Outgoing CUHK head to focus on medical research, remain involved in academia

Rocky Tuan also cites navigating the Covid-19 pandemic as one of the most unforgettable experiences during his tenure

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Professor Rocky Tuan delivers a speech during the 94th congregation ceremony at the university in November of last year. Photo: Elson Li

Published: 5:21pm, 2 Jan 2025Updated: 7:11pm, 2 Jan 2025

The outgoing president of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has said he will focus on medical research and remain involved in academia after his tenure ends next week.

Professor Rocky Tuan Sung-chi also said that one of the most unforgettable experiences during his seven years at the helm of the university was the “unprecedented challenges” created by the Covid-19 pandemic, according to remarks published in a university newsletter on Thursday.

He will step down as president and vice-chancellor on January 7, and leading molecular geneticist Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming will take over, serving a five-year term.

Tuan announced his resignation last January, just days after his new three-year term began, following an overhaul of the institution’s governing body.

In an article published by CUHK on Thursday, Tuan noted that during his tenure, he had also served as the professor of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, taken part in research work and supervised six PhD students.

“After stepping down, I plan to continue these activities to stay updated on the latest developments in academia. I will also take an academic sabbatical to visit overseas institutions [and] explore new projects and ideas,” Tuan said when asked about his plans.