City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) proudly announces the establishment of the College of Biomedicine, a groundbreaking initiative designed to tackle pressing challenges in life and health sciences through interdisciplinary collaboration. This new College will leverage the strengths of existing research areas in biomedical sciences, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, and digital medicine.

This visionary initiative aims to attract global pharmaceutical and medical device enterprises to conduct research, development, and clinical trials in Hong Kong. It aligns seamlessly with the Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive’s Policy Address to transform Hong Kong into an international hub for health and medical innovation by establishing an authority for the “primary evaluation” of drugs and medical devices.

The College of Biomedicine commenced operations on 1 January 2025, starting with three constituent units: the Department of Biomedical Sciences, the Department of Biomedical Engineering, and the Department of Neuroscience. We are honoured to announce the appointment of Professor Isaiah Arkin as the new Dean of the College, effective March 2025. Professor Arkin is a Distinguished Visiting Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at CityUHK. His research focuses on viral membrane proteins, a field in which he has made significant contributions. He has previously served at the Hebrew University, the University of Cambridge, and D.E. Shaw Research.

Professor Freddy Boey, President and University Distinguished Professor of CityUHK, stated, “The new College of Biomedicine will fortify our role, vision, and mission of being a global leader in interdisciplinary education, research, and innovation for biomedicine and health.”

CityUHK convened a dedicated task force to conduct a comprehensive review of the existing academic structure and related disciplines, ensuring the feasibility and potential advantages of establishing the new College.

Professor Michael Yang Mengsu, Senior Vice-President (Innovation and Enterprise) and Chairperson of the task force remarked, “The task force received robust support from faculty, healthcare and industry professionals for the establishment of the new College.”

He added, “Prestigious institutions worldwide have adopted similar strategies to foster multidisciplinary collaboration by integrating biomedical sciences, biomedical engineering, and life sciences, achieving significant outcomes.”

Earlier in 2024, CityUHK established the College of Computing and the Institute of Digital Medicine to promote interdisciplinary research and drive impactful advancements. The new College of Biomedicine will provide a comprehensive education platform, preparing graduates for diverse and dynamic careers in biomedical sciences and engineering. It will also conduct groundbreaking research in life sciences and health technology, contributing to our understanding of life and disease and addressing global medical and health challenges.

CityUHK remains committed to pioneering advancements in health and medical innovation, and the establishment of the College of Biomedicine marks a significant milestone in our journey towards excellence.