CUHK
News Centre

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), in collaboration with the Council of the Hong Kong Laureate Forum, today (9 September) launched a two-day science seminar titled “Science in the Age of AI” on the CUHK campus. Serving as an official prelude to the Hong Kong Laureate Forum 2027, the event brings together internationally renowned scholars, industry pioneers and emerging researchers to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is driving research progress and breakthrough applications across various scientific disciplines. 

The opening ceremony was officiated by Professor Timothy Tong Wai-cheung, Chairman of the Council of the Hong Kong Laureate Forum; Mr Ivan Lee Kwok-bun, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology of the HKSAR Government; and Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK. 

Professor Lo remarked in his opening speech, “AI has become a powerful accelerator for the 21^st century. However, as we embrace this transformative power, we must reflect on what it means to be a scientist today. AI can analyse data and identify correlations, but it cannot experience wonder and replace human intuition, scientific curiosity or ethical judgment. The machine can generate answers, but it takes a right human mind to ask good questions. That is why universities such as CUHK is playing a very critical role. Our mission is not simply to teach students how to run algorithms, but to cultivate critical thinkers who know how to interrogate them. At CUHK, we are actively driving interdisciplinary collaboration, using AI as a bridge connecting computer science, medicine, environmental studies, and the humanities. My advice will be to leverage these tools without fear, while maintaining a healthy scientific scepticism.”

Exploring cross-disciplinary frontiers in AI

The two-day seminar features three main thematic tracks highlighting the intersection of AI and modern scientific research: 

• Life Science and Translational Therapeutics: Exploring algorithm-driven genomic sorting, computational biology and data-powered tools to accelerate new medical treatments and biotechnology innovations.
• Mathematics, GeoAI and Technology: Examining pure logic, big data and GeoAI analytics for smart urban planning and logistics.
• Computer Science, Generative AI, Data and Trust: Addressing foundational computing, generative AI technologies and ethical frameworks for responsible AI deployment.

Distinguished speakers sharing their insights include Professor Irwin King Kuo-chin, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) of CUHK, Professor Allen Chan Kwan-chee, Associate Vice-President (Knowledge Transfer) and Chairman of the Department of Chemical Pathology at CUHK, and Professor Kwan Mei-po, Head of Chung Chi College, Choh-Ming Li Professor of Geography and Resource Management, and Director of the Institute of Space and Earth Information Science (ISEIS) at CUHK, alongside leading experts from global academic institutions and technology enterprises.

Nurturing next-generation scientific leaders

A key feature of the seminar is its dedicated platform for young researchers, postdoctoral fellows, postgraduates and undergraduate students. Through flash presentations and poster exhibitions, the next-generation talent can pitch innovative ideas, receive guidance from renowned scientists and build interdisciplinary networks ahead of the upcoming Hong Kong Laureate Forum 2027.

About the Hong Kong Laureate Forum

The Hong Kong Laureate Forum is a world-class academic exchange platform designed to connect distinguished scientists – including recipients of the prestigious Shaw Prize – with emerging researchers and students from around the globe. The Forum receives strong support from the HKSAR Government, is sponsored by the Lee Shau Kee Foundation, and has the Shaw Prize Foundation serving as a major partner. It aims to foster cross-disciplinary dialogues, inspire the next generation of scientific leaders and promote education and diverse scientific exchanges.