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As the first university in Hong Kong to seamlessly integrate Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) into its education and research, our graduates exemplify the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology's (HKUST) commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with a humanistic mindset, enabling them to make a positive impact in an ever-evolving future.
Distinguished scholars shaping the future of learning and discovery
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As the first research-focused university in the city, HKUST is home to world-class faculty and researchers dedicated to groundbreaking research that drives positive impact, while also providing quality education to nurture the next generation.
The year 2024 marks another exciting chapter for HKUST's research achievements. Globally, we have distinguished scholars stood out as the representatives from Hong Kong higher education sector to receive different prestigious honors. These include Prof. Kei-May LAU, a pioneer in photonics research, who was elected to the US National Academy of Engineering (NAE); Prof. ZHANG Limin, one of the key drivers behind HKUST’s satellite launch, who received the inaugural National Engineer Award; and Prof. DAI Xi, an expert in quantum materials, who was awarded the State Natural Science Award (First Class) by President XI Jinping. Our global influence was solidified with 168 scholars recognized in Stanford University’s 2024 World’s Top 2% Scientist List for their career-long impact.
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In Hong Kong, HKUST secured record-high funding from various government schemes. Three projects leveraging advanced technologies such as AI, robotics, and data science received over HK$212.5 million from the Research Grants Council (RGC), the highest among local universities. Moreover, six distinguished faculty members were awarded over HK$37 million in fellowship grants, ranking the top of the city in terms of both the number and scale of grants awarded.
As the first research-focused university in the city, HKUST is home to many world-class faculty dedicated to groundbreaking research that drives positive impact.
None of these achievements would have been possible without exceptional talents. Following recruitment efforts including the '30 for 30' Talent Acquisition Campaign, HKUST has successfully attracted nearly 100 new scholars across various strategic areas over the past two years. These individuals are not only top-tier experts from world-leading universities and research institutions, but also industry leaders and founders of successful companies, including Prof. XIE Yuan from the Alibaba Group; Prof. BU Guojun from the Mayo Clinic; and Prof. JIA Jiaya, founder of SmartMore, a rapidly growing unicorn.
To further strengthen our leadership in AI research, the University has also welcomed 15 top AI scholars from around the world. Recognized as a leader in this field, HKUST’s "Data Science and Artificial Intelligence" was ranked first in Hong Kong and 10th in the world in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. Over the years, the University has pioneered a range of groundbreaking AI innovations, including an AI model for early Alzheimer’s risk forecasting led by our President, Prof. Nancy Ip, as well as a wide range of large AI models capable of assisting medical practitioners in diagnosing various types of cancers and diseases.
Building on this solid foundation, HKUST scientists have also participated in large-scale national research projects in recent years, co-leading the successful Shenhai Yihao and Jiaolong research expedition. There will be another InnoHK R&D center to be led by HKUST for space robotics and energy research, supporting the National Chang’E-8 mission with our expertise in mechanics, thermodynamics, robotics and more.
HKUST hosted a welcoming ceremony in September this year for the inaugural visit of Chinese research vessel Shenhai Yihao (Deep Sea No. 1) and the manned submersible Jiaolong to Hong Kong.
Looking ahead, by continually attracting top talent and empowering our faculty to drive impactful research, HKUST is committed to shaping a brighter future for society and the world.
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International Nexus for Thought Leadership
By bringing together great minds from around the world, institutions foster a vibrant exchange of ideas that sparks creativity and inspires new solutions to address complex challenges. This collaborative environment enhances knowledge sharing, exploring new perspectives and inspiring innovation, empowering individuals to think critically and push boundaries.
As a leading university reputed for cutting-edge research and education, HKUST brings in eminent intellectuals to engage in critical global dialogues on issues like AI and emerging technologies. Events such as the "International AI Cooperation and Governance Forum 2023" and "Molecular Frontiers Symposium" this year featured renowned scholars such as Nobel laureates and Turing Prize winners, as well as senior leaders from Microsoft, LinkedIn, Meta, to discuss, explore and address pressing global opportunities and challenges.
HKUST and Tsinghua University jointly organized an international AI forum last year, gathering world’s top experts to construct global framework for AI governance.
HKUST not only hosts global leaders but also contributes significantly to the international community through participation in world-class events and alliances. In January, Prof. Nancy Ip was the only University President from Hong Kong invited to share her insights in Winter Davos – the significant annual meeting World Economic Forum (WEF) attended by esteemed world leaders; later that year, HKUST became the first university in Greater China to host WEF’s Young Global Leaders leadership development program. We also collaborate with other universities to address collective challenges through our leading roles in the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA), the Association of East Asian Research Universities (AEARU) and the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU).
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The University leads many cross-disciplinary and cross-institution collaborations to facilitate applications of emerging technologies such as AI. One example is the Hong Kong Generative AI Research and Development Center (HKGAI), led by HKUST under the InnoHK initiative, where HKUST partners with five top-tier universities to develop a local version of ChatGPT through its own generative AI technology, as well as independently built large language model and database.
HKUST introduces Hong Kong’s largest liquid immersion cooling technology for sustainable AI & Scientific Research.
Over the years, the University has conferred 119 honorary doctorates and 73 Honorary fellows. These distinguished individuals serve as role models to inspire our members to pursue their own talents and aspirations while tackling global issues. This year, we are honored to confer honorary doctorate degrees to four distinguished academics and experts for their significant contributions in their fields or to society. These esteemed recipients include Dr. Jensen HUANG, founder and CEO of NVIDIA, renowned actor Mr. Tony LEUNG Chiu-Wai, Nobel laureate Prof. Michael LEVITT and Fields Medalist Prof. David MUMFORD, whose commitment to innovation resonates with HKUST’s pursuit of academic and research excellence.
