Nobel Laureate and Experts Back New Medical School at HKBU to Innovate Medical Research

HKBU's New Medical School Initiative

Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) is on the brink of a significant advancement in medical education and research. During a meeting on February 23, 2025, the Preparatory Committee and Expert Advisory Committee convened to discuss the proposal for a new medical school. The meeting was marked by a unanimous endorsement from its members, which includes leading figures in the medical field, such as 2020 Nobel Laureate Sir Michael Houghton and renowned drug development expert Dr. Robert J. Spiegel.

The proposed medical school aims to foster innovation by establishing a Frontier Translational Medical Research Institute. This institute is set to enhance medical advancements and translate research findings into practical applications, thus addressing pressing health challenges. Professor Alex Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU, expressed excitement about the direction and commitment shown by all committee members, highlighting the valuable engagement of field experts and the integration of innovative curriculum design.

The discussions underscored the need for a robust network of resources to support the medical school, with plans to add more clinical partnerships as the proposal moves forward. Both Sir Michael Houghton and Dr. Spiegel voiced their strong support for the initiative, noting that engaging global pioneers and seasoned professionals is crucial for the success of the new medical school. They emphasized that the innovative curriculum is designed to enhance transdisciplinary research while integrating Eastern and Western medical philosophies, providing a comprehensive educational experience.

The establishment of the Frontier Translational Medical Research Institute is particularly noteworthy. This institute will be co-led by key figures, including Sir Michael Houghton and Professor Johnson Lau, focusing on various sectors of healthcare, including medical devices, diagnostics, and integrative medicine. This initiative represents a necessary response to contemporary global health challenges such as aging populations and pandemics.

In alignment with these goals, a symposium titled “Nobel Laureate Symposium – Hepatitis C Virus and Drug Development” was held on February 24, featuring talks from the above-mentioned experts on their insights and experiences related to drug development. This discussion was moderated by Professor Manson Fok and Professor Johnson Lau, aiming to inspire future generations of medical professionals through pathways established by current medical leaders.

Overall, the vision for HKBU's new medical school is to integrate the health horizons of the Greater Bay Area. By promoting innovative teaching methods and proactive research, HKBU seeks to address public health challenges effectively and enhance the capabilities of future healthcare providers. As advancements in medicine are projected to expand immensely, HKBU is poised to be at the forefront, championing new educational models that foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.

This initiative is not only a key development for HKBU but also a strategic move to advance medical education in Hong Kong and the surrounding regions, ensuring that they meet the demands of modern healthcare needs and contribute positively to the global medical community.