HKU Professor Vivian Yam Wing-wah, Philip Wong Wilson Wong Professor in Chemistry and Energy, and Chair of Chemistry, was named Laureate of the 13th L’Oréal-UNESCO Women in Science Awards 2011 for her contributions in light-emitting materials and innovative ways of capturing solar energy.

Each year, five outstanding women scientists – one per continent – are honoured for their research contributions, the strength of their commitment and their impact on society. Professor Yam is the laureate of the Asia/ Pacific region. The awards ceremony will take place in March 2011 at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

Professor Yam felt deeply privileged and greatly honoured to receive the award.

“It shows that Hong Kong has strength and talent in scientific research and development,” said Professor Yam, adding that she herself is a typical Hong Kong educated scientist.

She was thankful to the community and donors like Dr Philip Wong and Dr Wilson Wong, and HKU and the government for their wide support given to scientific research. She urged young scientists to follow their interests, and demonstrate passion and commitment in their professions.

“I firmly believe that regardless of one’s gender, as long as one has the passion, dedication and determination to pursue research wholeheartedly, one can excel and produce results of world-class quality.”

HKU Vice-Chancellor Professor Lap-Chee Tsui was delighted that Professor Yam won the award, which he said was well-deserved recognition for her tremendous contributions to academia and research.

Professor Yam’s main area of research is in inorganic/organometallic syntheses and photochemistry related to luminescence and solar energy conversion. Professor Yam’s seminal works on luminescent polynuclear metal complexes and clusters, and light-emitting carbon-rich organometallics have gained her international recognition.