By C. Perera, JadeTimes News
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology has received a donation from the Shanghai Medical and Innovation Development Foundation to support its "Mainland Innovative Medical Talent Cultivation Program ." This program, in collaboration with mainland Chinese hospitals, aims to address the increasing demand for healthcare solutions due to aging populations. It focuses on nurturing medical talent skilled in both scientific research and clinical practice.
HKUST previously partnered with Beijing Tiantan Hospital of Capital Medical University to cultivate medical professionals with expertise in research and clinical practice. The University is also engaging with other mainland hospitals to expand the Program, aiming to equip clinicians with advanced research skills and foster future medical leaders.
SMIDF's donation will specifically support the development of brain health clinicians. Thirty clinicians, including those from Beijing Tiantan Hospital, will receive research training at HKUST, with access to laboratory facilities and mentorship.
The donation ceremony took place at the 2024 Brain Health Conference in Beijing. Distinguished guests included Professor Chen Zhu of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Vice Minister of the National Health Commission Yu Xuejun, HKUST President Nancy Ip, and other prominent figures. Professor Ip delivered a keynote address and participated in a panel discussion.
Expressing gratitude, Professor Ip highlighted the importance of developing medical talent to address the challenges posed by an aging population and emphasized HKUST's commitment to fostering healthcare innovation. Dr. Wang Bo of SMIDF also expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, underscoring its significance in advancing brain health.
HKUST has a strong foundation in neuroscience, genetics, bioengineering, data science, AI, robotics, multi omics, and precision drug discovery. The University has made significant strides in brain health research, including developing novel diagnostic blood tests for Alzheimer's disease. In 2019, HKUST partnered with leading international universities to establish a brain research center in Hong Kong, focusing on precision diagnostics and healthcare.
HKUST is also planning to establish a world leading research based medical school to nurture clinicians and medical professionals with strong research and translational skills, aiming to integrate advancements in technology and medical practice.
About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is a globally recognized university excelling in innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. Ranked 3rd in the Times Higher Education's Young University Rankings 2024, HKUST is renowned for its interdisciplinary pedagogy and high employability of its graduates. The University has achieved significant research and entrepreneurial success, with numerous start ups, including Unicorns and successful exits, established by its members.
