MIT Hong Kong Innovation Node Leadership Update

Dear colleagues,

I’m excited to share that Bruce Tidor, professor of biological engineering and computer science, has agreed to be the new faculty director of the MIT Hong Kong Innovation Node (the Node).

Bruce brings a wealth of experience with collaborative programs, international engagements, and governance to his new role. Most recently, Bruce served as the Interim CEO and director of the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART), where he will continue to serve as deputy director this fall. Previously, he also led the MIT Skoltech Program and the MIT Portugal Program.

Launched in 2016, the Node fosters education, research and innovation between the Institute and the region through collaborative engagements and academic exchange. Located in Hong Kong, part of the dynamic Greater Bay Area, it serves as a strategic base to help faculty extend their intellectual impact into Asia.

The Node supports MIT faculty by providing teaching and knowledge-sharing opportunities, facilitating collaborations, supporting research endeavors, and hosting academic events. It acts as a hub for international work in Hong Kong and the broader region, offering workspace for researchers and enabling faculty-led initiatives. I encourage everyone who travels to or engages in the region to contact Bruce and Node Executive Director Marina Chan (mjchan@mit.edu) to see if the Node can assist in your work.

Bruce will succeed Charlie Sodini, Clarence J. LeBel Professor in Electrical Engineering, who has led the Node as faculty director since its launch in 2016. During his ten-year tenure, Charlie expanded Node activities from a global classroom to include interdisciplinary collaborations, experiential learning opportunities, and research engagements with alumni support. Under his leadership, the Node hosted more than 180 MIT faculty and 500 MIT students across Hong Kong and Shenzhen, and organized over 200 events. Charlie has made profound contributions during his time at the helm of the Node, and I deeply appreciate his leadership and service.

Join me in celebrating Charlie’s great work and congratulating Bruce on his new role!

Best,

Duane Boning
Vice Provost for International Activities