HomeDate: 2024-01-03
Academician Chok-Yung Chai passed away in Taipei on December 28, 2023. He was 96 years old.
Dr. Chai was a distinguished expert in the fields of systems neuroscience, physiology, and pharmacology. His expertise was in the central nervous system's regulation of cardiovascular functions, stress response, and non-cardiovascular functions. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of the medulla oblongata on various physiological functions, and illuminated the physiology and pharmacology of central temperature regulation and cardiovascular control.
Dr. Chai graduated from the National Defense Medical Center in 1953, earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy from Columbia University in the United States in 1966, taught at the National Defense Medical Center, and served as Dean there from 1975 to 1983. Dr. Chai played a vital role in the establishment of the Institute of Biomedical Sciences at Academia Sinica. As an administrative officer at the Preparatory Office from 1981 to 1986, Dr. Chai played an important role in the construction of the research building. Dr. Chai has also served as Member of the Academia Sinica Council for multiple terms, providing substantial support for academic development at Academia Sinica.
Dr. Chai has received several prestigious awards, including the Outstanding Research Award from the National Science and Technology Council, the China Foundation for the Promotion of Education and Culture Award, and various medal and decorations from the Ministry of Defense, including the Order of the Cloud and Banner, the Order of Loyalty and Diligence, and the Medal of Scholarship. Dr. Chai was elected Academia Sinica Academician in 1978.
