More than 20 science talks covering various science disciplines will be offered in 2025-26. Our teachers will deliver science and admissions talks at local secondary and international schools. The talks cover a variety of science topics, ranging from recent scientific discoveries to thematic science issues related to our daily lives. They are suitable for F.4, F.5, and F.6 students and international school students of equivalent level.
Categories of science talks |
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Developments in Drugs and Medical Science |
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ST0004
Understanding CancerBy School of Biomedical Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): BiologyCancer is a genetic disease caused by alterations in oncogenes and other related genes. In this talk, the speaker will first introduce the ground-breaking discovery of oncogenes, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1989. How a normal gene can become an oncogene through mutations, and the underlying mechanisms, will be explained. Examples will be provided to illustrate how our understanding of oncogene function has led to a revolution in the design and development of highly specific and effective anti-cancer drugs that target oncogenes. This new form of individualized treatment is known as precision medicine. |
ST0183
Understanding COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2By School of Biomedical Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): BiologyThe pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still ongoing. In this talk, the speaker will give a brief introduction to the science of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2. The talk will cover all important areas including the origin of SARS-CoV-2, the life cycle of the virus, the COVID-19 disease, diagnosis, treatment and vaccine development. Particularly, he will explain how HKU scientists made a difference in the fight against COVID-19. He will also provide an answer to many key questions, such as whether SARS-CoV-2 is man-made, how vaccines are made, as well as how safe and effective existing vaccines are. |
ST0184
Stem Cell Therapies – Reality vs. HypeBy School of Biomedical Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): BiologyWhat are stem cells? Why the doctors and scientists are so excited about stem cells? Recently, biomedical scientists reported the creation of the first human synthetic model embryos. Such breakthroughs could help research genetic disorders but raise serious ethical and legal concerns. In the first part of this talk, the speaker will discuss the unique features of stem cells, the different types of stem cells and some of their potential applications (i.e., hopes). The second part of the talk will focus on ethical issues in stem cell research and therapy. |
ST0191
Secrets of Teenage Growth: The Biology Behind Becoming TallerBy School of Biomedical Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): BiologyHave you ever been surprised to find your classmate growing several inches taller after summer vacation? This remarkable transformation is not magic but the result of the fascinating process of human bone growth. In this talk, we will uncover the critical role of cartilage growth plates – the specialised areas of growth located in our long bones – and understand the powerful influence of hormones in this process. We will debunk common myths and misconceptions about height increase, replacing folklore with scientific facts. Furthermore, we will explore what happens when this orchestrated growth regulation does not go as planned, leading to rare bone diseases that affect the length, strength, and function of bones. |
ST0198
Learn from Nature, Drug Discovery from Tiny MicrobeBy Department of Chemistry
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology, ChemistryThe alarming increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, known as "superbugs," is a significant global health issue. In this talk, Prof. Li will provide a concise overview of antibiotic resistance and the cutting-edge strategies used to develop new antibiotics to fight these dangerous pathogens. Essential topics covered include the origins of antibiotic resistance, the discovery of antibiotics, and the innovative methods employed by HKU scientists to combat antibiotic resistance. The talk will discuss how we can draw inspiration from nature in discovering new antibiotics by learning from the diverse chemicals produced by microbes. Additionally, it will emphasise using state-of-the-art techniques such as AI, big data, synthetic chemistry, and synthetic biology in the quest for new antibiotics. This talk aims to motivate and inform secondary school students about the vital role of scientific progress in tackling global health challenges. | |
ST0201 New
Exploring our Gene: Drug Development to Combat CancersBy Department of Chemistry
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology, ChemistryCancers has long been the major cause of mortality in Hong Kong. Genomic and biochemical studies have increasingly played an important role in prognosis, diagnosis, and drug development against a variety of cancers. In this talk, an overview of the nature and risk factors for cancers will be reviewed. Methods to identify the potential biomarkers and targets by DNA sequencing and biomolecular investigations will be shared. Some steps of drug development including structureactivity relationships (SAR), pharmacophore identifications, lead optimisations and pharmacokinetic studies will be covered. Examples of how drug molecules act against different targets in cancers will be shown for students to appreciate the mechanism of action of potential drug candidates based on scientific research. |
Developments in Science and Technology |
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ST0160
How May Artificial Intelligence Change Our Society? By Faculty of Science
Level: F.4 – F.5
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics and PhysicArtificial Intelligence is no longer a postulate about the future, but is already bringing noticeable impacts to our current society. Will the AI revolution lead to a reform in our economy? Is it simply another Industrial Revolution? We will address these questions in the talk. |
ST0173
Go with the Electron Flow By Department of Chemistry
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology and ChemistryFlow is all around us, ranging from intangible information flow to tangible water flow. Through careful inspection, one will be intrigued to find that electron flow serves as the backbone to support life processes and enable a sustainable society. In this talk, we will share with the audience some thoughts on and experience in dealing with electron flows found in biological contexts and artificial settings, including but not limited to biofilms, DNA, proteins, sensors, energy catalysis systems, and electrochemical devices. Join us and enjoy an electrifying Science Talk! |
ST0176
Molecular Gastronomy: The Science of CookingBy Department of Chemistry
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology and ChemistryChemistry lies at the heart of the very finest food available, and the science of cooking has recently moved from the playground of a few chiefs into the realm of serious scientific endeavour. Applying chemistry and other sciences to restaurant and domestic cooking revolutionised the dining experience and led to new enjoyment and appreciation of food. In this talk, we will cover some applications of chemical and physical techniques in restaurant kitchens to produce novel textures and flavour combinations. |
ST0177
Bending the Laws of Nature: From Microscopy to Nanoscopy By Department of Chemistry
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology, Chemistry and PhysicsThe optical microscope has enabled us to peer into the microscopic world and shed light on biological processes at the cellular level in a non-destructive manner. Over the years, breakthroughs in chemical and biological techniques have further allowed cellular and sub-cellular components to be identified with high degrees of specificity. However, a fundamental set of physical laws limits the spatial resolution in optical microscopy. This restricts the ability of optical instruments to distinguish distances at the nanoscale and thus limits their utility in resolving fine details of important sub-cellular structures. In this talk, we will journey through technological advances and illustrate how interdisciplinary innovations have bypassed the physical barrier and eventually led to the Nobel-winning technology of super-resolution nanoscopy. |
ST0187
Nutrition and (Epi)Genome By School of Biological Sciences
Level: F.5 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology and ChemistryNutritional genomic study has become popular and aims to optimise human health and quality of life. It encompasses the association between dietary exposure and our genome. The interaction could be either the influence of specific nutrients on gene expression or the effects of fixed genetic variation on response to diet. Epigenetics is defined as alterations in gene function without a change in DNA sequence. Epigenome refers to the physical pattern of DNA, including DNA methylations and histone modifications. Many of these carrying patterns of gene expression are stably inherited by progeny cells following mitosis. Evidence shows that what parents eat will affect their unborn child and subsequently affect their grandchildren. We are not only what we eat. We are also what our parents and grandparents ate! |
ST0199 New
Zooming into Cells: Cryo-EM Reveals Cellular SecretsBy School of Biological Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.5
HKDSE Related Subject(s): BiologyInside every cell lies an intricate microscopic world made up of biological macromolecules—structures so small they are measured in nanometers. To observe these tiny components, scientists use cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM), a groundbreaking technique that earned the 2017 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. In this talk, the speaker will first explain how cryo-EM works, then delve into a real-world example: how the organization of membrane proteins influences cell-cell communication. Through this, we will see how structural biology unlocks our understanding of essential biological processes. |
ST0200 New
Teen Power: How Food Shapes Your Mood, Mind & MusclesBy School of Biological Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology and ChemistryThis talk explores how essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats play critical roles in brain function, emotional regulation, and physical growth. Scientific research demonstrating how certain foods and nutrients can enhance mood stability, improve cognitive abilities such as memory and concentration, and support muscle development will also be explained. |
Ecology, Environment and Planet Earth |
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ST0195
Groundwater: An Invisible Treasure On Earth By Department of Earth Sciences
Level: F.5 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Geography and PhysicsWhen standing in front of running rivers or calm lakes, we might recall words of Lao Tzu: ‘The highest good is like water, nourishing all things and not contending with them (老子雲：上善若水，水利萬物而不爭)’. However, what we see is only a thin veneer of freshwater on earth. The majority (~99%) of liquid freshwater is from invisible underground, termed groundwater. It provides potable water for humans, irrigates crops, sustains various ecosystems, etc. The talk will give a picture on the principles and societal impacts of groundwater on earth and how it serves as a hub among different Earth spheres and human society. |
ST0202 New
Mechanisms of Large-to-Super Volcanic EruptionsBy Department of Earth Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Chemistry, Geography and PhysicsMore than 800 million people live near active volcanoes and are exposed to the risk of volcanic eruptions. While smaller eruptions occur more frequently, large-magnitude eruptions are rare but far more hazardous. Large or super eruptions can be catastrophic on a global scale, emitting tremendous amounts of volcanic ash and aerosols that affect Earth’s atmospheric circulation and contribute to climate change. What causes these eruptions? How can we find the answers if we cannot dive into volcanic conduits or the Earth’s interior ourselves? This talk will share the perspectives of volcanologists who strive to reveal eruption triggers and provide forecasts using a combination of mineralogical, geochemical, and geophysical approaches. |
ST01203 New
What Do We Know About Tropical Cyclones and Their FutureBy Department of Earth Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): GeographyTropical cyclones are among the most familiar weather systems to citizens in Hong Kong. As the climate continues to warm, how future tropical cyclones will change remains largely unknown. This talk will briefly introduce fundamental knowledge about tropical cyclones, including their genesis, movement, structure, intensity, and associated hazards. More importantly, it will discuss the current understanding—from climatologists’ perspectives—of how and why tropical cyclones may change under projected climate warming. The possible drawbacks of these climate projections will also be discussed, highlighting how limited our knowledge still is in this exciting area. |
ST0204 New
Eyes in the Sky: How Satellite Tracks Marine Algal Blooms By Department of Earth Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology, Geography and PhysicsCovering over two-thirds of Earth’s surface, the ocean plays a vital role in sustaining life on our planet. Tiny marine algae, though often invisible to the naked eye, are responsible for nearly half of Earth’s total biological productivity. Sometimes, these algae grow rapidly into massive blooms—some beneficial, others harmful. How do scientists monitor such events across vast, remote waters? In this talk, we’ll explore how satellites serve as our “eyes in the sky,” capturing ocean color to detect and track marine algal blooms. Through vivid imagery and real-world stories, we’ll uncover how satellite images help us understand and protect our oceans in a changing climate. |
ST0205 New
Why Do Animals Make Noise? And Why Does It Sound Like That? By Faculty of Science
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): BiologyAnimals make a variety of noises, from mating calls to complex communication. But why do they produce these sounds, and what drives the evolution of their vocalizations? |
Mathematics |
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ST0153
What the Man Who Knew Infinity KnewBy Department of Mathematics
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): MathematicsYou may have seen the recent movie “The Man Who Knew Infinity” about the Indian mathematician Ramanujan (and his interactions with GH Hardy and Littlewood, among others). In this talk, we will introduce some of what Ramanujan studied and discuss his impact on the mathematical world since that time. |
ST0181
Counting to InfinityBy Department of Mathematics
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): MathematicsLearning to count is an important developmental milestone in early childhood. But what exactly are we doing when we count? Can the process be generalised in a way that can allow us to compare sets of infinite size? Do all infinite sets essentially have the same size? In this talk, we will try to explore the mysteries of infinite sets and briefly discuss different sizes of infinities. |
ST0182
Prime Numbers: A Simple and Difficult Topic in Number Theory By Department of Mathematics
Level: F.4
HKDSE Related Subject(s): MathematicsAn integer larger than 1 that does not have any divisors other than 1 and itself is called a prime number. It is a simple concept that we have learned since primary school. However, it is at the same time a difficult topic in number theory. There are many unsolved problems related to prime numbers. We will discuss some of these interesting problems in the talk. |
ST0197
The Mathematical Key to Unlocking the Mysteries of CryptographyBy Department of Mathematics
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): MathematicsCryptography is the art of passing secret messages. In this talk, we will discuss the history of secret message passing and the role that mathematics has played in its development. We will also learn about Caesar ciphers, the Enigma machine, the RSA algorithm and prime factorisation, and the discrete logarithm problem for elliptic curves. We will discuss this all within the context of a research-level cryptography problem known as homomorphic encryption that has possible applications to safe shared cloud computing with private or sensitive data. |
Mysteries in Space |
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ST0015
Are We Alone: The Search for Planets around Other Starsby Department of Earth Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology and Physics Are we alone in the Universe? Scientists have made the first step in answering this question by finding planets outside our Solar System. How do they find these planets? Are these planets different from those in our Solar System? What are the prospects for finding planets suitable for life, and what are the signs of life? |
Online application
