CUHK chief Dennis Lo ‘calm’ about talk of Nobel Prize for groundbreaking test

Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, the vice-chancellor and president of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), remains composed when discussing the possibility of receiving a Nobel Prize for his groundbreaking work in non-invasive prenatal testing. In an exclusive interview with the South China Morning Post, Lo expressed a calm attitude towards the prestigious award, crediting his achievements to his team and emphasizing his dedication to science.

He downplayed speculation about the Nobel Prize, stating that scientists should focus on their work rather than seeking recognition. Lo has already been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Lasker Award, Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, and the Future Science Prize, which some consider the Chinese version of the Nobel Prize.

The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine is awarded annually in October, following a year-long selection process and secret nominations that are not revealed for at least 50 years. CUHK recently released its five-year plan, which prioritizes life science technology, with plans to build a 300,000 sq ft medical faculty building in Pak Shek Kok that will host a neuroscience-focused research center.

Lo is optimistic about the potential of neuroscience in addressing diseases like Alzheimer's and recently announced that CUHK researchers are working on diverse subjects such as Mars exploration and studying a subglacial lake in Antarctica. Despite the demands of his new role, Lo remains committed to contributing to scientific progress and improving the relationship between CUHK's medical school and the university-affiliated medical center.