New Asia College The Chinese University of Hong Kong eNewsletter

This year, the College is privileged that Professor Yi RAO, Chair Professor of Peking University School of Life Sciences, has agreed to be guest speaker for the New Asia Lectures on Contemporary China 2013/14. Professor Rao has delivered two lectures entitled 'Genes and Behavior' and 'Chinese Science Goes Up or Plateaus?' during his visit in March and April 2014. The moderator of the two lectures was Professor YAO Xiaoqiang, School of Biomedical Sciences, CUHK.

Professor Rao is a famous biologist. His research interests include gene, cell, neuroscience and the molecular biology of social interactions. The first lecture' Gene and Behavior' was held at Sir Run Run Shaw Hall at CUHK on 21 March 2014. Professor Rao highlighted the biological basis of behaviors, molecular and cellular mechanisms. Using animal models which simulate certain emotional and behavioral symptoms, the findings will help to advance our understanding of basic behaviors and social functioning.

The second lecture 'Chinese Science Goes Up or Plateaus?' was organized at the Lecture Hall of Hong Kong Science Museum on 12 April 2014. Professor Rao shared his insights on the development of sciences in Contemporary China. Professor Rao called for strategic plans to promote an innovation and technology culture in the region, and to support applied research, technology transfer and application. It is also vital to foster young talents to contribute to technological advancement.