The University of Macau (UM) and Dr. Stanley Ho Medical Development Foundation (SHMDF) jointly held the 2024 Distinguished Scholars Forum as part of the ‘Set Sail for New Horizons, Create the Future’ Grant. Held in a hybrid format, the forum brought together renowned experts and scholars to share their latest research findings in health sciences and big data applications in healthcare.

Speaking at the event, Ge Wei, vice rector of UM, said that the Distinguished Scholars Forum showcased innovative research, enhanced public understanding of health sciences and Chinese medicine, and promoted research translation for the benefit of humanity. As an international public comprehensive university in Macao, UM actively supports the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development strategy through its ‘3+3+3+3’ strategic research layout. To seize the new opportunities presented by the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin and the development of UM’s campus in the Cooperation Zone, UM will continue to expand its student body, enhance its international influence, and inject new vitality into the development of Macao and the Greater Bay Area.

In his speech, Huen Wing Ming, chairman of the Board of Trustees and Board of Directors of SHMDF, said that the forum not only provided a platform for experts and scholars to present their latest research in health sciences and big data in healthcare and the relevant applications, but also offered researchers and students opportunities to interact with renowned scholars and explore potential collaborations.

The forum featured guest speaker Ye Keqiang, chair professor at Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology, who discussed the development of a next-generation diagnostic probe for Parkinson’s disease. Associate Professors Lu Jiahong and Ouyang Defang in the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences (ICMS), Professor Kwok Hang Fai in the Faculty of Health Sciences, and Associate Professor Jia Yanwei in the Institute of Microelectronics at UM also gave detailed reports on the progress and results of their funded research projects. The forum concluded with the closing remarks by Li Peng, deputy director of ICMS.

During the event, Chairman Huen Wing Ming, Michael Ching, director of operations (Macao) of SHMDF, and Fok Kuan Hang, research director of SHMDF, exchanged views with Prof Li Peng and the funded professors on various research projects.