For the first time, a prize honouring the best article on global Hong Kong studies has been added to the International Convention of Asia Scholars (ICAS) series. It was presented today at a ceremony at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The winner was chosen by a panel of judges consisting of scholars, researchers and experts from around the world.
This year, five scientists were honored for their outstanding contributions to astronomy, life science and medicine, and mathematical sciences. The astronomy prize was shared by Dr Shrinivas R Kulkarni of the California Institute of Technology for his discovery of millisecond pulsars, gamma-ray bursts and other variable and transient astronomical objects; Prof Swee Lay Thein of Harvard Medical School and the National Institutes of Health in the US for her groundbreaking research on hematology; and Prof Peter Sarnak of Princeton University for his development of arithmetic theory of thin groups and the affine sieve, connecting number theory, analysis, combinatorics and geometry.
Among the other prizes, the HKSAR Government Scholarship for Postgraduate Research Fellowship was presented to Dr Joshua Tsui of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, who is doing pioneering work in the areas of quantum computing and computational genomics. The Scholarship will support his research on understanding the genetic basis of disease, particularly relating to cancer. The Hong Kong Applied Research Institute Prize for Young Scientists, which is managed by the Hong Kong Applied Research Council, was awarded to Dr Ivan Chan of the University of Hong Kong for his discovery of a new type of ionic crystal that can be used to produce high-performance transistors for the use in mobile communication and other electronic devices.
The HKSAR Government is determined to develop the city into an international innovation and technology hub, he said. The HKSAR Government aims to cultivate a culture that cherishes scientific spirit, encourages exploration and innovation, as well as being inclusive and understanding. The BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize reflects this vision and is an excellent platform to promote the achievements of Hong Kong science professionals, as well as sowing the seeds of insatiable curiosity and resolute perseverance in the youth of Hong Kong.
The BOCHK SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION PRIZE is an independent merit-based award. The review process aims to make objective judgments and evaluations by considering the scientific or technological innovations and their transformation, as well as the social or economic value created. The highest decision-making body of the prize is the Board, comprising a Review Committee and Compliance Oversight Team, which are responsible for reviewing and interpreting the Charter, suggesting important scientific research fields for THE PRIZE, appointing members of the Review Committee and Compliance Oversight Team, setting requirements of nominating experts and verifying and approving the final review results. The Board also reserves the right to take appropriate measures, if necessary. All personnel involved in the review process are bound by confidentiality obligations. For more information, please refer to the Charter.