Professor Leung’s research program in artificial intelligence-driven optimization of acute, postacute care and community care assignments was first developed with the support of a theme-based research initiative of which he was a co-investigator. In addition to research productivity, the theme-based research initiative also gave Professor Leung an opportunity to build rewarding partnerships with many medical and social service providers in HK, from whom he continues to learn and with whom he continues to work on solving the managerial and operational problems they are facing.