Hong Kong, 11 May 2023 – Genomic medicine has attracted much attention around the world in recent years. Countries like Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States have rolled out genome projects of various scales to drive the integration of genomics into clinical care with the aim to provide healthcare services in a more precise manner. This will bring to patients and the wider community more accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, as well as more effective disease control and prevention.
To harness the vast potential of genomic medicine in precise diagnoses, personalised treatment and surveillance of diseases, the Hong Kong Genome Institute (HKGI) and the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (HKAM) join hands to set up for the first time a scheme to support research in Genomic Medicine – “HKAM-HKGI Research Excellence Grants in Genomic Medicine” (Grants). The Grants aims to encourage and inspire research in genetics and genomics, and to fuel the talent pool for Hong Kong.
Dr Lo Su-vui, Chief Executive Officer of HKGI, said, “Genomic medicine is at the frontier of science. It is where the future of medicine lies. With the tremendous support from the Hong Kong SAR Government, HKGI is charged with the mission to avail genomic medicine to all by driving clinical application, advancing research, nurturing talent and enhancing genomic literacy. We are much excited to partner with HKAM to advance the development of genomic medicine in the city. For years, there has been a lack of genomic data of the Chinese populations in the scientific and medical community around the globe. We are hopeful that this Grants, and the prestigious recognition that comes along, will attract more young clinicians to take part in relevant research. This will not only contribute to the diversity of human genomic data at an international level, but also inspire exciting breakthroughs in technology and clinical applications for the greater good.”
Professor Gilberto Leung, President of HKAM, said “Over the years, the Academy has been fostering the development of genetics and genomics through specialist training, including the creation of interdisciplinary training courses on genetics and genomics for different specialties, such as paediatrics, pathology and internal medicine. The Task Force on Genetics and Genomics as set up by the Academy’s Professionalism and Ethics Committee also published the Best Practice Guidelines on Genetic and Genomic Medicine in 2021 with a view to providing timely advice and support to fellows amid rapid advancements in the field. We are much grateful for HKGI’s support and by working closely together, I am confident that this Grants will not only serve as an honour recognising the awardees’ research efforts, but also provide a valuable opportunity for them to further their professional development and broaden their horizons.”
The applications of the Grants will be evaluated by a Vetting Panel formed by HKGI and HKAM basing on such criteria as originality, scientific values and feasibility of the research proposals. Each awardee will be offered a maximum of HK$250,000, together with invaluable research support from HKGI and HKAM, including knowledge sharing, networking opportunities and access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.
Application details will be uploaded to the website of HKGI (www.hkgp.org) and HKAM (www.hkam.org.hk) on 15 May 2023. The schedule for submitting applications is listed below:
| Details | Schedule |
| Open for Application | 15 May – 17 July 2023 |
| Deadline for Submission | 17 July 2023 |
| Assessment | August – October 2023 |
| Result Announcement | November 2023 |
| Enquiries | (852) 2871 8888; HKAM-HKGI-Grant@hkam.org.hk |
Apart from this partnership, HKGI is in close collaboration with professional bodies and universities to roll out a series of scholarship and training grants to build a pipeline of talents for developing genomic medicine in Hong Kong. These include The Hong Kong College of Physicians, and the medical schools of The University of Hong Kong and The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
HKAM will also continue to support the development of genomic medicine through its Task Force on Genetics and Genomics, providing specialist training and professional guidance in genetic and genomic medicine, as well as promoting the wider application of relevant technologies to aid clinical diagnosis, treatments and decision-making.
(Photo 1) HKGI and HKAM join hands to set up for the first time a scheme to support research in Genomic Medicine – “HKAM-HKGI Research Excellence Grants in Genomic Medicine” (Grants). The Grants aims to inspire research in genetics and genomics, and to fuel the talent pool for Hong Kong.
(Photo 2) From left: Dr Lo Su-vui, Chief Executive Officer of HKGI, Professor Raymond Liang, Deputy Chairperson of HKGI, Mr Philip Tsai, Chairperson of HKGI, Professor Gilberto Leung, President of HKAM, Professor Philip Li, Vice-President (Education and Examinations) of HKAM, Dr Leung Wing-cheong, Honorary Secretary of HKAM