About the Hong
Kong Laureate
Forum
Welcome to the December 2024 issue of the newsletter of the Hong Kong Laureate Forum!
The preparations for the Hong Kong Laureate Forum 2025 (the Forum) are in full swing, featuring a diverse array of exciting programmes, including sessions led by Shaw Laureates as speakers. We are honoured to announce that several Shaw Laureates have confirmed their attendance at the Forum, including (listed by discipline and most recent award year):
Michael Perryman (2022 Astronomy)
Steven A Balbus (2013 Astronomy)
Eva Nogales (2023 Life Science and Medicine)
Peter Walter (2014 Life Science and Medicine)
Additionally, several Shaw Laureates have also expressed interest in attending the Forum. Once we have more information about the confirmed participating Shaw Laureates, we will announce the updated list of laureates attending the Forum.
These distinguished world-renowned scientists will join young scientists from around the world for cross-generational, cross-cultural, and interdisciplinary exchanges during the Forum, which is scheduled to be held from 5-8 November 2025, inspiring the development of new scientific ideas. We will select 200 young scientists globally to participate in this prestigious event. The world-wide open application for the Forum will commence on 13 January 2025 (00:00 HKT) until 31 March 2025 (23:59 HKT). We welcome applications from PhD graduates, postgraduate (PhD / Master) students, as well as undergraduate students aged 35 or below who are pursuing studies or research in Astronomy, Life Science and Medicine, Mathematical Sciences, or other closely related fields. All applications will be reviewed by an international Scientific Review Panel. Further details about the event, application and selection criteria will be announced on our website and social media platforms.
In the meantime, we are organising a "Prelude to the Forum" to broaden the scientific horizons of the young scientists in Hong Kong, allowing them to exchange ideas and prepare for their journey in scientific research. This two-day event will be held from 24-25 March 2025. The event will invite local scholars in Astronomy, Life Science and Medicine, and Mathematical Sciences to share their research and personal experiences. We aim to help young scientists address topics which are crucial to their research career, such as communication skills, career development, and planning, through panel discussions, seminars, and group discussions, where they can exchange invaluable ideas, knowledge and experiences. We welcome the Young Scientists and Forum Ambassadors who have participated in the inaugural Hong Kong Laureate Forum, as well as other PhD graduates, postgraduate and undergraduate students who are eager to pursue a path of scientific research, to register for this event. More details and registration information will be unveiled on our website and social media platforms.
To further enhance the understanding and interest of the young people of different age groups in science and technology, we have been organising the "Exploring New Horizons" series since 2021. So far, we have arranged over 40 laboratory and research facility visits and sharing sessions, providing secondary school students with opportunities to expand their horizons and interact directly with researchers. These events have been highly praised by local secondary school students and teachers, with many students expressing that visiting research labs and interacting directly with scientists have sparked their interest in pursuing careers in research. We greatly appreciate the ongoing support of local universities and research institutes, and we are excited to announce that "Exploring New Horizons 2025" will be held from January to March 2025. During this period, 18 lab visits will be arranged, covering various scientific fields. Check out here to view more details! Interested local secondary schools are encouraged to complete the online form by 9 January 2025 (12:00).
Additionally, the "G3 Alliance", founded by the HKLF, the Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education, and Centum Charitas Foundation, has been committed to identifying and nurturing young innovative talents while promoting the integration of science and technology with societal needs since its inception. This year, G3 Alliance successfully hosted the inaugural "Young STEAM Talent Award". The awardees demonstrated impressive creativity and knowledge in science and technology and have actively contributed to society, setting an example for their peers. To further support these talented individuals, G3 Alliance has developed the Nurturing Programme, including mentorship in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) fields from top-tier mentors. These outstanding Young STEAM Talents will receive personalised guidance and training, enabling them to continue learning, developing their creativity, and making contributions to the society. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the mentors for their invaluable support in cultivating the next generation of innovative scientific talent. Given the great success of the inaugural competition, the enthusiasm and anticipation from everyone have empowered us to host the second "Young STEAM Talent Award". Registration for the competition is now open, and the deadline for submission is 10 February 2025 (17:00). Please click here for more details.
We look forward to your active participation and continued engagement as we explore more scientific and innovative wonders together through these enriching activities!
Lastly, as we are fast approaching 2025, the HKLF wishes everyone a prosperous and healthy new year!
