e-Bulletin July 2026
EVENT SNIPPETS |
NIDO2026
A Historic First for Asia as Hong Kong Hosts Global Nidovirus Symposium
The XVII International Nidovirus Symposium (NIDO2026) has officially concluded, bringing the world’s foremost nidovirus researchers to Hong Kong for the first time in the conference’s history. Organised by our School and co-organised by the University of Tokyo, the four-day symposium was hosted at the Grand Hall of the Lee Shau Kee Lecture Centre, HKU Centennial Campus, from June 24-27, 2026.
This triennial flagship conference, which has long been a cornerstone event for exploring all facets of nidoviruses — including significant pathogens such as SARS‑CoV‑2, zoonotic SARS and MERS coronaviruses, common cold viruses, and impactful livestock viruses — made its historic debut in Asia at HKU.
The symposium opened with inspiring remarks from the NIDO2026 Co-Chairpersons, Professor Leo Poon from our School and Professor Kei Sato from the University of Tokyo. They were joined by Professor Hui-Ling Yen, Interim Director and Professor of our School, whose words set the stage for four days of intensive scientific exploration and exchange.
A key highlight of the programme was a panel discussion on “Global Perspectives on Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness”, led by Professor Leo Poon. The session featured insights from Dr Frank Konings, Programme Director of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Global Health Institute (HKJCGHI) from the International Vaccine Institute (IVI), who shared the institute’s global vision. Additionally, Professor Ravindra Gupta, HKJCGHI Co-Director from the University of Cambridge, offered an expert analysis on SARS‑CoV‑2 evolution. Together, their insights powerfully illustrated how cutting‑edge scientific research translates into real‑world impact and policy.
With over 220 researchers coming together over four days to share their latest findings, the collective expertise on display fuelled significant scientific advancement. The spirit of collaboration across the global research community was truly remarkable.
