IYNA HK x HATCH HK

Prof. Sandra Chan is a Professor at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Department of Psychiatry, and Assistant Dean at CUHK Medicine. She is also the director of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Centre (ADCA).

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Prof. Chan is a leading researcher in clinical neuroscience, adolescent mental health, and psychiatric disorders, and her work spans mood disorders, suicide prevention, digital mental health, neurodevelopmental disorders, and innovative treatments such as brain stimulation and neuroimaging-based prediction. 

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On August 17, 2026 our members had the privilege of hearing from Prof. Sandra Chan, who presented an informative talk about her work in this specialised field of psychiatry. She also shared her own personal experiences and a variety of stories of being a clinical psychiatrist.

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Professor Chan guided the students to view patients from a psychiatrist's perspective, emphasising the importance of mentalisation, inclusivity, and empathetic listening. She highlighted how these qualities can offer patients renewed hope and the motivation to live on, demonstrating the very core of a psychiatrist's work. She explored the theoretical foundations of psychiatry and neuroscience, as well as their historical development, and elaborated on the intricate interconnections between our mind, brain, physiological functions, and society.

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During the lecture, students gained insight into the realities of working as a psychiatrist or researcher, understanding the roles of neuroimaging, neuromapping, neuromodulation, and related techniques. Through Professor Chan's sharing of her own research journey, such as the search for biomarkers for treatment-resistant depression and her participation in the government-funded "WORK HEART" Child and Adolescent Mental Health Research Programme at CUHK, students not only grasped the complexity and significance of scientific research but also learned how successful research projects are designed and implemented.

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The lecture prompted students to reflect more deeply on the true meaning of psychiatric work and provided them with a clearer understanding of the field as they consider their career paths. At the same time, it equipped them with a stronger foundation in psychiatric knowledge, preparing them for future endeavours in healthcare and related disciplines.

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Learn more about HATCH HK: https://www.hatchhk.org/