Sharing discoveries: Li giving his presentation during the media’s lab visit to CUHK’s Department of Physics.
Unsolved mysteries spark curiosity, and for The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Prof of Physics Li Hua-bai, this curiosity is the foundation of scientific exploration.
Specialising in astrophysics and the formation of massive stars and nebulae, Prof Li said science is not just about memorising facts, but also about seeking answers to some of the universe’s biggest questions.
“Students might learn electronics, thermophysics or classical mechanics in textbooks, but applying that knowledge to real instruments shows them how science works in practice,” he said during his presentation at CUHK’s Department of Physics on Nov 8.
Noting that the world of academia is all about process, rather than outcome, he added that to maximise opportunities and scientific development, it takes long-term dedication and careful work.
Meanwhile, CUHK’s JC STEM Lab of Astronomical Instrumentation director and Prof of Physics Yan Renbin emphasised the multidisciplinary skills required for modern astronomical research.
“We need talents in mathematics, physics, engineering, fibre optics, electronics and optical design. At the same time, when we push for better, more advanced instrumentation, we also train the next generation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) students to be better,” he said.
The lab, established in 2023, is dedicated to researching the motion and distribution of gases in the Milky Way to understand humankind’s galactic home and how stars are born.
Separately, Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center (MRC) biomedical engineer Jason Lam highlighted the importance of young talent in advancing robotic-assisted surgery, a field poised for rapid growth.
The MRC collaborates closely with universities, including CUHK, to bring student projects into real-world research.
“To develop these technologies, you need to be willing to test bold ideas and experiment.
“The curiosity to ask questions and the technical skills from STEM, engineering, physics, and biomedical knowledge come together to make these innovations possible,” Lam said during his presentation at the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park on Nov 7.
The tour included a showcase of the MRC’s microscale swarming robotic system, designed to target blood clots in ischaemic stroke patients. Using millions of nanoparticles guided by a rapidly oscillating magnetic field in biofluids, the system restores blood flow with precision.
Established in 2020 by CUHK’s faculties of medicine and engineering in collaboration with ETH Zurich, Imperial College London, and Johns Hopkins University, the MRC bridges medicine and robotics, translating biomedical engineering research into clinical practice.
Lam also emphasised the value of creativity and bold ideas in STEM.
“Never be afraid to express your ideas, even if they seem impossible.
“The future might surprise you, just like artificial intelligence did,” he said.
Prof Li, Prof Yan and Lam gave their presentations during the media’s visit as part of their coverage of the Hong Kong Laureate Forum, held from Nov 5 to 8.
