World Class Research Experiences

Sheryl XIE

• BSc&MRes graduate (Major in Physics (Intensive))

• Summer Research Fellowship (SRF) participant in the Department of Physics 

• ORF participant at European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN)
   

"Taking part in research at CERN was truly unforgettable. With support from the HKU ORF Scheme, I joined CERN as a summer student and became part of a vibrant international community. Each day brought inspiring lectures from leading physicists, lively discussions that sparked new ideas, and plenty of laughter with friends from around the world. My project with the ATLAS experiment—calibrating a machine-learning–based anomaly trigger was both challenging and exciting. I loved knowing that what I was building could play a real role in future data-taking. It was a rare chance to combine cutting-edge physics with modern AI tools, and to see how theory turns into practice on one of the world’s largest experiments. Beyond the research, what stays with me most is the sense of belonging. Standing together for the big summer student group photo, I felt proud to be part of a community that pushes the boundaries of science while building friendships that last."

Morris CHAN

• BSc graduate (Major in Geology (Intensive))

• ORF Participant in Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, The University of British Columbia

"The Overseas Research Fellowship Scheme was an incredibly satisfying, enjoyable, and enlightening experience. I had the chance to work with renowned professors in worldwide universities and witnessed the research workflow firsthand. Taking on responsibility for a mini academic research project, I was involved in every stage of work, from preparation to field studies and experiments, then to data interpretations and write-ups. This experience has greatly enriched my understanding of what it is like to work in academia. This ORF Scheme is a precious experiential learning opportunity that I would highly recommend to all science students. It is not merely a research project, but a remarkable journey where you can enrich your personal experiences and discover your own potential."

Peter WONG

• BSc graduate (Major in Biochemistry)

• Participant of an International Influenza Conference in Australia 

• PhD student at the University of Oxford
   

"Participating in this conference broadened my perspective on respiratory virus research. The event featured seminars and presentations on a range of topics, including zoonotic influenza virus spillover, vaccine development, and antiviral efficacy. Beyond the main conference, I also attended the Mini-School of Influenza, a lecture-based programme covering foundational concepts in respiratory virology, public health, epidemiology, surveillance, and research-driven vaccine development. These sessions complemented my studies at HKU and provided an advanced extension of the knowledge I have gained."

Dorothy TSANG

• BSc&MRes student (Major in Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (Intensive))

• Summer Research Fellowship (SRF) participant in the School of Biological Sciences 

• Overseas Research Fellowship (ORF) participant at the University of Copenhagen
   

"During my Summer Research Fellowship, I explored how probiotic therapy can fight liver cancer by studying its effects in mouse models. It was incredible to contribute to developing cutting-edge treatments. Later, as part of my Overseas Research Fellowship in Denmark, I worked on engineering aquaporin—a special protein that transports water—to recycle organic waste from sewage. We experimented with mutations to see if it could transport amino acids and carbohydrates, potentially turning it into a revolutionary waste-recycling tool. These hands-on experiences sparked my passion for research—I love designing experiments and uncovering new insights. They’ve also cemented my dream of pursuing a career in the lab, where I can keep discovering and innovating."

Christina ZHAO

• BSc graduate (Major in Physics)
• ORF Participant at Department of Applied Physics, Yale University

"My year-long research experience at Yale was formative. I was extremely lucky to join a research group that shows great support to undergraduate. That’s the best summer I have ever had, and I enjoyed my life there as a researcher."