10 Mar 2026

Lighting the Spark at Nobel Week

“As the lights dimmed in Stockholm’s Concert Hall and a Nobel laureate stepped to the podium, I realised that my vision of what a career in physics could be had changed forever.”

--Gordon Yat Long WONG, Year 5 Science Master Class student (majoring in Physics)

Meeting with Professor Omar YAGHI, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry 2025

Gordon with fellow participants in the Nobel Week programme

Gordon (bottom left) with fellow participants in the Nobel Week programme

Stepping into the crisp air of Stockholm, Sweden, for Nobel Week was more than an academic field trip, it marked a turning point in how I see my future in physics. As a student in the Science Master Class at HKU, I took on a dual role: an eager participant immersed in world-class physics and a student leader guiding a group of Hong Kong high schoolers throughout the programme. This unique vantage point allowed me to deepen my own scientific understanding while witnessing the “spark” of discovery ignite in the next generation.

A Journey Beyond the Textbook

The tour was designed to immerse us in the history and significance of the Nobel Prize while introducing us to cutting-edge scientific ideas, including macroscopic quantum phenomena and metal-organic frameworks. Learning how fundamental discoveries in physics, chemistry, and related fields have shaped our world reminded me of the long-term impact of scientific research.

For me, the experience reinforced a deeper motivation: to pursue physics not only as an academic discipline but also as a way to contribute to society. As an aspiring researcher, I hope to one day follow in the footsteps of these pioneers by pursuing a PhD and contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.

Nobel laureates, scientists & experts discussing global issues at the Nobel Dialogue Day.

Wisdom from the Podium

One of the most memorable experiences was attending the Nobel lectures and the Nobel Week Dialogue. Listening to Nobel laureates reflect on their discoveries and decades-long careers was both humbling and inspiring.

What struck me most was how frequently they emphasised curiosity and persistence rather than immediate success. Many shared that their ideas were initially met with scepticism, and that their research journeys were marked by setbacks and uncertainty.

As a physics student, I often find myself absorbed in problem sets and examinations, but hearing these stories was a powerful reminder that true scientific progress begins not with answers, but with meaningful questions and the courage to explore the unknown. The dialogue sessions also highlighted the deep connection between science and global challenges, demonstrating how scientific research is intertwined with society’s broader needs.

Nobel Week Lights at Stockholm City Hall

Science, Culture, and Community

Beyond the academic programme, Stockholm itself offered a rich cultural dimension to the experience. Visiting the Stockholm City Hall and Concert Hall, venues where the Nobel ceremonies take place, made the entire experience feel more tangible and immediate. Walking through the city during the Nobel Week Lights lightshow and exploring museums allowed us to appreciate how deeply science is woven into Sweden’s cultural identity and history.

Serving as a student leader during the tour added another meaningful layer to the experience. The role challenged my communication and mentorship skills as I guided younger students through the programme and supported their engagement with the lectures and discussions. Encouraging them to ask questions and connect with peers from around the world reminded me how important it is to make science accessible and exciting for the next generation. Their curiosity and enthusiasm reminded me of why I chose to study physics in the first place.

Furthermore, interacting with students from different countries broadened my perspective. We exchanged ideas about cultural differences, science, and future aspirations. These interactions made me appreciate the international nature of science and the importance of collaboration across cultures.

Carrying the Spark Forward

Overall, the Nobel Week Tour was a valuable experience that strengthened my passion for physics and broadened my understanding of science in a global context. Much like the Grand Master tutorials at HKU Science, where leading scientists share the stories behind their discoveries, the opportunity to hear directly from Nobel laureates offered invaluable insight into the realities of a scientific career. It also allowed me to grow as an aspiring researcher and mentor.

I am grateful to the HKU Admissions Office and the Faculty of Science for making this experience possible. More importantly, the journey has reinforced my commitment to carrying forward the spirit of curiosity, collaboration, and responsibility that defines the scientific community.

Group photo