BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize Health for Life Award

Prof. ZHENG Yongping, Director of the Research Institute for Smart Ageing (RISA), has been awarded the inaugural BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize in the field of “Life and Health” with HKD 2 million cash prize.

Prof. Zheng has obtained more than 50 patents and was ranked among the world’s top 2% most-cited scientists in rankings compiled by Stanford University in 2021 and 2022. His main research area includes biomedical ultrasound instrumentation, soft tissue elasticity measurement and imaging, 3D ultrasound imaging and smart aging technologies.

The research team led by Prof. Zheng has developed a 3D ultrasound imaging system, “Scolioscan”, which can bring accurate, safe and cost-efficient radiation-free scoliosis assessment.

The invention has been applied to clinical assessment in many countries to facilitate early diagnosis and early treatment of scoliosis, and to control the condition using non-surgical intervention. This invention can also be used for the evaluation of ageing spine, including degenerative scoliosis.