Professor Yannis Pitsiladis

                             Director, Centre for Exercise Science and Medicine (CESAME)

It is my great privilege to welcome you to the Centre for Exercise Science and Medicine (CESAME) at Hong Kong Baptist University.

CESAME was established as a flagship, transdisciplinary research hub dedicated to advancing sports science, sports medicine, and exercise-based health. As Hong Kong’s first Collaborating Centre of Sports Medicine (CCSM) recognised by the International Federation of Sports Medicine—and one of only 29 worldwide—CESAME represents a major milestone in positioning Hong Kong as a global contributor to athlete health, performance science, and public health innovation. 

Our Centre brings together world-leading infrastructure, including integrated multi-omics and genomics laboratories, advanced biomechanics and performance testing facilities, a DEXA body composition suite, specialised environmental and hypoxic chambers, and a unique global biobank of elite athlete samples. These capabilities allow us to investigate human performance, disease prevention, and health optimisation in a truly comprehensive manner.

My academic journey has been driven by a commitment to translating cutting-edge science into real-world impact—from building one of the largest DNA biobanks of athletes globally to establishing internationally recognised centres of excellence in sports medicine and anti-doping research. At HKBU, we continue this mission by advancing anti-doping science, pioneering real-time athlete monitoring technologies, and strengthening evidence-based public health strategies. 

Equally important is our role in shaping global dialogue. Through collaborations with international organisations and engagement with the Olympic movement and global health community, we are committed to protecting athlete welfare, promoting fairness in sport, and harnessing exercise as medicine to address major health challenges. 

At CESAME, we believe that insights gained from elite sport can—and must—translate into scalable health solutions for society. By uniting science, technology, and global partnerships, we aim to optimise human potential while safeguarding integrity, health, and well-being.

I invite you to join us as we push the boundaries of exercise science and work together to deliver lasting impact for sport and for humanity.