The Hongkong Prize is awarded to outstanding scholars, scientists and researchers from around the world whose research has significant societal impact, contributing to human development and the prosperity of society. The HK Prize is a merit-based award sponsored by Bank of Hong Kong and administered by an independent Review Committee and Compliance Oversight Team. It was founded to attract and recognize world-class scientific talent in Hong Kong and support forward thinking scientists to form a dynamic research hub.

The prize is worth a total of HK$25,000 and an engraved gold medallion. Applicants are required to submit a published full article and a blinded abstract (no more than 500 words) online via this link or by scanning the QR code below. Submissions must be original articles (including, but not limited to, prospective or retrospective clinical studies, observational studies, epidemiological studies, basic science studies, meta-analysis) and should not have been published in any other journal. The selection process will take into account the impact and significance of the study, as well as its innovative nature. Trainees, review articles and letters to the editor are not eligible for the prize.

In judging the entries, the panel placed special emphasis on the following: relevance of the theme, systematic use of collected materials, objective analysis and appropriate citation of bibliography and footnotes. The written report should also contain a clear explanation of the methodology, results and conclusions of the investigation. A special Public Vote Prize was given to the entry with the most votes from the public.

The Prize was established in 1996 by friends and students of Professor John D. Young to commemorate his passion for Hong Kong history and his belief that an education must include a thorough knowledge of local history. It has since become a benchmark for excellence in undergraduate and postgraduate history studies, as well as an incentive to explore diverse historical aspects of Hong Kong. Its symbol, expressed both in the design of the award logo and the trophies conferred on winners, juxtaposes two precious elements – a pearl and a pierced jade amulet. In addition to cash prizes, the winners will receive invitations to present their work at world-class scientific conferences relevant to their research areas and access to Hong Kong’s top research facilities. The winners will also be featured in international peer-reviewed journals and may have the opportunity to collaborate with Hong Kong scientists.