2017-09-25

HKBU Chemistry team wins 2017 Science and Technology Award Third-class prize of China Association for Instrumental Analysis
Dr Edmond Ma, Associate Professor of the Department of Chemistry of
HKBU, and his research team won the 2017 Third-class Science and
Technology Award of China Association for Instrumental Analysis (CAIA
award), for their exceptional research project entitled “Phosphorescence
label-free G-quadruplex-based sensing platform for detecting analytes
in environmental and biological systems”. Dr Ma is the first Hong
Kong-born scholar to receive the CAIA award as the project principal
manager since it was established 25 years ago.
For the project, the team developed a rapid, label-free and universal
oligonucleotide-based luminescence detection method for metal ions,
small molecules, proteins and enzyme activities in environmental or
biological samples using transition metal complexes. Dr Ma said, “The
successful development of this methodology could be highly useful for
academic researchers around the world working in the field of analytical
and instrumental chemistry. The discovery could lead to the development
of a platform for the detection and monitoring of environmental or
water contamination.”
Dr Ma is one of the few experienced researchers in Hong Kong who
possesses skills from a unique combination of areas—luminescent
bio-sensing, transition metal complex synthesis, as well as
computer-aided structural design and screening. This unique meld of
interdisciplinary fields is a niche research area in Hong Kong and Dr
Ma’s team has made significant inroads into this research focus area.
The CAIA award cements the reputation of the research group, further
establishing them as a leader in these research fields.
The study was conducted in collaboration with Professor Leung
Chung-hang, Professor of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences of
the University of Macau.
The CAIA award, registered and authorised under China’s National Office
for Science and Technology Award, recognises scientists and
organisations for their significant achievements and contributions to
the development of new technologies, methods and applications in the
area of instrumental analysis.
from HKBU eNews
https://bunews.hkbu.edu.hk/news/people/chemistry-team-wins-2017-science-and-technology-award-third-class-prize-of-china-association-for-instrumental-analysis