Professor Young’s research has centred on theoretical problems in particle physics and the physics of dissipative and open systems. His early work addressed elementary particles, quantum field theory, and high-energy phenomenology. He subsequently developed eigenfunction representations for dissipative systems, providing theoretical frameworks for describing open systems subject to loss and irreversible processes, with applications in optics, gravitational waves, and related physical systems. This work has contributed to the theoretical treatment of dissipative phenomena across quantum and classical physics. Alongside his research, Professor Young has made sustained contributions to higher education, research administration, and scientific cooperation in Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region. During his tenure as Chairman of the Research Grants Council, he contributed to the development and administration of Hong Kong’s competitive research-funding system, while his service in regional scientific organisations supported cooperation among physics communities across Asia and the Pacific. Through sustained theoretical research, academic leadership, and engagement in science education and research administration, Professor Young has contributed to the development of theoretical physics and to higher education and scientific culture in Hong Kong and beyond.