Congratulations to Dr. Hogan Wai on Completing the HKU-KCL Joint PhD Programme

During his studies in the HKU-KCL Joint PhD program, Hogan conducted multidisciplinary and cross-cultural research at the HKU-Pasteur Research Pole (HKU-PRP) and the King’s College London Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions (KCL CHMI). His PhD was focused on deciphering the role of different Staphylococcus strains in atopic dermatitis (AD):

"It is well-known that the skin microbiome of AD patients is different from that of healthy individuals. There is a difference in the profile of Staphylococcus species found, but how the different strains within these species occur and function on the skin is unclear. To better understand these strains, I established a new pediatric cohort at HKU and proceeded to study the genotypic and phenotypic behavior of the Staphylococcus strains isolated from the skin of AD children. Through a series of investigations, I identified that the Staphylococcus strains coming from severe AD skin behaved differently from those coming from healthy skin."

To carry out his research, Hogan was guided by Professor Roberto Bruzzone (HKU-PRP) and Dr. David Moyes (KCL CHMI):

"The hours spent under the tutelage of my supervisors have been crucial in acquiring subject knowledge and critical thinking skills. Collaborators in the HKU Division of Dermatology have also been very generous to teach me the clinical knowledge needed to assess and recruit patients. At both HKU-PRP and KCL CHMI, I have been blessed to meet many people of diverse backgrounds that have provided many moments of laughter and joy. All of the above would not have possible without the funding received from the Bau Tsu Zung Bau Kwan Yeu Hing Research and Clinical Fellowship."

Moving forward, Hogan will continue his research journey at HKU-Pasteur as a Climate and Health Fellow, working closely with the Pasteur Network. He aims to apply the expertise and skills gained during his PhD to tackle complex interdisciplinary health challenges.