University climbs 14 places, strengthening its position in global research, innovation and academic excellence
HONG KONG SAR, 13 July 2026 – The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has achieved a historic milestone by entering the global top 20 in the QS World University Rankings 2027, rising 14 places to secure the 18th position worldwide.
The latest ranking reflects CUHK’s continued advancement across key performance indicators, including employer reputation, international research network, and international student ratio. The university also maintained a perfect score in international faculty ratio, highlighting its strong global outlook and academic diversity.
CUHK Strengthens Global Academic Reputation and Research Impact
CUHK’s academic excellence has also been recognised in the 2026–27 Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report, where the university was ranked 28th globally and 5th in Asia, maintaining its position as Hong Kong’s leading university for the fourth consecutive year.
The university achieved outstanding global recognition across various disciplines, with 15 subjects ranked among the world’s top 50, including five disciplines placed within the global top 10.
Among the highest-ranked fields were:
Education and Educational Research – No. 1 globally
Gastroenterology and Hepatology – No. 2 globally
Computer Science – No. 7 globally
Arts and Humanities – No. 9 globally
Artificial Intelligence – No. 9 globally
Where Bold Ideas Drive Transformative Research
CUHK continues to provide a world-class environment for research and innovation, supported by nearly 300 research institutes and centres, as well as four state key laboratories approved by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China.
The university’s research ecosystem provides students with opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary projects and collaborate with leading global institutions.
Among them is Zhamilya Zhirenova, a PhD student in Biomedical Science from Kazakhstan, who has expanded her research expertise through the Centre for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine (CNRM), an InnoHK research centre established by CUHK in collaboration with Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet.
Unlike conventional research environments that typically focus on a single university laboratory, Zhamilya gained exposure at Hong Kong Science Park, where she experienced a research setting closely connected to industry.
“It feels more like an industrial company, and that experience has been invaluable,” she said.
Such exposure allows researchers to better understand real-world applications and prepares them for future careers beyond academia, particularly in fast-growing sectors such as biotechnology.
Developing the Next Generation of Scientific Leaders
CUHK’s research strength is driven by internationally recognised scholars who continue to make breakthroughs across multiple disciplines. Their expertise and mentorship play a key role in cultivating an innovative academic environment.
At the Centre for Novostics, an InnoHK research centre focused on molecular diagnostics, Chemical Pathology PhD student Yasine Malki highlighted the importance of mentorship during his academic journey.
Working under the guidance of Professor Dennis Lo, CUHK’s Vice-Chancellor and President and a pioneer in molecular diagnostics, Yasine collaborates with experts from molecular technology, bioinformatics and clinical science fields.
This multidisciplinary approach reflects CUHK’s commitment to advancing medical research through collaboration across different scientific areas.
Attracting Global Talent Through Research Opportunities
Through its latest global rankings achievements, CUHK continues to demonstrate the strength and international impact of its research and academic programmes.
The university also provides substantial financial support to attract outstanding researchers worldwide, including the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) for the 2027–28 intake.
The prestigious fellowship provides more than HK$1.81 million (approximately US$232,420) in funding to support outstanding doctoral candidates.
Applications for the 2027–28 intake will open on 1 September 2026.
With its rising global standing, expanding research capabilities and commitment to innovation, CUHK continues to strengthen its role as one of Asia’s leading universities and a major contributor to global knowledge advancement.
