Physics Graduate Shares Inspiring Cambridge Journey as Scholarship Recipient

Stepping into the University of Cambridge, City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) Physics graduate Luo Zhihao eagerly anticipated the next chapter of his academic journey. As one of the inaugural cohort of 12 students to receive a scholarship from CityUHK to pursue their master’s degrees at Cambridge, he is undertaking a Research Master’s degree in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy at Cambridge. He is serving his fellow students as Vice-President of the Postgraduate Student Union of Lucy Cavendish College (LCC). This experience has been extremely fulfilling and has strengthened his confidence in achieving his future aspirations.

Looking back on his journey so far, Zhihao shared, “These past few months have taught me so much about conducting research across cultures and managing my time, and bringing together leadership with sustainability in meaningful ways. Very importantly, the opportunity to serve student communities has deepened my commitment to supporting peers, especially from less privileged or underrepresented backgrounds. It’s all been incredibly rewarding for my personal growth.”

When Zhihao reflected on his foundation at CityUHK, he spoke with deep gratitude about how the university shaped him for Cambridge and beyond. The academic environment did not just teach him physics but also awakened in him a passion for critical thinking and the rigour of research. He was especially grateful to Professor Zhang Ruiqin, Chair Professor of the Department of Physics and the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, and Professor Ren Yang, Head and Chair Professor of the Department of Physics, who nurtured his curiosity and believed in his potential.

The CityUHK–Lucy Cavendish College Scholarship programme, which commenced in the 2025/26 academic year, supports up to 20 students annually to pursue master’s degrees at Cambridge.

Zhihao (front row, fourth from left) with Professor Chhowalla (back row, fifth from right) and their research group at the Christmas lunch.