Prof Karl Tsim graduated from The Chinese University of Hong Kong where he received his BSc and MPhil degrees. He pursued his research in molecular neurobiology at the University of Cambridge, UK, and obtained his PhD in 1987. After his post-doctoral training at the University of Cambridge, UK, and Stanford University, USA, he joined The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) in 1992. Currently, he is a Chair Professor of Division of Life Science, and the Director of Center for Chinese Medicine R & D at the university.

Prof Tsim’s current research focus is on studying geographical authenticity of Chinese medicinal herbs and mechanisms of Chinese medicines compound formulae by molecular and genetic techniques. He has published over 350 scientific papers in various reputable national and international scientific journals and serves as editors for several international scientific journals. His works on Chinese herbal medicines have been awarded twice for Research Excellence in Natural Sciences from Ministry of Education of China. He also serves as an adviser/consultant/member to various organisations, both nationally and internationally, in the standardisation of Chinese medicines, including World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Traditional Medicine, and various advisory bodies relating to testing and certification of Chinese medicines of the HKSAR Government. He is also an active entrepreneur and is founding directors of several companies.