Bulletin No. 1, 2023

you a lot of time. We hope this platform will allow every one of us to benefit from collective wisdom.” An entrepreneurial turn Turning from the ivory tower to entrepreneurship, the two professors leading CNRM realise there is much to learn. “From the early days of incubation to now, I have learnt a lot. Research translation is not as simple as it sounds. We have spent a lot of time negotiating patents, collaboration agreements and intellectual property. “Patents are important. We didn’t realise that in the past, and many research outcomes remained unpatented. Indeed, everything, however infinitesimal, should be patented. Only then can the intellectual property of the University and, indeed, Hong Kong be protected,” says Professor Yung. Professor Chan has also had a change of mindset. “I used to focus on doing research and getting funding, but now, from day zero, I think: is it possible to get the research off ground, apply for patents or open start-ups? Such thoughts never ever crossed my mind before.” Professor Chan looks at a crystal-clear tissue chip those body parts. “Besides devising structures and technologies for the team’s use, we earnestly hope to pass them forward and benefit other scientists. These technologies may not be worthy of translation or large- scale production, but it would be marvellous if more scientists can use them,” says Professor Chan. Cooperation need not be a grand narrative; the ramifications of tiny, everyday collaboration can even be more lasting and far-reaching. Professor Chan gives an example: the nervous system is a huge research area. In CNRM, the researcher working on the peripheral nervous system can discuss research goals and processes with another research group working on the spinal cord, so both can consider their respective areas from a holistic point of view. The duo can come together with the engineer in charge of the enabling technology to form an awesome collaboration. “One plus one may not equal to two; it can be infinite. With these apt reminders from each other, the research undertaking can be brought up to next level.” Professor Yung adds: “As you present your findings, your peers might say they have adopted another method 10 years ago, so picking that up could save 14 Chinese University Bulletin No. 1, 2023