Nobel Heroes Meet Future Innovators at HKUST

What do the eggs of sea urchins, car exhaust, sticky tape, and risk and reward have in common? Each sparked a discovery that secured a Nobel Prize.

Four Nobel laureates shared fascinating stories from their decades of research experience at a fireside chat with over 400 students, faculty, and members of the public. The event, Nobel Heroes@HKUST, was part of HKUST’s 35th anniversary celebrations. 

The laureates were:

Prof. Tim HUNT (2001 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine)

Prof. Louis J. IGNARRO (1998 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine)

Prof. Robert C. MERTON (1997 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences)

Prof. Konstantin NOVOSELOV (2010 Nobel Prize in Physics)

The session, which was moderated by HKUST Council Member and Adjunct Professor Prof. Poman LO, overflowed with insights that reflect HKUST’s mission to cultivate the next generation of visionary innovators.

The highlights video captures the passion, wisdom, and infectious curiosity of these incredible minds.

Just days after, HKUST also hosted the Nobel Symposium, organized by the HKUST Jockey Club Institute for Advanced Study (IAS). The gathering brought together over 450 attendees and showcased visionary insights on topics spanning superconductivity, energy innovation, neutrino physics, and the evolution of the universe. 

Together, these events marked a remarkable convergence of scientific giants on campus, enriching HKUST’s vibrant intellectual environment while inspiring the entire HKUST community.