Twelve distinguished scholars from HKU have been named among the top 100 global researchers in their fields by the international academic platform Research.com in its 2025 rankings. This accolade underscores the individual brilliance of these academics, whose pioneering research is not only shaping the future of their disciplines but also contributing to the greater good of society.
Among them, five professors stand out as leaders in Asia, each ranked first in the region in their respective disciplines. They are Professor Guochun Zhao in earth science, Professor Alec Stone Sweet in law, Professor Yuen Kwok-Yung in microbiology, Professor Tak Mak in molecular biology, and HKU President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Xiang Zhang in physics.
The rankings are determined by a scientist’s D-index (Discipline H-index), which solely considers publication and citation data within a specific discipline. This recognition reflects the exceptional calibre of HKU’s faculty. With a strong foundation in research, the University is poised to maintain its status as a leader in academia, inspiring future generations of scholars and researchers. HKU’s relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge also continue to elevate Hong Kong and the nation on the global stage.
The 12 HKU professors listed among the top 100 global researchers in their respective disciplines are:
Chemistry
Professor Chi-ming Che (79th globally, 12th in China)
Earth Science
Professor Min Sun (20th globally, 5th in China)
Professor Guochun Zhao (6th globally, 1st in Asia)
Engineering and Technology
Professor Chuyang Tang (52nd globally, 9th in China)
Environmental Sciences
Professor Peng Gong (65th globally, 4th in China)
Law
Professor Alec Stone Sweet (72nd globally, 1st in Asia)
Materials Science
Professor Hongjie Dai (17th globally, 9th in US and equivalent of 5th in China)
Microbiology
Professor Chan Kwok-Hung (92nd globally, 2nd in China)
Professor Yuen Kwok-Yung (7th globally, 1st in Asia)
Molecular Biology
Professor Tak Mak (9th globally, 1st in Canada and equivalent of 1st in Asia)
Physics
Professor Xiang Zhang (48th globally, 1st in Asia)
Social Sciences and Humanities
Professor Paul Yip Siu-fai (49th globally, 1st in China)
