On Monday, January 12, 2026, the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings co-hosted "The Nobel Heroes Forum: Shaping Science and Future" in Hong Kong. This special event brought together six Nobel laureates to discuss how fundamental research is the engine behind today's breakthroughs in science, technology, health and even the global economy. 🔬🌐
The forum featured lively panel discussions exploring how discoveries at the atomic and molecular levels have unlocked new possibilities in physics and chemistry. Speakers also examined universal principles governing complex systems, from biology to finance, showing that basic science truly spans all fields. 💡
HKU President Zhang Xiang opened the forum by saying, "Through the insights of six Nobel laureates, we hope we can learn how to advance fundamental science, translate discoveries into practical applications, and benefit humanity."
Nikolaus Turner, executive director of the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings, noted that 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of Lindau's gatherings. He said, "We hope to attract even more talent from Hong Kong while building partnerships to sustain the unique intergenerational exchanges between young researchers and Nobel laureates."
2023 Nobel Prize in Physics laureate Ferenc Krausz praised Hong Kong's research environment for fostering global cooperation. Meanwhile, 2010 Nobel Prize in Physics laureate Konstantin Novoselov encouraged everyone to embrace the joy of problem-solving and breaking boundaries. Kurt Wuthrich, who won the 2002 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, reminded young scientists to trust their own judgment and view failure as part of the journey.
Since its start in 1951 as a post-war reconciliation initiative, the Lindau Meetings have grown from a forum for physics, chemistry and physiology to include economics in 2004. Today, the meetings remain a vibrant platform for academic exchange and a source of inspiration for future generations of researchers. 🚀
As the forum wrapped up, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose: fundamental research isn't just about theory—it's the first step toward transforming ideas into innovations that shape our world. ✨
Reference(s):
Nobel laureates forum underscores significance of fundamental research
cgtn.com
