Appreciation Notes
Matteo CASSANELLO (Italy)
MPhil in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Dual Degree Program between HKUST and Politecnico di Milano
“It has been an amazing experience and a great opportunity for me to broaden my horizons and grow both professionally and as a person. In particular, I think that the possibility to challenge myself in a multicultural, multi-ethnic and multidisciplinary environment has had great benefits in that I started looking at things from a different perspective, embracing new points of view and ultimately becoming a more all-round person.”
Dr Ken CHEUNG Wai-Ting (Hong Kong)
PhD in Computer Science and Engineering
Dual Degree Program between HKUST and Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
“Studying in a foreign environment changes your life. You have the opportunities to work with leading researchers in the world. These opportunities help you gain practical experiences with experts in different fields. Besides professional development, you may enjoy the cultural differences. This dual-degree program is a rare opportunity that you do not want to miss.”
Dr Jose Vinicius DE MIRANDA CARDOSO (Brazil)
PhD in Electronic and Computer Engineering
“My research journey at HKUST was an immensely enriching experience, both intellectually and personally. HKUST provided me with a top-tier research environment characterized by qualities such as integrity, respect, and intellectual curiosity. Thanks to this environment, I was able to develop and elevate my research ideas to a whole new level!”
Dr Sheena Anne Henson GARCIA (Philippines)
PhD in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
“HKUST provided me with opportunities to collaborate with talented researchers both within and outside the university. It empowered me and helped me grow as a female academic leader in STEM. I was fortunate to participate in international workshops such as the Rising Stars Women in Engineering Workshop in Sydney, Australia, and the Ewha Luce International Seminar in South Korea. Additionally, I presented at the American Chemical Society Fall 2023 Conference in San Francisco, California, USA, where I received the Best Poster Presentation award.”
Dr Neel Kanth KUNDU (India)
PhD in Electronic and Computer Engineering
“Completing my PhD at HKUST was pivotal in shaping my career trajectory. The rigorous academic environment, supportive faculty, and cutting-edge research facilities at HKUST laid a strong foundation. The invaluable technical skills and knowledge gained during my time at HKUST helped me secure a postdoctoral position at the University of Melbourne and eventually a faculty position at my undergraduate alma mater, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, after graduation. I am immensely grateful for the transformative experience at HKUST that helped me achieve my dream academic job, and I look forward to contributing to research and teaching.”
Dr Yugo SATO (Japan)
PhD in Environmental Engineering
“No part of my academic journey at HKUST was linear or predictable; it provided a dynamic environment that advanced my career as an engineer and fostered my commitment to lifelong learning. I was fortunate to learn from and work with my supervisor and the engineering team, all of whom possess extensive knowledge in research, engineering, and business. Together, we tackled numerous scientific and technical challenges, which helped propel my ideas into tangible technology.”
Dr Kumar SIDDHARTH (India)
PhD in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
"My research journey in HKUST comprises infinite learnings and memories. It provided me with ideal platforms and infrastructure to enhance my research credentials for contributing towards science. Publishing papers, presenting my work in top international conferences, IDEA League summer school in ETH Zurich, being Teaching Assistant Coordinator, Hall Tutor, winning competitions like HKUST Three Minute Thesis (3MT) as well as representing HKUST in Asia-Pacific 3MT in Australia and Hult Prize London regionals are some key highlights of my journey."
Dr Hadi TAVAKKOLI (Iran)
PhD in Mechanical Engineering
“I began my PhD at HKUST in 2019. The state-of-the-art and meticulously maintained lab facilities played a pivotal role in realizing my academic ambitions. I frequently explored Hong Kong’s stunning hiking trails, which provided a much-needed escape from the rigors of research. Interacting with diverse and friendly groupmates from various cultural backgrounds brought me immense joy. Overall, my experience at HKUST was a profound and diverse journey, marked by intellectual growth and peaceful moments amidst the beauty of Hong Kong.”
Dr Keat Ping YEOH (Malaysia)
PhD in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
“My academic journey at HKUST has been filled with opportunities to expand my horizons. I presented my work at several international conferences, published my research findings in reputable journals, and successfully filed two patents. These achievements were made possible with the support and encouragement of my thesis supervisors, as well as the faculty and staff of my home department. I also made lifelong friends and created many fond memories. My experience at HKUST will be forever cherished.”
Dr YIN Ran (Mainland China)
PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering
HKUST Engineering PhD Research Excellence Award
Research Grants Council Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme
“I am so proud of being an alumnus and now a research staff at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in the HKUST School of Engineering. I am deeply grateful for my supervisor’s guidance, the valuable training and exchange opportunities, as well as technical and funding support from the University during my PhD studies. The HKUST journey turns out to be the most unforgettable experience in my life to date. I firmly believe what I have learned here would benefit me for a lifetime.”
Dr YU Xianghao (Mainland China)
PhD in Electronic and Computer Engineering
HKUST Engineering PhD Research Excellence Award
“It was my great honor to spend my PhD study at HKUST, where I have seen the most professional research environments, supportive research teams, and splendid campus scenery. In particular, I had been very lucky to have my supervisors and advisors not only providing guidance for my research without reservation, but also giving me freedom to achieve a work-life balance. I would never forget the days spent in the academic building, the beautiful sea view seen from the library, as well as the time spent together with my friends in Hong Kong.”
Dr ZHU Shangqian (Mainland China)
PhD in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
HKUST Engineering PhD Research Excellence Award
Research Grants Council Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme
“It was one of my most precious memories to pursue MPhil and PhD studies at the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering in the HKUST School of Engineering, where I learned how to conduct cutting-edge, exciting and rigorous research. The unreserved support from my supervisor, vibrant research environment, convenient university central research facilities, professional technical teams, and generous scholarship help me achieve a fruitful and enjoyable post-graduate study. The core values of HKUST will always guide my life in the future.”
Mehdi ZOUAGUI (Morocco)
MPhil in Mechanical Engineering
Dual Degree Program between HKUST and CentraleSupélec
"The CentraleSupélec / HKUST dual-degree program illustrates the complementarity between both institutions and is more than beneficial to my academic training and future professional life as an engineer. It was the natural extension of my CentraleSupélec curriculum!"