In email sent to university community, Zhang says he wishes to return to laboratory work after “defining honour” of leadership role at HKU
2-MIN READ2-MIN ListenAmbrose LiPublished: 10:20am, 27 Jul 2026Updated: 10:23am, 27 Jul 2026The University of Hong Kong’s (HKU) president and vice-chancellor Xiang Zhang has announced that he will be stepping down in 2028 after completing a second five-year term, according to an email seen by the South China Morning Post.In the email, sent to the university community in the early hours of Monday, Zhang described the past eight years spent working to elevate HKU’s academic standing as “a defining honour” of his life.
He also reflected on the university’s future in “a complicated, rapidly changing world marked by polarised views and conflicts”, saying the institution would have to meet the challenges brought about by artificial intelligence.
“I have realised that it is time for HKU to embrace fresh ideas and for a new leader to guide this great transformation,” Zhang said.
“I remain a scientist and a professor at heart. I yearn to return to my laboratory, to answer profound scientific questions, and to make a societal impact.
“Therefore, I am announcing my decision to retire from the presidency and vice-chancellorship after I complete my 10-year tenure in 2028.”
