Life finds a way – but exactly how long does it take? Until recently, scientists had little clue why vegetation can take anywhere from a few years to a century to recover after thaw slumps – greenery-destroying landslides triggered when climate change thaws permafrost. Thanks to a new CUHK study, however, recovery time can now be predicted with striking accuracy.
A CUHK study has identified early-life links between the epigenome, gut microbiome and neurodevelopment. By following children from birth, the research team found that patterns in DNA methylation and gut microbial development were associated with later autism and ADHD-related scores, highlighting a possible route for early-life risk assessment and intervention.
Waste management and energy security are two of the world’s most pressing challenges, particularly in metropolis like Hong Kong. CUHK researchers address both by converting biodegradable waste directly into green fuel – without inefficient high-temperature gasification or combustion. This innovation promises cleaner energy production while helping industries meet increasingly stringent environmental standards.
This spring, CUHK has seen its researchers and leadership receive major international recognition, reflecting strengths across biomedical science, plant biology, geography, and translational research. Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming, Vice-Chancellor and President, and Professor Jiang Liwen, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (External Affairs), have each garnered top international honours, affirming CUHK’s global academic leadership. Alongside these accolades, the University has achieved remarkable success in organising international education event and scientific research innovation, further consolidating its standing as a world-leading research university and Hong Kong’s international post-secondary education hub.
