HKPFS Awardee
Breaking New Ground in Medical Science at CUHK
When it comes to pioneering medical research in Hong Kong postgraduate studies, few fields are as promising as liquid biopsy. For Yasine Malki, a PhD student in Chemical Pathology at CUHK, this cutting-edge area of study has become more than just research – it's a mission to transform disease monitoring and diagnosis through circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA). His exceptional work hasn't gone unnoticed, earning him a trifecta of prestigious awards: the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS), the Butterfield-Croucher Studentship, and the Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fellowship.
Learning from Legends
The journey through CUHK graduate programmes has placed Yasine under the mentorship of Professor Dennis Lo, CUHK's Vice-Chancellor and a revolutionary figure in molecular diagnostics, pioneering technologies in non-invasive prenatal testing and cancer diagnosis. Having been profoundly inspired by Professor Lo’s story and ground-breaking work since being a secondary school student, this mentorship has shaped Yasine's approach to research in unexpected ways.
Yasine’s research approach was deeply shaped by the guidance of his supervisor, Professor Dennis Lo (centre)
“One of the most important things I have learnt from Professor Dennis Lo is to approach research from different perspectives” he explains. “Within the translational scope of research in our research group, it is essential to appreciate many aspects of each project. This includes the novelty of our findings to biology and science, the potential applications and patent value, how it may benefit patients and clinicians. Impactful and innovative research really comes from embracing this multifaceted mindset”
“Much of Professor Lo’s research has really paved the way for many researchers in the field of cell-free DNA, he always encourages us to be creative and think beyond what has already been achieved and discovered. His approach to science encourages us to ask bold questions and aim for a lasting impact”
Where Innovation Meets Implementation
The CUHK research opportunities at the Centre for Novostics embody the future of medical science. Here, in this melting pot of expertise, Yasine works alongside a diverse group of professors and researchers, specialising in molecular technologies, bioinformatics, computer science, and clinician-scientists.
“The way we approach research really requires a synergy between many different fields, and this multidisciplinary mindset really drives much of the innovation and creativity in our group,” he shares.
Yasine's research spans two distinct environments – Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks and The Prince of Wales Hospital. Each setting offers its own perspective.
“Working in the Prince of Wales hospital provides more perspective into healthcare and considering how your work can be translated to helping patients in need,” Yasine reflects, while “the work culture in Science Park has a much larger focus in Research & Development, and the future of science and technology.”
Turning Dreams into Reality Through Fellowship Support
For many aspiring researchers, limited resources and financial support can hinder academic ambitions. But for Yasine, the prestigious HKPFS and other scholarships opened doors to unlimited possibilities in Hong Kong postgraduate studies.
“The HKPFS stipend allows me to focus entirely on my research, and has provided an environment that truly fosters my academic and personal growth,” he reflects. “This support extended beyond basic funding, enabling participation in overseas conference, such as the Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting in Physiology or Medicine.”
Yasine with Nobel Laureate Sir John E. Walker at the 2023 Lindau Meeting
The CUHK student community benefits from robust institutional support for global engagement. “During my PhD studies, CUHK has played an integral role in facilitating my participation in international conferences, from emails and websites promoting international conference opportunities, departmental nominations for conference participations, and providing financial support,” Yasine explains.
His attendance at the 2023 Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting proved transformative: “This really was an invaluable experience and a key highlight of my PhD study, as I gained valuable life and career advice, and was deeply inspired by listening and speaking to the many Nobel laureates that attended”
Where Innovation Meets Excellence
The CUHK research opportunities extend far beyond typical laboratory facilities. “Our collaborating clinicians in various departments of CUHK’s Faculty of Medicine (CU Medicine) have always been extremely generous in providing samples and offering essential insights to our projects,” Yasine notes. This collaborative spirit, combined with the many distinguished professors at CUHK's renowned Faculty of Medicine, creates an environment where breakthrough research thrives.
Yasine with Nobel Laureate Professor Martin Chalfie at the 2023 Lindau Meeting
For Yasine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong postgraduate experience has been defined by inspiration and real-world impact. “Much of the research in CUHK Medicine has really revolutionised their respective field, and has really changed healthcare practices worldwide. Working here at CUHK with many role models to look up to is really quite an inspiring environment to study in,” he shares.
Managing research across two laboratories has taught valuable life skills. “Most of our projects are quite complex,” Yasine explains, describing the juggling act of clinical sample collection, clinician meetings, R&D, sequencing, and bioinformatics. “I really had to acquire skills of effective time management and task prioritisation during my PhD study, which I believe is extremely valuable in my future career.”
Charting a Course in Biomedical Innovation
The experience has done more than shape Yasine's research skills – it's crystallised his vision for the future. “As I aspire to pursue a career in academic research, hopefully as a professor, being exposed to the translational research and collaborative environment in CUHK has not only enhanced my research experience, but has provided a solid foundation for my career in biomedical research,” he reflects.
Yasine was awarded the Butterfield Croucher Scholarship in 2023 at an award ceremony
To those considering their own journey through CUHK graduate programmes, Yasine offers practical wisdom gained from experience: “First of all, I'd recommend they try to experience scientific research. They should contact professors whose work interests them and offer to help or shadow in the lab to get a feel for science in action.”
Looking back on his time in Hong Kong postgraduate studies, Yasine's appreciation runs deep: “I am grateful to CUHK for the wonderful few years during my PhD study, and hopefully to many more years in the future.” With groundbreaking research in liquid biopsy under his belt and the robust foundation of CUHK training supporting him, Yasine stands ready to push the boundaries of medical science even further.
