More than 20 science talks covering various science disciplines will be offered in 2024-25. 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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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, Prof. Jin 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 New
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 New
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. |
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. |
ST0186
A Story of Light: From a Prism to a Smartphone By Faculty of Science
Level: F.5 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): PhysicsOnce upon a time, after Newton studied the properties of light via a prism, the light was an object that confused physicists for a long time; they asked, ‘Does light behave as a particle (like a football) or a wave (like a water wave)?’ This talk will explore how physicists found the answer throughout the years by experimenting and examining theoretical formulations. We will also explore the endeavour of answering the question: new knowledge emerged, leading to modern electronics and the era of smartphones. |
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! |
 ST0188
Why Is Food Just So Tasty?
By School of Biological Sciences
Level: F.5 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology and ChemistryFood is an essential component of our daily life. It is full of flavour, and we decide if we enjoy or do not enjoy the taste of a particular food. Our tongue is one of the decision makers for the taste of food, determining if it is sweet or salty, fresh or non-fresh, bitter, and has many other sensory perceptions. The tongue responds to certain chemicals to give us the flavour of food. Here, I will explain how we determine the taste of food and why certain foods are tastier. |
ST0192 New
The Glow of Chemistry: Exploring the Science Behind Luminescence By Department of Chemistry
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Chemistry and PhysicsDiscover how light interacts with molecules to produce stunning visual effects. We’ll explore the natural glow of fireflies, the vibrant colours of fireworks, and the technology behind mobile phone displays. Learn about the chemical reactions and physical processes that create these fascinating phenomena and gain insights into the practical applications of luminescence in everyday life. This talk promises to shed light on the magical world of luminescence and its diverse manifestations. |
Ecology, Environment and Planet Earth |
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ST0193 New
Dino Detective By Department of Earth Sciences
Level: F.4 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Geography and PhysicsDid you know that some of the dinosaurs had feathers and could fly? Can you believe that Tyrannosaurus could not run fast and was not scary at all? Have you heard that some dinosaurs were blue, orange, or pink? Do you think that some dinosaurs ate fruits and vegetables and were not terrifying? How do we know if dinosaurs roared or not? This talk will discuss how scientists look for clues preserved in ancient fossils and rocks. |
ST0194 New
Earthquakes (offered in the first term only) By Department of Earth Sciences
Level: F.5 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Geography and PhysicsThis lecture explores earthquakes. It starts with tremors near Hong Kong and their seismograph representations, which provide valuable insights into the intensity and duration of these tremors. We’ll also explore the science behind these natural phenomena, examining notable global earthquakes. Our exploration will also encompass notable earthquakes that have occurred globally, analysing their causes and impacts. The discussion extends to earthquake hazards, emphasising the importance of earthquake early warning systems that can provide crucial minutes for people to seek safety. The lecture will also stress the importance of preparedness, including understanding evacuation routes and having emergency supplies on hand. |
ST0195 New
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. |
ST0196 New
Tales of Supercontinents in Earth’s History By Department of Earth Sciences
Level: F.5 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): Biology, Chemistry, Geography and PhysicsSupercontinent forms when all oceanic crust is consumed through plate subduction, and nearly all continental blocks on Earth collide with each other and coalesce into a single landmass. The assembly of a supercontinent was completed by global-scale continent-continent collision, whereas the rising of a super-mantle plume often caused the breakup of a supercontinent. Consequently, such global-scale events that led to the assembly and breakup of a supercontinent will not only play important roles in the formation and evolution of earth’s lithosphere but will also have significant effects on its hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere, which will further affect Earth’s habitable environments. |
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. |
ST0190
Bayes' Theorem and the Mathematics of Belief By Faculty of Science
Level: F.5 – F.6
HKDSE Related Subject(s): MathematicsWe frequently use probability in two different ways: referring to how frequently an outcome may occur or our subjective level of confidence that an outcome will occur. This workshop will explore how Bayes’ Theorem allows us to switch between these interpretations and will explore some daily life applications. |
ST0197 New
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 Stars
by 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? |
