Nobel Heroes@HKUST: Science Titans Inspire Next Generation at Landmark Anniversary Event

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) today hosted "Nobel Heroes@HKUST", a special forum featuring four Nobel Laureates who engaged in close interactions with over 400 students, faculty members, and public guests. Held as highlight of HKUST's 35th anniversary celebrations, the event underscored the University's dedication to bridging world-renowned scholars with the local community and reinforcing its role as a leading hub for knowledge and talent development.

The Nobel Laureates—honored in Physiology or Medicine, Economic Sciences, Chemistry, and Physics—shared their personal research journeys and insights into the boundless world of scientific discovery. Moderated by HKUST Council Member and Adjunct Professor of the Department of Management, Prof. Poman LO, the forum included vibrant Q&A sessions that explored pressing global challenges and the future of innovation. The distinguish Nobel Laureates were:

• Prof. Tim HUNT (Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2001), recognized for discoveries of key regulators of the cell cycle;

• Prof. Louis J. IGNARRO (Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 1998), honored for revealing the role of nitric oxide as a signalling molecule in the cardiovascular system;

• Prof. Robert C. MERTON (Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences 1997), acclaimed for developing a new method to determine the value of derivatives

• Prof. Konstantin NOVOSELOV (Nobel Prize in Physics 2010), distinguished for groundbreaking experiments on the two-dimensional material graphene.

Prof. Hunt shared the journey of his team's discovery of the cell cycle regulator, noting that it was initially deemed "theoretically impossible" by the academic community. However, through years of persistent research and repeated verification, they ultimately succeeded in confirming the existence and function of this factor. He emphasized that researchers should focus on exploring fundamental scientific questions with significant impact, rather than being constrained by their immediate practical applications.

Prof. Ignarro recalled how an accidental observation of a postdoctoral researcher's cigarette smoke inspired him to reveal the property of nitric oxide in dilating arteries. He emphasized the importance of curiosity in scientific research and encouraged researchers to embrace innovative thinking and forge their own paths. He also encouraged young researchers to uphold a never-give-up spirit. Drawing on his personal experiences in sports such as baseball, he stressed that the key to success lies in “playing to win,” not merely seeking enjoyment.

Prof. Merton inspired the audience with an analogy from the investment world: risk and return are inseparable—the greater the risk undertaken, the higher the potential return. He emphasized that to pursue more promising opportunities, one must be prepared to accept a corresponding increase in uncertainty.

Prof. Novoselov pointed out that research work should be grounded in genuine passion and curiosity, rather than chasing fleeting trends that lack long-term value. He advised researchers to choose fields that can consistently ignite their enthusiasm for inquiry, avoiding the pitfall of giving up midway due to a mere whim.

HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP extended her heartfelt gratitude to the distinguished Nobel Laureates and the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings for this exceptional partnership, which meaningfully coincides with HKUST's 35th‑anniversary celebrations. She remarked, "Education is not a one-way transmission of facts; it is a vibrant dialogue that stretches the imagination and reshapes assumptions. Today's dialogue is not just an opportunity to meet these esteemed scientists; it is a chance to engage with the very essence of scientific inquiry and discovery. The journeys of our Nobel Laureates exemplify the spirit of curiosity, creativity, innovation, and resilience that we strive to nurture at HKUST. Their achievements demonstrate that science knows no boundaries and that collaboration across disciplines and borders is essential for addressing the challenges we face."

Co-organized by HKUST, Laureates City Holdings Limited, Red Carpet Investments Limited, and Sunwah Kingsway Capital Holdings Limited, and proudly supported by the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings, this event underscores Hong Kong's growing stature as a global hub for innovation, technology, and academic exchange.