Research Mingle: Convening international educators and scholars for an engaging dialogue on research mentorship
Behind every research breakthrough lies a powerful partnership between supervisor and student. This vital alliance took centre stage at the Research Mingle on 10 July, an event organised by the Research Office as part of the 2026 International Advisory Board (IAB) Annual Meeting hosted by the Graduate School.
The session drew about 100 participants, including representatives from including Adelaide University, Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University, Cornell University, McGill University, National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, The Australian National University, The University of Western Australia, and the University of Science and Technology of China.
Moderated by Chair Professor in Information Systems and Digital Innovation Management Professor Christy Cheung (above, 1st from left), the panel was joined by Associate Professor, Department of Communication Studies Professor Jos Bartels (2nd from left), and Associate Professor, Academy of Geography, Sociology and International Studies Professor Guo Meiyu (4th from left), alongside their supervised PhD students – Mike Zhang (Centred) and Hong Pu.
The power of scholarly synergy was apparent in the work of Professor Guo, who recently published a paper in Nature Communications with her student, Hong. “It is not just a paper; it is proof of our strong supervisor–PhD student alliance,” she remarked.
To achieve milestones like this, Professor Guo adheres to a definitive philosophy. “There is no perfect formula [for supervision], but I stand by three rules: high standards, honest feedback, and [providing] confidence,” she explained. “I strive to provide enough trust for my students to do their own reading, to tackle challenges in their own way, and to provide space for them to grow so they can become braver academics.”
Hong, Professor Guo’s student, also highlighted the vital role trust plays when overcoming setbacks. For Hong, knowing that his supervisor was invested in his journey and growth as an individual researcher -- and not just his publication -- made all the difference. It is a philosophy that has inspired him to pay it forward when he eventually guides his own students.
Having started his academic journey in the Netherlands, where PhD students are treated as project employees, Professor Bartels views his role more as a colleague than a supervisor.
“I don’t see them as PhD students, but as young academics who need help growing into more experienced scholars,” said Professor Bartels, recipient of "President’s Award for Outstanding Performance in Research Supervision" this year.
“I don’t expect them to write award-winning papers. I respect that they should work on something they really like. And when it’s time to prepare a thesis or a paper, I’m the one to help them get it to a higher level.”
Professor Bartels’ approach has made an impact on his student, Zhang, who found his supervisor’s guidance and perspectives invaluable at critical stages like thesis writing. The experience has inspired him to be the same kind of advisor in the future – someone who builds genuine friendships with students in daily life while serving as a trusted mentor during vital academic milestones.
Reflecting on her own journey as a leading researcher and supervisor - who was awarded the "President’s Award for Outstanding Performance in Research Supervision" in 19/20 - Professor Cheung emphasised that a shared vision is fundamental to a successful, efficient mentorship. “Especially when it comes to interdisciplinary or international collaborations, it is crucial to match supervisors and students thoughtfully in order to cultivate and facilitate complex research,” she said.
The dialogue between the supervising professors and their students offered holistic perspectives on the topic, illustrating how collaborative partnerships enrich the academic experience and drive impactful research outcomes.
The two-day event also included a poster session, where HKBU young researchers showcased their findings to the university's leadership and visiting international scholars. Additionally, the programme incorporated a PhD student presentations and competition session focusing on themes pertaining to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Professor Christy Cheung's mentee, PhD student Grace Gao (5th from left), a winner of the Best Presenter award, poses with President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Wai (4th from left, Vice-President (Research and Development) and Dean of the Graduate School Professor Lyu Aiping (3rd from left), and colleagues from the Research Office.
Professor Wai (1st from right), Professor Lyu (1st from left), Professor Christy Cheung (2nd lfrom eft), Professor Cheung King-ho, Executive Associate Dean of Graduate Schoo (3rd from left), pose with IAB delegates.
These high-level engagements underscore HKBU's commitment to advancing global research collaboration and translating interdisciplinary knowledge into impactful scientific and educational outcomes. By bridging international expertise with next-generation academic talent, the university continues to cultivate a vibrant, globally connected ecosystem.
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