Aug 30, 2026
Dr Ruibang Luo, Associate Professor of Computer Science at the University of Hong Kong, developed an artificial intelligence tool for genomic data analysis. The tool makes this process faster, more accurate, and less expensive. It can help identify genetic variants linked to disease risks. It is also useful in healthcare and food security.
The tool has been downloaded more than ten million times. Around 60 percent of these downloads came from other APEC economies. It is used in disease prevention, precision medicine, and agricultural and medical biotechnology. Its algorithms are also being integrated into clinical systems. These systems can help detect early-stage cancer and rare diseases in newborns.
Luo received the 2026 APEC Science Prize for Innovation, Research and Education (ASPIRE) for his work. The prize includes USD 25,000 from the NCAPEC Foundation, Lam Research, and Google. The winner was announced during the Third APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting in Dalian. Each year, the 21 APEC member economies nominate one early-career scientist. A regional vote then selects one winner. The prize aims to support scientific cooperation and innovation across the APEC region.
AI Tool Transforming Genomic Analysis Wins 2026 ASPIRE Prize | APEC. (2026, August 29). APEC. https://www.apec.org/press/news-releases/2026/0829_ASPIRE