The Biotechnology Research Institute (BRI) is an interdisciplinary platform that drives the development of innovative, high value-added biotechnology products through evidence-based research. Founded in 1990, BRI is the first institute in Hong Kong that possesses an integrated drug discovery capability and utilizes traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in novel drug screening strategies. BRI cultivates close ties with other academic institutions as well as the biopharmaceutical industry in joint endeavors to make real societal impact.
Key Research Areas
Key Research Projects
PROJECT | PI |
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Cellular Mechanisms of Synaptic Functions and Plasticity in Health and Neurodegenerative Diseases | Prof Nancy Ip |
Optimizing the Combinatorial Use of the Active Chemical Components in a TCM Formula Using a Novel Computational Approach for Neuroprotection and Stroke Treatment | Dr Fanny C F Ip |
Re-engineering Traditional Chinese Herbal Formulas for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease | Prof Yung Hou Wong |
Stem Cell Strategy for Nervous System Disorders | Prof Nancy Ip |
Development of Novel Subtype-specific Agonists for Melatonin Receptors | Prof Yung Hou Wong |
Modernization of Chinese Medicine: from Clinical Efficacy to Drug Production - Two Innovative Formulae for Comprehensive Research | Prof Nancy Ip |
Development of Next-generation Anti-inflammatory and Anti-tussive Herbal Products | Prof Yung Hou Wong |
Education
BRI is dedicated to educating and training the next generation of biotechnologists. The Institute has an active role in the University’s biotechnology-related academic programs: the BSc in Biotechnology and Business (BIBU) and the MSc in Biotechnology (BTEC). For BIBU, BRI supports this initiative through the provision of research and internship opportunities to students in the program. For the MSc Program, BRI is responsible for a laboratory course (BTEC 5360), which provides hands-on experience of the laboratory techniques required in the drug discovery and development process of the biotechnology industry. Besides, BRI also collaborates with biotech companies to offer project and internship opportunities to the MSc students. Regular career talks for students at HKUST as well as outreach to secondary schools for recruitment are also organized by BRI to support young talent. In addition to the activities at HKUST, BRI also provides support to local secondary schools to foster secondary school students’ interests in biotechnology.
Executive Committee
Advisory Committee
Members of the Management Committee |
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Chair Professor, Division of Life Science |
Vice-President for Institutional Advancement |
Director, Biotechnology Research Institute |
Associate Director, Biotechnology Research Institute |