The hk prize is one of Asia’s premier awards, honoring scientific research that has significant societal benefit. It encourages young scientists to follow their passion while broadening their perspectives with access to Hong Kong’s premier research facilities. In addition, the judging process is free from sponsorship and personal interests, with a high standard of moral integrity.
The winners of this year’s hk prize will receive a monetary award, a trophy, and a scholarship to attend seminars or internships at Hong Kong universities and laboratories. During their time in Hong Kong, the recipients will have an opportunity to meet leaders from around the world and learn about cutting-edge scientific research conducted here.
Scientists from various fields of research have been nominated for this year’s prize, including artificial intelligence and robotics, life and health, new materials and new energy, and advanced manufacturing and fintech. The winning researcher will be presented with a trophy and a cash prize of HKD 2,000,000. However, no more than five persons will be awarded in each field. Furthermore, the same person should not be rewarded in each field within 5 years.
Founded in 2012, this competition is open to all enrolled secondary school students in Hong Kong. To enter, students must be nominated by their teachers. Students are required to submit artworks online by the submission deadline, with their nominating teacher’s name included on the entry form. Students may only submit three pieces of work. A panel of judges will select the top 20 student artists for shortlist, with a Judges Prize of HK$8,000 being awarded to the student whose artwork scores the highest mark from the judges.
This year’s winner of the hk prize is Thein Swee Lay and Stuart Orkin, who have discovered a gene-editing technique to reactivate fetal haemoglobin production. The breakthrough has enabled the Food and Drug Administration to approve two sickle cell therapies, demonstrating how basic discovery research can lead to life-saving treatments.
The Hong Kong Alliance of Technology and Innovation (HKAIT) is the governing body for BOCHK SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION PRIZE. The Board is responsible for interpreting and implementing the charter of THE PRIZE, suggesting important scientific research fields for THE PRIZE; setting requirements for nominating experts; reviewing and interpreting the review results; and supervising the operation of THE PRIZE to ensure that it operates professionally, objectively, and fairly. In addition, the Board will also promote international cooperation and high ethical standards in THE PRIZE. The Board is composed of a Review Committee, a Compliance Oversight Team, and a Secretariat.