In Loving Memory of Emeritus Professor CHAN Sai Cheung (1935 – 2026)

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Emeritus Professor Chan Sai Cheung, former Dean of Science and a distinguished pillar of the Department of Chemistry, who passed away peacefully in Vancouver on 15 February 2026 at the age of 91. We honour Professor Chan as a visionary leader and an accomplished inorganic chemist whose legacy continues to shape our academic community today.

Professor Chan’s association with HKU spanned more than three decades of dedicated service. An alumnus of the University, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science (First Class Honours) and a Master of Science in 1957 and 1959 respectively, before completing his PhD at the University of London in 1962. He first joined the Department of Chemistry as a Demonstrator in September 1956. Over the next 34 years, he rose steadily through the academic ranks, retiring in August 1990 as a Chair Professor. In recognition of his immense contributions to the University and to science, he was conferred the title of Emeritus Professor in 1990.

A respected figure in the international chemistry community, Professor Chan was a pioneer in inorganic chemistry. His scholarly achievements were recognised by the award of the Doctor of Science (DSc) degree from the University of London, and by his election as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC) and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA).

Working at a time when research resources were far more limited than today, he nevertheless produced a rigorous and influential body of work, including many publications in international leading journals such as Nature and top journals of the American Chemical Society and the Royal Society of Chemistry. His research in inorganic and coordination chemistry, particularly on reaction mechanisms in transition-metal complexes, contributed to the foundational understanding of metal complex reactivity. His work helped establish inorganic chemistry as a recognised strength at HKU, placing the University’s research in the field firmly on the international map. He also served the wider scholarly community as a journal editor.

Beyond research achievements, Professor Chan was a pivotal leader, serving as the Dean of Science from 1977 to 1983, guiding the Faculty through a period of development and strengthening its commitment to academic excellence. His leadership laid important foundations for the Faculty’s continued growth and reputation.

A familiar presence in the University’s Senior Common Room, the former Dean was known for his warmth, openness, and genuine interest in others. His collegial spirit and unassuming manner made him a valued mentor and a cherished member of the HKU community. 

Professor Chan will be remembered not only for his scholarly work and leadership, but also for his humility and dedication to mentoring younger generations. Many postgraduate students and junior colleagues benefited from his thoughtful guidance and encouragement, later establishing distinguished academic careers around the globe.

Professor Chan’s passion for chemistry and his devotion to the Faculty have left an indelible mark on all whose lives he touched. He will be dearly missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of scholars to come.

Professor Qiang ZHOU                  Professor Xiaoyu LI

Dean of Science                              Head of Chemistry