With over 100 scholars recruited as of December 2025, the University of Hong Kong proudly continues its tradition of bringing together outstanding professors from across the globe to collaborate on groundbreaking research. Our diverse roster of world-class educators represents all disciplines and career stages. Below, you can read about some of our latest additions along with their views on why they chose to join HKU now.
Ferenc KRAUSZ — Chair Professor of Laser Physics Joining HKU in November from the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Krausz is a pioneer in ultrafast laser science and quantum optics, and the recipient of the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics for developing attosecond pulse generation – a breakthrough that has transformed modern physics, chemistry, and materials science. “HKU’s interdisciplinary vision aligns perfectly with the next chapter of my career. I look forward to collaborating with the University’s brilliant minds to explore new frontiers, unlocking new possibilities in both fundamental discovery and technological innovation.” |
Bing ZHANG — Chair Professor of Astrophysics A theoretical astrophysicist renowned for his work on physical mechanisms of Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), Zhang joined HKU as a Global STEM Scholar this July from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas where he was a Distinguished Professor. “HKU offers unique opportunities for scientists dedicated to fundamental research. Specifically, I was given the opportunity to establish the Hong Kong Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics (HKIAA) which aspires to become a center of research excellence in astronomy and astrophysics, a platform for fostering international communication and collaborations, and a key player in China’s fast-growing astronomical enterprise.” |
Manuel Antonio ESPINOZA — Associate Professor, School of Public Health Joining HKU from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Espinoza is a health economist whose work on equity-focused value frameworks and priority setting has greatly improved health technology assessment and policy throughout Central and South America. “Hong Kong and the University of Hong Kong present numerous opportunities for professional growth, exceeding both my previous experiences and initial expectations. The use of health economic tools, health technology assessment and value-based purchasing processes in Hong Kong are still evolving—areas where I hope to contribute through my academic work.” |
John ADEOYE — Assistant Professor, Faculty of Dentistry Having received his academic training at the University of Lagos and his doctoral degree and post-doctoral fellowship from HKU, Adeoye has chosen to continue his academic journey here as Assistant Professor in Digital and Precision Dentistry where he is pioneering AI-based platforms for decision support in oral cancer. “The strong networks, facilities, and mentorship opportunities to continue advancing my research and impact were key factors that led me to join HKU as a faculty member. I was genuinely surprised by the degree of autonomy the job provides. Rather than operating under strict timetables, faculty members are trusted to structure their research, teaching, and service. That flexibility and academic freedom foster innovation and meaningful collaboration.” |
Nicolas DAUPHAS — Chair Professor of Cosmochemistry Formerly the Louis Block Professor at the University of Chicago and the Enrico Fermi Institute, Dauphas is a distinguished planetary scientist and geochemist who has made foundational contributions over his career to understanding the origin of planets and their surface environments. “I joined HKU in 2025 to help build a hub for cosmochemistry and planetary science. This new role will allow me to build on existing partnerships and develop new ones. I aim to establish Hong Kong’s capabilities for space-mission sample analysis.” |
Guoping FAN — Professor, School of Biomedical Sciences Previously a faculty member at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Scintillon Research Institute in San Diego, Fan’s research is advancing epigenetic studies of DNA methylation epigenetics in neural development, disease modeling, and stem cell organoids. “I think that Hong Kong is a bridge connecting mainland China with Western countries well. The infrastructure is outstanding to conduct biomedical research here and HKU attracts top students from Hong Kong, mainland China, and surrounding southeastern countries. I am convinced that it is a great opportunity for me not only to do great science, but also to expand my horizons and venture into translational medicine.” |
Jason WOODARD — Professor and Co-Director, School of Innovation In August, following a year as visiting professor at Shenzhen InnoX Academy, Woodard joined the university to help launch a brand new I-School at HKU which just enrolled its first batch of students this fall. “It’s an amazing opportunity to be part of a bold educational experiment and contribute to developing Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem. The I-School was partly inspired by Olin College of Engineering, where I’ve been a faculty member for the past decade, so I feel I have a lot to contribute and a lot to learn, since Hong Kong is a very different environment than the suburbs of Boston.” |
Clara KIM — Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology An educational and developmental psychologist who joined HKU from Sungkyul University and received her academic training in South Korea and the United States, Kim explores civic and social emotional engagement, and sustainable well-being for youth around the world. “I have been deeply impressed by students here. They are genuinely curious, often asking creative, insightful questions that surprise and delight me. In one of my recent guest lectures, students continued to share ideas, questions, and real-life examples even during the break — an incredible reminder of their passion for learning and enthusiasm for exploration.” |
Željko PEDIŠIĆ — Associate Professor, School of Public Health Having been at the forefront of a major paradigm change in physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep research, resulting in the development of time-use epidemiology as a new research field, Pedišić brings his methodological expertise gained in Croatia, Austria, and Australia to the School of Public Health. “I joined HKU because I wanted to improve my research capacity by working with a world-leading team of public health researchers. If you wish to work at a highly respected university with top-notch students, staff, and facilities, while having access to a generous start-up package, various internal funding schemes, and a range of excellent support services, HKU is the right place for you.” |
