Discover HKBU
House of Scholars Fellow explores transdisciplinary frontiers in Chinese medicine and space medicine
31 Aug 2026
From exploring the universe to advancing Chinese medicine research, Heymans So Hei-wa, a graduating student in Bachelor of Chinese Medicine and Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Biomedical Science, is blending traditional Chinese medicine with modern biomedical science for translational application through a unique transdisciplinary perspective.
A passion for space research
Heymans’ enthusiasm for aerospace originated from his profound experience in 2018 when he participated in the “Young Astronaut Training Camp” organised by the Hong Kong Space Museum, visiting the Beijing Aerospace Town and the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre. Observing the comprehensive and strictly regulated life science support systems behind manned space missions up close left a lasting impression. Though he humorously remarks he was too tall to become an astronaut, his passion for space research never faded. Instead, it transformed into the driving force behind his scientific endeavours.
With the first payload expert from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region participating in a national spaceflight mission for the first time, this historic milestone greatly inspired Heymans. “It made me reflect on how the unique advantages of Chinese medicine could be applied in extreme space environments,” says Heymans. This aspiration is guiding him further towards the field of space medicine research.
Driving the translational application of Chinese medicine
“Studying Chinese medicine and biomedical science truly helped me build a transdisciplinary mindset to examine problems from different perspectives,” Heymans shares, acknowledging that the flexible curriculum granted him a distinct advantage. Regarding the challenges that astronauts face in space environments such as weightlessness, circadian rhythm disruption, and bone loss, he believes this is precisely a key domain where the Chinese medicine philosophy of preventive treatment can play a crucial role.
The strong foundation of HKBU’s School of Chinese Medicine (SCM) in space life sciences has also provided him with valuable inspiration. As early as 2017, the SCM research team participated in the research of China’s first cargo spacecraft, Tianzhou-1, studying the impact that microgravity has on the proliferation and differentiation of cells. Heymans is determined to carry forward this research spirit, participating in the development of more medicines and treatments that can safeguard the health of astronauts as well as the public, turning laboratory discoveries into societal value through knowledge transfer.
Serving society through knowledge
Heymans’ growth at HKBU extends beyond classrooms and laboratories. As a Fellow of the House of Scholars, he took the initiative as early as his first year to assist SCM in establishing its social media platform, creating engaging content to translate professional medical concepts for the public.
Active in community engagement, he was selected as a Youth Development Commission Youth Ambassador in 2022 and has served as a committee member of the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau’s Youth Link since 2024. Under the Bureau’s guidance, he actively organises youth empowerment initiatives for this network of over 27,000 members. It is worth noting that he was bestowed the honour of serving as a torchbearer for the 15th National Games in Hong Kong, demonstrating youth leadership.
Journey of value creation
Heymans will continue his studies at HKBU in the new academic year to pursue his PhD and deepen his research in translational medicine. “Our generation of young Chinese medicine practitioners are well-trained in medical research. Many possess the capability and resolve to contribute to this field. I am confident that we can further help Chinese medicine go global,” he says confidently.
