History

Biotechnology is widely regarded as one of the defining technologies of the 21st century, driven by major advances in molecular biology and related disciplines during the latter half of the 20th century. Recognizing its immense potential and broad applications in health, food, and the environment, the Departments of Biochemistry and Biology at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) jointly established the undergraduate Molecular Biotechnology (MBT) Programme in 1998. The programme was designed to provide a solid foundation in life sciences while introducing students to diverse biotechnology fields, including microbial, plant, animal, healthcare, and environmental biotechnology, alongside genetic engineering, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Students also gain hands-on experience in molecular techniques and develop an understanding of the business and societal dimensions of biotechnology, such as policy, management, intellectual property, and ethics.

In 2001, CUHK further expanded its commitment to biotechnology education by launching postgraduate programmes leading to the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in Molecular Biotechnology. Following the establishment of the School of Life Sciences in 2010, the MBT Programme became part of an integrated life sciences community and continued to provide high-quality biotechnology education through a well-designed curriculum and personalized training opportunities. Over the years, the programme has attracted outstanding students, many of whom have pursued successful careers in Hong Kong, Mainland China, Macau and beyond, while others have continued their postgraduate studies at leading universities around the world.