Media Releases

理大初創亮相第九屆進博會 展示多元科研轉化成果 拓展產學研合作機遇 (Chinese Only)

Chinese Only

漢港科創協同大會暨「理大企投‧演創滙」武漢站圓滿舉行 23項深科技成果對接資本與產業 深化漢港創科協作 (Chinese Only)

Chinese Version Only

PolyU research uncovers hidden cause of ageing in perovskite solar cells; new strategy significantly extends cell lifetime

A research team at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has found a previously overlooked cause of ageing in perovskite solar cells exposed to light. The team has also developed a solution that effectively extends the cells’ lifetime, an important step towards bringing the technology to market. The study was conducted by Prof. YANG Guang, Assistant Professor of the PolyU Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, together with a team from Zhejiang University, and has been published in the international journal Watt. Prof. Nam-Gyu PARK of Sungkyunkwan University, Korea, a pioneer in perovskite photovoltaics, commended the work in a research highlight in the same journal. Perovskite solar cells are efficient, low-cost, lightweight and versatile, and are widely seen as one of the most promising next-generation solar technologies. However, their performance gradually declines after long exposure to sunlight, a process known as photodegradation. Solar panels must work reliably outdoors for many years, so photodegradation has long been a major barrier to large-scale perovskite solar cell commercialisation. The layer of a perovskite solar cell that generates electricity comprises countless tiny crystals called grains. The surface of each grain has a particular orientation, known as its crystal facet. In mixed-facet perovskite solar cells, grains with different facets sit side by side. Each facet has its own properties, which can affect how charges move, how defects form and how the material ages under light. The places where grains meet are called grain boundaries. When the cell absorbs sunlight, it produces negatively charged electrons and positively charged holes. Ideally, the two collect to form an electric current, but if they meet defects at grain boundaries, they can become trapped and cancel each other out. This wastes solar energy and gradually damages the cell. The team found that in mixed-facet structures, when grains with two common facets, (100) and (111), sit next to each other, charge losses on the two sides of the boundary between them are uneven. The (111) side of the boundary has more defects. Most of these are vacancies: gaps left where formamidinium (FA) ions should be in the material. As a result, an abnormal build-up of holes develops on that side. The (111) facet is naturally more resistant to ageing under light. However, the build-up of holes unexpectedly makes the (111) grains degrade faster, turning them into a source of ageing in the cell. The finding shows that a cell's lifetime depends not only on how stable each grain is, but also on how neighbouring grains interact. To address this source of degradation, the team added a compound called 3-fluorophenylethylammonium bromide (m-F-PEABr). Its molecules are too bulky to enter the grains, so they naturally collect at the grain boundaries. The positively charged end of each molecule takes the place of the missing FA ions and fills the vacancies at the (111) boundaries. Meanwhile, the fluorine-containing part holds the molecule firmly in place. Once the boundaries are repaired, charge losses on both sides become balanced, so no single spot becomes a focal point for degradation. Cells treated with this targeted strategy reached a power conversion efficiency of 26.55%. They also kept over 90% of their initial efficiency after more than 2,200 hours of continuous operation under light equivalent to one sun. This measure, known as the T90 operational lifetime, is a key indicator of long-term durability. Prof. Yang said, “Perovskite solar cells are already highly efficient, but stability is still the biggest barrier to commercialisation. Previous research has mostly focused on reducing the number of defects. We have shown for the first time that uneven charge losses between neighbouring grains are a key cause of ageing while the cells are working. By balancing the charge losses between grains, we can improve both the efficiency and the stability of the cells. This offers a new way of understanding cell ageing and opens a new path for developing more durable, commercially viable perovskite solar cells.＂ ***END***

PolyU establishes Research Institute for Microbiology to tackle antimicrobial resistance and drive AI-empowered medical innovation

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) officially inaugurated the Research Institute for Microbiology (RIM) on 23 October, taking a critical step forward in advancing interdisciplinary microbiology research and innovation across the University. Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President; Prof. GAO Fu, Director of the CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology at the Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; Prof. CHEN Sheng, Director of RIM, Head of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition and Chair Professor of Microbiology; Prof. DONG Cheng, Associate Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) and Associate Director of RIM; Prof. ZHANG Weixiong, Associate Director of the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR), Associate Director of RIM and Chair Professor of Systems Biology and Artificial Intelligence; Prof. HUANG Jian, Associate Director of RIM, Chair Professor of Data Science and Analytics of the Department of Applied Mathematics and Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, witnessed the official establishment of RIM. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prof. Jin-Guang Teng said, “The establishment of the Research Institute for Microbiology marks an important milestone in PolyU’s pursuit of interdisciplinary research and innovation. Embracing a One Health perspective, the Institute will bring together expertise in microbiology, immunomedicine, data science, systems biology, and artificial intelligence to accelerate scientific discovery and address pressing challenges. Through close collaboration across disciplines and sectors, we aim to translate research into innovations that safeguard public health and advance biotechnology, and to develop RIM into a world-renowned research institute in microbiology with impact extending well beyond the laboratory.” Prof. Zhang Weixiong, said that, with the valuable addition of RIM, PAIR now comprised 20 research units. The Institute will accelerate collaboration among PAIR’s research units and across its three research themes: Advanced Technologies and Manufacturing, Good Health and Well-being, and Smart and Sustainable Cities. Prof. Chen Sheng introduced RIM to the audience, outlining the Institute’s vision and mission which encompasses five research focus areas: infectious diseases; bacterial antimicrobial resistance under the One Health framework; drug and vaccine development; beneficial microorganisms and human health; and AI core. Following the ceremony, a seminar - “AI-Empowered Vaccine Development” - was delivered by renowned microbiologist Prof. Gao Fu who shared significant research breakthroughs in COVID-19 vaccine, therapeutic antibodies development, and T-cell immunotherapy. He also explained how AI can facilitate antibody design and modification. The seminar and subsequent inspiring discussion engaged over 16,000 online and in-person participants. ***END***

理大加入卓越大學聯盟 獲推選為下屆輪值主席高校 參與中英卓越大學校長論壇 與國際學界領袖共議人工智能時代教育變革 (Chinese only)

Chinese version only

中鐵電氣化局訪問香港理工大學 攜手推動軌道交通創新發展 (Chinese only)

Chinese version only

上實集團到訪理大 深化產學研協同 攜手服務國家發展新機遇 (Chinese only)

Chinese version only

PolyU holds 32nd Congregation (Autumn Sessions), encouraging doctoral graduates to contribute to society through innovation

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) kicked off its 32nd Congregation (Autumn Sessions) today with a ceremony at the Jockey Club Auditorium on campus, at which 324 graduates were awarded Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. The ceremony was presided over by PolyU Council Chairman Dr LAM Tai-fai and President Prof. Jin-Guang TENG. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng congratulated the doctoral graduates. He said, “Our Nation’s commitment to scientific and technological self-reliance and innovation-led growth, together with Hong Kong’s rapid development as an international innovation and technology hub, has created a vibrant landscape of opportunities for researchers and innovators. More than ever, society needs visionary leaders who can bridge the gap between frontier discovery and meaningful application.” He encouraged the graduates to seize the opportunities that present themselves and use their talents to serve our City, our Nation, and the world, living up to the PolyU motto, “To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind”. Speaking about PolyU’s development, Prof. Jin-Guang Teng said, “PolyU is committed to becoming an innovative world-class university that meets societal needs. Our strategic direction exemplifies what is known as a ‘fourth-generation university’: an institution that is demand-driven, problem-oriented, interdisciplinary in its approach and committed to academia-industry integration.” He added that PolyU was expanding its interdisciplinary platforms. Building on the success of its well-established PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR), PolyU Academy for Artificial Intelligence (PAAI) and PolyU Aerospace Research Academy (PARA), the University plans to establish a fourth research academy, the PolyU Academy for Lifestyle Medicine and Health Technology (PALM). Leveraging the University’s track record of excellence in nursing, rehabilitation sciences, food science and nutrition, and other relevant disciplines, PALM will aim to be a world-leading innovative and impactful lifestyle medicine research institute that will contribute to improving quality of life across our Nation and beyond. To take the University’s innovation ecosystem to the next level of excellence, PolyU will also establish the School of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SIE) in January 2027. The School is designed to be a launchpad that turns bold ideas into real-world ventures, incubating high-quality startups while cultivating a new generation of entrepreneurial leaders for our technology-driven era. PolyU will soon enter a historic chapter as it celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2027. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng invited the graduates to join the upcoming celebrations, while encouraging them “to lead with excellence, pioneer solutions to the world’s toughest challenges and build a better future for all.” The University is conferring academic awards on a total of 12,391 students this year, including 1 Doctor of Engineering honoris causa, 625 Doctor of Philosophy graduates, 223 professional doctorate graduates, 51 Master of Philosophy degree graduates, 6,886 taught master’s degree graduates, 4,594 bachelor’s degree graduates and 11 postgraduate diploma graduates. ***END***

PolyU launches Presidential Visiting Professors Scheme, attracting world-leading scholars to advance research excellence

As industries transform at an accelerating pace and global challenges grow increasingly complex, the research mission of higher education continues to evolve. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has launched its Presidential Visiting Professors Scheme (the Scheme), inviting internationally renowned scholars and distinguished experts to PolyU to pursue frontier research and high-level academic exchange. By bringing together leading research talent from around the world, the Scheme will foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation and explore new solutions to major challenges facing society and industry. The Scheme will provide visiting professors with comprehensive support and access to PolyU’s research platforms, state-of-the-art facilities and global partnership network, enabling them to work closely with PolyU scholars on frontier and interdisciplinary research and to accelerate the translation and application of research outcomes. By connecting world-leading research talent with PolyU’s innovation ecosystem, the Scheme will further strengthen international academic collaboration and advance impactful research for the benefit of society. Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, said, “As an innovative world-class university, PolyU is deeply committed to driving research excellence and fostering international academic synergy. The Presidential Visiting Professors Scheme embodies this vision by convening top-tier global minds to pioneer new frontiers of scientific discovery. Far more than a traditional visiting appointment, this flagship initiative provides a dynamic platform to cultivate enduring global partnerships, inspire the next generation of researchers, and deliver high-impact solutions to address challenges of global significance for the benefit of humanity.” PolyU is actively advancing the fourth-generation university model, moving beyond the traditional discipline-based and curiosity-driven approach towards one that is demand-driven, problem-oriented, interdisciplinary, with integration of academia and industry. The University is developing an integrated ecosystem spanning fundamental research, applied research, technology translation and enterprise incubation, taking knowledge and innovation beyond the campus and to respond directly to the needs of society and industry. The Scheme will bring together leading research talent across disciplines and regions, catalysing interdisciplinary and cross-border collaboration and injecting fresh momentum into this development. PolyU has strong research capabilities and a range of interdisciplinary research platforms. It is ranked 50th globally in the latest QS World University Rankings 2027, while 481 PolyU scholars are included in Stanford University’s latest list of the World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientists 2026, underscoring the international recognition of the University’s research excellence. PolyU has also established extensive collaboration networks across Chinese Mainland and the world, including translational research institutes in key Chinese Mainland cities that connect research, industry and innovation resources. With its advanced research infrastructure and collaborative networks, PolyU offers visiting professors a vibrant environment for them to pursue research and innovation and extend the impact of their work across the Greater Bay Area, the Nation and beyond. The Scheme is open to eminent scholars with outstanding achievements in research, teaching and academic leadership. Presidential Visiting Professors will work with PolyU scholars on joint research projects, co-author publications and pursue research funding, while sharing knowledge and nurturing the next generation of researchers through lectures, seminars and workshops. The Scheme also encourages long-term strategic partnerships between PolyU and the visiting professors’ home institutions, creating further opportunities for joint research and academic collaboration. Visits may last from three to 12 months and can be undertaken in a single period or in multiple stages. PolyU will provide a competitive support package, including an honorarium, accommodation allowance and transportation support, enabling visiting professors to focus on research and academic exchange. Nomination & Application Details Nomination Deadline: 31 December 2026 Further Information: https://polyu.hk/WXNOc Contact: polyu.pvps@polyu.edu.hk ***END***

PolyU signs joint statement with New Uzbekistan University and the “El-Yurt Umidi” Foundation, collaborating on 2+2 Dual Degree Undergraduate Programme and joint scholarship to nurture Belt and Road I&T talent

In support of the HKSAR Government’s “Study in Hong Kong” brand initiative, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to attracting outstanding global talent to pursue studies in Hong Kong, bolstering the City’s development as an international post-secondary education hub. Following the visit of a PolyU delegation to Central Asia in June this year, PolyU has taken a significant step forward in its collaboration with Uzbekistan. Yesterday (29 October), at the Global Talent Forum held in Uzbekistan, PolyU signed a trilateral joint statement with New Uzbekistan University (NewUU) and the “El-Yurt Umidi” Foundation (the Foundation) to partner in establishing a 2+2 Dual Degree Undergraduate Programme and joint scholarship scheme, providing high-quality educational opportunities for talented Uzbek youth. Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, welcomed and supported the signing of the joint statement. He noted that this joint statement reflected the shared commitment of PolyU, NewUU and the Foundation to building an impactful partnership. Together, the parties will contribute to nurturing future leaders for Uzbekistan by offering dual-degree pathways and joint scholarships in strategic areas such as STEM, artificial intelligence and data science. This collaboration not only advances PolyU’s strategic internationalisation goals but also strengthens Hong Kong’s standing as a world-class education hub by cultivating top-tier global talent, fully supporting the Nation’s Belt and Road Initiative. Prof. Yang CHAI, Associate Vice President (Education Innovation)-designate of PolyU, Mr Abdurakhmon UMAROV, Vice-Rector for Innovation and Research of New Uzbekistan University and Dr Gulnoza ISMAILOVA, Executive Director of the “El-Yurt Umidi” Foundation joined the signing ceremony. Prof. Chai stated that the collaboration connected the academic excellence of both regions. The proposed dual degree programme fully combines PolyU’s world-class strengths in emerging technologies with NewUU’s solid academic foundation. He added that PolyU looked forward to working in close partnership with the Foundation to nurture high-calibre innovators and leaders for Central Asia and beyond through scholarships, further expanding Hong Kong’s educational and academic influence along the Belt and Road. The proposed 2+2 Dual Degree Undergraduate Programme will admit Uzbek students to complete their first two years locally before continuing their remaining studies at PolyU. Upon fulfilling the graduation requirements of both institutions, students will be awarded a bachelor’s degree from each university. In support of the Programme, PolyU and the Foundation will establish a joint scholarship scheme to sponsor outstanding Uzbek students to pursue their further studies in Hong Kong. As an innovative world-class university, PolyU advances its strategic internationalisation by leveraging its excellence in education, research and knowledge transfer. The University continues to expand its global network, deepen higher education partnerships along the Belt and Road and attract top talent worldwide, nurturing socially responsible future leaders with a global outlook and cross-cultural competence. ***END***