HKU Shines at 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva
HKU has showcased its innovative prowess at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, held from 9 to 13 April 2025. With an impressive tally of 34 awards, including one prestigious special grand prize, HKU's participation underscores its commitment to addressing critical global challenges through cutting-edge research.
Among the standout achievements was the project titled "Live-attenuated Influenza Vaccine with Alpha-1,3-Galactosyltransferase Expression to Enhance Immune Response." This pioneering initiative, led by Prof. Leo L.M. Poon and Dr. Alex W.H. Chin from the School of Public Health, garnered the Special Grand Prize – Saudi Innovation Excellence Prize and a Gold Medal with Jury Congratulations. The vaccine aims to enhance immune responses by modifying the influenza virus, demonstrating a significant advancement in vaccination technology.
HKU's diverse projects reflect the University's dedication to finding solutions across various fields, including biomedicine, engineering, and advanced garment manufacturing. Six other projects also received Gold Medals with Jury Congratulations, illustrating the breadth of innovation stemming from HKU. These include a multimodal medical screening platform, AI-powered blood pressure monitoring, and several groundbreaking cancer therapies.
One notable project, developed by Prof. Desmond Yap and his team, presents a portable Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) system for early detection and monitoring of vital organs. This non-invasive technology promises to transform primary healthcare settings, offering a unique solution for disease detection accessible to both patients and healthcare professionals.
Another project, led by Mr Nicholas Tze Yin Kwok and Prof. Joshua Wing Kei Ho, focuses on utilising AI to create a non-invasive blood pressure monitoring system that leverages the capabilities of mobile devices. This innovation not only enhances patient convenience but also seamlessly integrates into telemedicine practices, paving the way for more efficient home healthcare.
Prof. Max Shen, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) at HKU, expressed pride in the University's achievements, highlighting the significant impact these innovations could have on society. "Our success at the International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva is a testament to the exceptional work of our researchers and their unwavering commitment to creating meaningful solutions," he stated.
As HKU continues to lead in innovation and research, its accomplishments at this prestigious event reinforce its role as a key player in developing sustainable solutions that address pressing societal needs. The future looks promising for HKU as it remains dedicated to fostering advancements that enhance the quality of life globally.