Between July 14-20, 2024, a delegation of 30 undergraduate students from Chemical and Biological Engineering College（CBE）,Zhejiang University, led by Associate Professor Yang Bin and Counselor Ma Haoming, embarked on a week-long academic exchange at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). The visit aimed to broaden students’ horizon and explore collaborative opportunities in the fields of chemical engineering and biological engineering.
Day 1: Welcoming and Academic Orientation
The visit commenced with a warm welcome and an orientation session led by Professors Liu Yuanshuai and Lin Xining, who acquainted the students with the academic landscape of HKUST's Chemical and Biological Engineering Department. Professors Xing Yiming and Luo Zhengtang highlighted the department's graduate programs, emphasizing the promising future of chemical and bioengineering disciplines and encouraging student engagement with HKUST's research initiatives.
Day 2: Exploring Research Facilities and Innovations
On the afternoon of July 15, the students were given a tour of HKUST's state-of-the-art research platforms, including the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory and the Biological Science Experimental Center. The delegation gained insights into cutting-edge research equipment and methodologies. The day's activities concluded with a unique treat—sampling "liquid nitrogen ice cream" and observing student projects that leveraged 3D printing and other advanced manufacturing techniques.
Days 3-4: Symposium on Cutting-Edge Technologies
The following two days featured a symposium on "Frontier Technologies in Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering," where students engaged in discussions with faculty and researchers on the latest advancements in environmental catalyst materials, semiconductors, biomaterials, and synthetic biology. A particular focus was placed on emerging technologies such as AAV gene therapy, intelligent drugs, and mRNA. The application of AI in the chemical industry was also highlighted, with discussions on its role in predicting chemical reactions and enhancing cancer surgery through advanced tissue imaging.
Day 5: Entrepreneurship and Market Insights
On July 18, Langston Suen, CEO of Hongsheng Medical Technology Company, shared his entrepreneurial journey, detailing the company's successful commercialization of drug delivery technology based on ultrasound platforms. In the afternoon, Zeng Qianlin from Aobo Cosmetics Group and her colleague Norman Ho provided insights into the cosmetics industry, discussing product development, R&D processes, and innovative design strategies.
Day 6: Industry Exposure and Career Guidance
The delegation visited Yakult Hong Kong Co., Ltd., where they learned about the company's history, current status, and product development. Students observed the production process firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of industrial manufacturing. In the afternoon, Mark Lo from Sunpharmaceuticals Limited discussed the pharmaceutical industry in Hong Kong, offering career guidance and sharing insights into the industry's regulatory framework and job prospects.
The week was marked by rich academic interactions and a comprehensive exploration of HKUST's research and innovation in various disciplines. The students experienced the vibrant research culture at HKUST and immersed themselves in Hong Kong's local heritage. This exchange significantly expanded the students' professional horizons and international perspectives. CBE looks forward to further strengthening its collaboration with Hong Kong's academic institutions to nurture innovative talents with a global vision.
