Through amalgamating the former four pre-clinical Departments of Anatomy, Biochemistry (Medicine), Pharmacology and Physiology, the School of Biomedical Sciences has been formed under the Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong since 1 June 2009. This is the first-of-its-kind in Hong Kong. The School aims to promote cutting-edge research through interdisciplinary collaboration among basic science investigators and clinicians within the University, generate synergies in team teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and cultivate the next generation of basic researchers and physician scientists in Hong Kong, China, Asia and around the world.

To achieve these ends, five Thematic Research Programs (TRPs) have been established, namely, i) Cancer and Inflammation, ii) Neuro-degeneration, -development and Repair, iii) Reproduction, Development and Endocrinology, iv) Stem Cell and Regeneration, v) Vascular and Metabolic Biology. Researchers in these Programs will be supported by our Research Core Facilities (RCFs) which provide state-of-the-art equipments and services.

We believe that the regrouping of investigators with similar scientific interests and complementary expertise will create the necessary critical mass to make substantial advances and contributions not only to the frontiers in basic biomedical research but also the translation of basic science research to clinical applications. Our ultimate goal is to promote lifesaving research locally, regionally and internationally.

Wai-Yee CHAN, Ph.D.