the Non-official Members of the Executive Council of the HKSAR Government; Dr. Stephen WONG Yuen-Shan, Head of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit of the HKSAR Government; Prof. WU Ji, President of the Chinese Society of Space Research; Prof. Bernard FOING, Executive Director of the COSPAR International Lunar Exploration Working Group; Chairman of the Lunar Explorers Society; Prof. Charles NG Wang-Wai, HKUST Vice-President for Institutional Advancement and Prof. GAO Yang, Director of HKSREC and Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at HKUST. Prof. Charles Ng highlighted HKUST’s contributions, citing the launch of Hong Kong’s first higher education environmental remote sensing satellite in 2023, leadership of the Chang'E‑8 "Hong Kong Operation Robot" project, and the development of the world’s first lightweight, high-precision carbon dioxide and methane synergistic observatory payload. Prof. Gao Yang introduced the research work of the "Hong Kong Operation Robot" in China's Chang'E‑8 lunar mission. She said, "Our Centre is also committed to facilitating industry engagement through diverse exchange activities and driving the translation of cutting-edge technologies, injecting new momentum into the development of Hong Kong's aerospace industry." The Hon. Mrs. Regina Ip Lau Suk-Yee said, "Hong Kong is well positioned to function as a hub for servicing China's aerospace companies and develop new aerospace-related industries." Both Prof. Bernard Foing and Prof. Wu Ji recognized the work of HKSREC, noting that its achievements are injecting new momentum into the nation’s aerospace development and laying a solid foundation for long-term lunar exploration. The closing ceremony was officiated by Mr. Ivan LEE Kwok-Bun, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology of the HKSAR Government, and witnessed the official launch of the Beijing-Shanghai-Hong Kong Innovation Hub Initiative on Space Intelligence, marking the commencement of in-depth cross-regional research collaboration in the field of space intelligence. Discover more: hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-led… #HKUST #InnoHK #HKSREC #SpaceInnovation #SpaceTechnology #Aerospace

HKUST Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Medical Education and Research Complex Expected Completion in 2028 to Receive its First Cohort of Students Since receiving approval last year to establish Hong Kong’s third medical school, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has been steadily advancing its preparatory work. Today, HKUST held the groundbreaking ceremony for its Medical Education and Research Complex. The complex will serve as the principal teaching and research base for the School of Medicine (SMED) during its initial phase. This complex will provide advanced facilities and resources for medical education and research, helping SMED to nurture more high-caliber medical and technology professionals for both Hong Kong and the nation. The unveiling of the commemorative plaque for the complex was first officiated by The Hon. John KC LEE, Chief Executive of the HKSAR and HKUST Chancellor; Mr. ZHOU Ji, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR (LOCPG); Mr. LI Yongsheng, Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the HKSAR (OCMFA); Prof. LO Chung-Mau, Secretary for Health of the HKSAR Government; Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government; Prof. Harry SHUM, HKUST Council Chairman; and Prof. Nancy IP, HKUST President. They were subsequently joined by Dr. John CHAN Cho-Chak, HKUST Pro-Chancellor, and Dr. the Hon. Andrew LIAO Cheung-Sing, HKUST Court Chairman, to officiate the groundbreaking ceremony. The Hon. John KC Lee remarked, "The National 15th Five-Year Plan supports Hong Kong in becoming an international hub for high-caliber talent. A new medical school will help turn that vision into reality, while ensuring better quality, greater efficiency, and higher capacity in local healthcare and medical services." Prof. Harry Shum remarked, "While it is a concrete first step, it also points the way forward – to a bigger vision in the University Town in the Northern Metropolis, where a permanent medical campus and a teaching hospital will rise in the years ahead." President Ip said, "Today, as we break ground on this Medical Education and Research Complex, we honor that legacy by embracing the same determined, can-do spirit. The establishment of our School of Medicine signifies another ambitious chapter in the University’s history." The building is expected to be completed by mid-2028. In the future, upon completion of the Ngau Tam Mei Development Area, SMED will relocate to its permanent campus there, to support the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Discover more: hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-hol… #HKUST #HKUST35 #SchoolOfMedicine #MedicalEducation #MedicalResearch #Groundbreaking #CampusDevelopment #GreaterBayArea #Innovation

HKUST and THE Co-Host Asia Universities Summit 2026 Global leaders converged to shape the future of higher education in Asia as HKUST and Times Higher Education (THE) co-hosted the Asia Universities Summit 2026 under the theme “Igniting Global Transformation: Asia’s Leadership,” exploring Asia’s pivotal role in driving global innovation and addressing pressing societal challenges through higher education. The Summit holds particular significance as it coincides with HKUST’s 35th anniversary and marks a decade of partnership between the University and THE since the inaugural summit. This year’s event attracted over 600 university presidents, policymakers and industry leaders from 25 countries and regions, underscoring a collective commitment to advancing the academic landscape across Asia. HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP said, “Asia is increasingly shaping the direction of global innovation, talent development, and societal transformation. In this era of rapid technological advancement and constant change—from artificial intelligence to climate resilience—the challenge of progress lies in anticipating needs and shaping solutions, which calls for a fundamental rethinking of how universities lead..” Across a series of high‑level sessions, HKUST senior leadership played an active role in shaping discussions on inclusive leadership, trusted AI in higher education, research commercialization, climate resilience, and global research collaboration. The sessions examined how universities can strengthen governance frameworks to ensure the responsible and ethical use of AI, while cultivating innovation ecosystems that translate research outcomes into socio-economic impact. The three-day event concluded with a closing ceremony, cementing new strategic partnerships and a shared vision for the future of higher education in the region. Learn more: hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-and… #HKUST #HKUST35 #ShawAuditorium #AsiaUniversitiesSummit2026 #TimesHigherEducation #THEAsia

Honoring Excellence at #THEAwardsAsia2026 🏆 The Gala Dinner of the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia Universities Summit 2026, co-hosted by HKUST, brought together university leaders and distinguished guests from across Asia and beyond for an evening of celebration, connection, and reflection. A highlight of the dinner was THE Awards Asia 2026, which recognized outstanding achievements across the higher education community. In her welcome speech, HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP shared that, coinciding with HKUST’s 35th anniversary and a decade of the Summit, the evening also reflected the University’s deep-rooted commitment to academic excellence, innovation, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and knowledge transfer that creates tangible impact. President Ip highlighted that this commitment has translated into real-world outcomes, including more than 2,100 active start-ups and 11 unicorns nurtured by the HKUST community. We were honored to welcome Tim LUI, the Chairman of the University Grants Committee (UGC), as Guest of Honor. Joining President Ip and other distinguished leaders, Mr. Lui also presented the THE Awards Asia 2026. In his remarks, Mr. Lui underscored Asia’s rising role in global innovation and reaffirmed Hong Kong’s position as an international hub for post-secondary education, supported by strong global partnerships, world-class research, and continued investment in teaching and innovation. Mr. Lui also recognized HKUST’s remarkable journey over the past 35 years, as the Summit returned to where it first began a decade ago, noting how the University has grown from a young institution into a globally respected university. Closing the evening, President Ip reflected that the Gala Dinner was not only a celebration of excellence, but also a tribute to friendship, appreciation, and the relationships that will continue well beyond the Summit through future collaborations and enduring partnerships. Congratulations to all THE Awards Asia 2026 recipients on this well-deserved recognition. #HKUST #HKUST35 #AsiaUniversitiesSummit2026 #THEAsia #THEAwardsAsia #HigherEducation #UGC

HKUST Recognized as a Top Asian University in THE Rankings 2026 HKUST has secured 12th place in Asia in the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings 2026, highlighting its strong standing within Asia’s dynamic higher education sector. As a university rooted in Asia with a global outlook, HKUST remains focused on advancing knowledge, talent development, and impact-driven research in support of its strategic priorities and long-term development. #HKUST #HKUST35 #THEAsia #TimesHigherEducation #AsiaUniversityRankings #HigherEducation #GlobalImpact #WhereMiraclesHappen

A Landmark Higher Education Summit Opens at HKUST | #AsiaUniversitiesSummit2026 🌏 The Times Higher Education (THE) Asia Universities Summit 2026, co-hosted by HKUST, officially kicked off! We're honored to welcome over 600 university leaders, policymakers, and industry partners from across Asia and beyond. The opening ceremony was graced by HKUST President Prof. Nancy Y. IP and Dr. Jeff SZE, Acting Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government, alongside THE representatives Phil BATY, Chief Global Affairs Officer, and Mei Mei LIM, President, APAC. In her opening remarks, President Ip emphasized that universities must do more than simply react to rapid technological change. They need to take a proactive role in shaping the future, with stronger ties to industry and society. She also highlighted Hong Kong's unique position as a global hub for collaboration and talent development—a vision reinforced by the Chief Executive's Policy Address for two consecutive years. The Address sets the goal to transform Hong Kong into an international education hub, with the Northern Metropolis as its anchor. Echoing this vision, Dr. Sze underscored that universities must take on the responsibility of translating research into practical solutions to address global challenges. He also highlighted Hong Kong’s long-standing role as the world’s super-connector and super-value adder, bridging East and West, as well as its strength in linking global academic networks with opportunities in the Chinese Mainland and the wider region. In this context, education, technology, and talent together form the foundation of a vibrant innovation ecosystem, with HKUST standing out as a strong example of excellence and impact. President Ip affirmed that HKUST turns this vision into action. The University engages with leading global universities and enterprises through overseas visits and extends invitations to Hong Kong to foster collaborations for the Northern Metropolis University Town. According to President Ip, this Summit stands as a clear testament to that commitment. Over the next two days, diverse voices will come together to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and shape what's next. Stay tuned! #HKUST #HKUST35 #AsiaUniversitiesSummit2026 #THEAsia #HigherEducation #GlobalImpact #Innovation #WhereMiraclesHappen

HKUST Hosts Hult Prize Hong Kong Summit Bringing Together Young Innovators, Empowering Ideas into Action, HKUST recently hosted the Hult Prize Hong Kong Summit, part of one of the world’s largest student entrepreneurship competitions, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of student entrepreneurship.” Organized by the HKUST Entrepreneurship Center, the Hult Prize Hong Kong Summit brought together 16 student startup teams from local tertiary institutions. Among the participants, the HKUST team Smart Cool Tech, which developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven chiller optimization for commercial buildings, was awarded third place. In addition, two other HKUST teams seized Merit Award for their projects—an AI‑powered football shin guard and performance monitoring system, and a mobile application supporting menopause health management. Prof. Carrie LING, Director of the HKUST Entrepreneurship Center, said, "As one of the earliest universities in Hong Kong to promote innovation and entrepreneurship education, HKUST has long supported students, faculty, and alumni by providing sustained, practical entrepreneurial support and fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem. It is therefore an honour for HKUST to serve as the inaugural host of the Hult Prize Hong Kong Summit.“ Discover more: hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-hos… #HKUST #HKUST35 #HultPrize #HultPrize2026 #StudentEntrepreneurs #StartupLife #InnovationInAction #Entrepreneurship

HKUST Develops Novel AI Pathology System for Accurate Multi-Cancer Diagnosis Bringing new hope for more accessible cancer diagnosis, HKUST has developed a pioneering AI pathology analysis system that can accurately recognize multiple types of cancer using only a minimal number of samples—without requiring any additional training. This breakthrough significantly enhances the flexibility and efficiency of AI-assisted medical care, opening up new possibilities for the widespread adoption of intelligent pathology. Named PRET (Pan-cancer Recognition without Example Training), the system was successfully developed by a research team led by Prof. LI Xiaomeng, Assistant Professor of the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, and Associate Director of the Center for Medical Imaging and Analysis at HKUST, in collaboration with Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School. It is the first to introduce the concept of “in-context learning” from natural language processing into pathological image analysis, fundamentally overcoming the need for task-specific fine-tuning in traditional AI models. Prof. Li Xiaomeng said, "The core value of the PRET system lies in breaking the traditional barriers of 'massive data and repetitive training,' enabling advanced and precise AI-powered diagnostic services to transcend geographical and resource constraints, thereby promoting global healthcare equity." Discover more: hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-dev… #HKUST #HKUS35 #AIBreakthrough #CancerDiagnosis #AIinHealthcare #MedicalInnovation #Pathology #HealthTech

✨ Asia’s Most Beautiful Campus? That’s us. HKUST Some places stay with you, not just for what you learn, but for how they make you feel. From early morning walks with the sea just beside you to sunsets that quietly wrap up a long day, life at HKUST is filled with moments that go beyond the classroom. That’s why we’re especially proud to be named Asia’s Most Beautiful Campus and ranked 17th worldwide in the latest “World’s Most Beautiful University Campuses” by the 130-year-old interior design authority "House Beautiful". 💙 Among hundreds of historic institutions, our young campus stood out for the way nature and architecture come together in harmony. At just 35 years old and spanning 150 acres, our campus overlooks the breathtaking southern coast of Sai Kung, where each corner reveals a different view and each day brings a new perspective. From sweeping coastal views to scenic corners across campus, every moment here feels like a postcard. 🌊 Which spot at HKUST is your absolute favorite? Drop a comment and share your secret photo spots with us! 📸 #HKUST #HKUST35 #BeautifulCampus #AsiasMostBeautifulCampus #CampusLife #StudyInHK #WhereMiraclesHappen

An Inspiring Dialogue with Three Leading Scientific Minds at HKUST What would happen when Nobel Laureates and the next generation come together? As a key event of the 3rd Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference and the Xiangjiang Nobel Forum 2026, the “Together with the Scientists” programme welcomed three Nobel Laureates to HKUST, where they engaged in high-level academic dialogue and in-depth discussions with faculty and students. Jointly organized by HKUST and the Hong Kong Alumni Association of Beijing Universities, the event commenced with welcome remarks by Ir Prof. John KWONG, Vice-President for Development at HKUST. In the dialogue session, the three scientists shared insights from their respective fields, bridging theory and real-world scientific exploration: 💡 Prof. Michael LEVITT reflected on research methodology, AI development, and talent cultivation, inspired by questions from AI Claude. 🔬 Prof. Andre GEIM highlighted the importance of blue-sky research and how curiosity-driven science can lead to breakthrough innovation. 🌌 Prof. Brian SCHMIDT spoke on “The Virtuous Cycle of Science” discussing the history of astronomy and the importance of exploring the universe. Building on the lively atmosphere, Prof. Andre Geim and Prof. Brian Schmidt engaged audiences on-site and online during the Q&A, responding to questions in an open and dynamic discussion. Looking ahead, such dialogues continue to expand the boundaries of science and inspire new ideas, collaborations, and possibilities. ✨ #HKUST #NobelLaureates #ScienceDialogue #TogetherWithTheScientists #AI #Cosmology #Innovation #ScienceCommunication #FutureOfScience #CuriosityDrivenResearch

Shaping the Future of Higher Education at #AsiaUniversitiesSummit2026 HKUST will take centre stage from 22 to 24 April as we co-host the Times Higher Education (THE) Asia Universities Summit 2026, returning to where it began after a decade. Under the theme "Igniting global transformation: Asia's leadership", and as key highlight of our 35th anniversary celebrations, the Summit will bring together university presidents, policymakers, and global leaders to explore Asia's leadership in global innovation and future pathways to address key challenges. Set against rapid technological and global change, the Summit brings together key dialogues from AI and longevity science to climate resilience, and research translation and startup incubation. 💡Across three days of keynote speeches and high-level dialogues, these key sessions bring together leading voices from around the world to exchange ideas and shape the conversation: 22 April • 09:45-10:15 - Longevity science and sustainable human futures • 14:30-15:15 - AI's next frontier: What will shape the future of work and learning? 23 April • 10:15-11:00 - Smart cities, the low-attitude economy and the future of living • 11:30-12:15 - Trusted AI in higher education and research • 12:15-12:45 - Climate-proofing megacities: Engineering resilience • 14:30-15:45 - The unicorn factory: From lab to launchpad • 16:30-17:00 - Fireside chat: The role of female leaders in Asia 24 April • 10:15-11:00 - The university in 2030: Campus, curriculum and credentials reimagined • 12:30-13:15 - Panel: Borderless research in a nationalistic age: Utopian dream or achievable future? HKUST looks forward to contributing to these global discussions alongside partners from Asia and around the world, advancing key issues in higher education. 🔗Explore the full agenda: timeshighered-events.com/asia.../agenda #HKUST #HKUST35 #AsiaUniversitiesSummit2026 #THEAsia #HigherEducation #Innovation #AI #Research #GlobalImpact #WhereMiraclesHappen

HKUST Achieves Outstanding Results in the Third Round of the RAISe+ Scheme Riding a fresh wave of innovation, HKUST has once again delivered standout results under the Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One-Plus (RAISe+) Scheme launched by the Innovation and Technology Commission. In the third round of funding, seven HKUST research projects have been recommended—nearly one-third of the total. Together with the first two rounds, HKUST has secured a total of 19 funded projects—the highest among local universities, underscoring its leading role in translating research outcomes into real-world applications and in advancing industry-academia-research collaboration. The seven projects span key innovation and technology areas, including health and medical sciences, artificial intelligence (AI) computing, new materials and new energy, and space technology. Beyond strong technological innovation, they feature clear commercialization pathways and are designed to address real clinical and industry needs, highlighting the application value of HKUST’s research and its market potential. Prof. Tim CHENG Kwang-Ting, Vice‑President for Research and Development of HKUST congratulated the research teams on their success, stating, “HKUST has long provided comprehensive support to its researchers through a wide range of support mechanisms, robust resource provisioning, and interdisciplinary research platforms. These efforts have enabled steady progress in knowledge and technology transfer, entrepreneurship, and industry engagement." Discover more: hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-ach… #HKUST #HKUST35 #RAISePlus #InnovationAndTechnology #ResearchImpact #TechInnovation #AIInnovation #HealthTech

HKUST Secures Dual UNESCO Endorsements for Two International Deep-Sea Research Programs Marking a significant milestone, HKUST has received official endorsements from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for two international deep-sea research initiatives, recognised under the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) (the Ocean Decade) and the United Nations International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development (2024–2033) (the Science Decade), respectively. The two research initiatives are the Global Climate Impacts of Methane Seeps Program (CliMetS) and the Mysteries of Ocean Cold Seep Interfaces Program (MOCSI). CliMetS is designed to address critical gaps in climate science by investigating the role of seabed methane seeps in global warming, while MOCSI will advance global understanding of cold seep biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and biogeochemical dynamics. By narrowing resource and knowledge disparities across regions and empowering emerging economies, particularly those in the Global South to take on a more active role, the long-term synergistic development of the two programs will be supported, fostering closer integration between climate-focused research on seafloor methane seeps and explorations of deep-sea biodiversity. Together, CliMetS and MOCSI share a common vision of building an open, inclusive, and globally connected research ecosystem to advance deep-sea research and address future climate challenges. Discover more: hkust.edu.hk/news/hkust-sec… #HKUST #UNESCO #DeepSeaResearch #OceanScience #ClimateChange #MethaneSeep

🌟HKUST Fun Day 2026 Comes to a Joyful Close! This year’s HKUST Fun Day brought boundless energy to the 35th anniversary celebrations, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere across campus. A wide array of interactive game booths filled the Atrium, where participants took on different challenges and showcased their skills. Thrilling, fun, and highly engaging, the activities kept everyone immersed throughout the day. The “Fun Facts Wall” also drew plenty of attention, unveiling 35 lesser-known facts about HKUST. Even the most familiar aspects of campus life came with hidden stories, sparking moments of surprise and discovery. 👀 Snacks and drinks kept the energy high, while specially designed HKUST souvenirs let everyone take home a piece of the day. 🍿🥤The highlight came when our beloved mascot, Red Birdie, made a surprise appearance, lifting the atmosphere and bringing smiles all around. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined and contributed to the vibrant spirit of the event. This shared energy continues to power HKUST’s journey forward. #HKUST #HKUST35 #HKUSTFunDay #CampusLife #UniversityLife #Events #FunDay #MomentsThatMatter

A Transformative Experience for HKUST Student Ambassadors 🌟 Our Student Ambassadors had the privilege of meeting with Tim SYPKO, President and Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland (HKDL), in an inspiring and truly memorable exchange. ✨ From leadership philosophies to talent development strategies, the session offered valuable insights into how creativity and innovation come together to shape forward-thinking, world-class experiences and position HKDL as a leading regional tourism destination. Beyond the insights, it was a rare opportunity to gain real-world perspectives from an industry leader, sparking new ideas and opening up possibilities for the future. A heartfelt thank you to Tim for sharing his vision, experience, and expertise, and for inspiring our students to think bigger and aim higher. 🚀 #HKUST #StudentAmbassadors #Leadership #HKDL #FutureLeaders #Inspiration #ExperientialLearning