News

CEE Field Study cum BBQ Gathering for UG Students

The CEE Field Study cum BBQ Gathering for UG students was successfully held on 7 November 2025 (Friday). The activity welcomed over 100 participants, including undergraduate students from diverse cultural background and academic staff. This highlighted the event's focus on promoting cultural exchange and collaboration, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that encouraged dialogue and mutual understanding among all attendees. The event featured an eco-tour led by Mr Hoi-yung Lin, CEE Instructor, who provided an insightful overview to the Lung Kwu Tan Chinese White Dolphin Outlook. He discussed key concepts such as rock disintegration and erosion, linking them to real-world implications and fostering a deeper understanding of the local environment. Following the educational segment, participants enjoyed a vibrant BBQ Gathering, where students and staff bonded over delicious food and meaningful conversations. This event not only emphasized the importance of environmental education but also celebrated the cultural diversity within our academic community, creating lasting memories for all who attended. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all participants for their active involvement and we look forward to organizing more events in the future to maintain connections within the CEE community.  

PolyU Graduate School Outstanding Research Postgraduate Alumni Award 2025

We are proud to announce that Prof. Yuanfeng Duan, a distinguished PhD graduate of CEE, has been awarded the PolyU Graduate School Outstanding Research Postgraduate Alumni Award 2025. Prof. Duan obtained his doctoral degree from CEE in 2004 under the supervision of Professors Jan-ming Ko, Yi-qing NI, and Shi-lin Dong. With his impactful research and contributions to the field of Health Monitoring and Vibration Control of Bridges and Structures, Prof. Duan has been appointed Changjiang Scholar Distinguished Professor in 2024 and is currently serving as Professor in Structural and Bridge Engineering at Guangxi University and Zhejiang University. His pioneering works have been applied to health monitoring or vibration control of more than 60 large-scale structures, including the Main Stadium of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, China Quanzhou Bay Bridge, Hong Kong's Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Bridge and Taiwan’s Heart River Bridge, etc. Prof. Duan has also received the National Teaching Achievement Award and four science and technology awards at the provincial and ministerial levels. The PolyU Graduate School Outstanding Research Postgraduate Alumni Award aims to recognize the achievement of research postgraduate (RPg) alumni and promote the excellence of research postgraduate education at PolyU. The award acknowledges distinctive individuals who have demonstrated exceptional accomplishments to the academia, profession and research community. We sincerely congratulate Prof. Duan on receiving this well-deserved honor. We look forward to his continued dedication to research and innovation, and the lasting impact of his work on both academic and industry landscapes. For more details, please visit https://www.polyu.edu.hk/gs/news-and-events/outstanding-rpg-alumni-award-2025/.  

CEE Site Visit – Fanling Bypass Eastern Section

Led by Dr Nicole Yiu, Programme Leader of BSc (Hons) in Environmental and Occupational Safety & Health, a group of CEE UG students embarked on an insightful site visit to Fanling North New Development Area, Phase 1: Fanling Bypass Eastern Section on 4 November 2025 (Tuesday). This visit provided a unique opportunity for them to explore the latest infrastructure developments in the new development area and the cutting-edge technologies utilized in bridge construction. The activity was kicked off with a sharing in the Fanling North Community Liaison Centre, where students learned about features of the Fanling Bypass (Eastern Section), a 4km dual two‐lane carriageway connecting the FLN NDA to Fanling Highway. The students were then guided through the site, allowing them to walk up to the bridge deck and observe the key components and the innovative construction techniques adopted in the project. We extend our gratitude to the Safety and Environmental Advisory Unit of the Civil Engineering and Development Department for their warm hospitality and informative guidance throughout the visit. This experience has undoubtedly contributed to the students' professional growth, preparing them for future development in the field.  

CEE Members Secured Innovation and Technology Fund

Congratulations to Prof. Zhen Leng, Professor of CEE, and Prof. Shipeng Zhang, Assistant Professor of CEE, for securing Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF), administered by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) of the HKSAR Government. These achievements affirm their dedication to driving technological innovation and their ongoing pursuit of research excellence. The Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF) is designed to enhance the added value, productivity, and competitiveness of Hong Kong’s economic activities. Through the ITF, the Government seeks to encourage and support local companies in upgrading their technological capabilities and incorporating innovative ideas into their businesses. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Leng and Prof. Zhang. We look forward to the positive impacts their groundbreaking research will bring to the development of society.  Name of PC Proposal Title Funding Scheme Funding Amount Prof. Zhen Leng Intelligent Detection Technology of Concealed Defects in Asphalt Pavement Using Ground-Penetrating Radar Mainland-Hong Kong Joint Funding Scheme HK$2,244,110 Prof. Shipeng Zhang Upcycling the incineration fly ash into eco-friendly construction materials: a pathway development of detoxification, valorization, and prototyping Partnership Research Programme   HK$2,680,000    

Prof. Chi Sun Poon’s Eco-Blocks in Hongkong Land’s Green Renovation Initiative

CEE scholars continue to bridge the gap between academia and industry, striving to turn research into real-world applications. We are proud to highlight the recent collaboration between Prof. Chi Sun Poon, Distinguished Research Professor of CEE, and Hongkong Land in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at driving innovation in sustainable construction solutions. This partnership focuses on converting tempered and laminated glass waste into sustainable building materials, specifically the creation of low-carbon eco-blocks that can replace traditional cement in renovation projects. By utilizing recycled glass, this project not only reduces carbon emissions by 20-30% but also exemplifies how academic research can lead to practical applications that benefit the construction industry. Prof. Poon's expertise facilitates the transformation of construction waste into valuable resources, promoting environmentally friendly and efficient building practices. The eco-blocks match the weight and strength of traditional bricks while incorporating up to 30% recycled glass, represent a significant step toward achieving carbon neutrality in construction. This collaboration underscores our commitment to sustainability and innovation, paving the way for a greener future. Prof. Poon’s research continues to connect academic insights with industrial needs, delivering impactful solutions that advance the environmental goals. We look forward to his ongoing efforts in creating a sustainable future. Full version of the press release is available at: https://webfile.hkland.com/assets/press-release/2025/en/hll_20251023.pdf  

New joiner – Dr Claire Jinhui Li

Dr Claire Jinhui Li obtained her Ph.D. degree (2019) in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from The University of Hong Kong (joint Ph.D. at Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University), her M.Sc. (Master of Medicine) degree (2015) in Toxicology from Sun Yat-sen University, and her MBBS degree (2012) from Shanxi Medical University. Prior to joining PolyU as a Research Assistant Professor, she worked as an Assistant Professor (research-track) at School of Public Health, the University of Illinois Chicago, and as a Postdoctoral Scholar at Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr Li’s research centers on three interconnected areas: 1) environmental and cancer epidemiology; 2) environmental medicine and toxicology; and 3) environmental and occupational exposure–related mechanisms underlying chronic diseases. Dr Li has joined us on 3 November 2025.  

Prof. Tony Sze Featured on TVB News Programme

Prof. Tony Sze, Associate Professor of CEE, was featured on TVB News Programme, "A Closer Look (時事多面睇 - 指示不足)” (TVB News Ch.83), aired on 22 October 2025. The segment addresses the rising incidents of large vehicles colliding with overhead objects due to height restrictions. Prof. Sze shared expert insights on advanced driver warning systems using LiDAR sensors and high-speed cameras to detect over height vehicles, alerting drivers via variable message signs, and employing real-time monitoring to protect both road users and workers at road work sites.  A revisit of the interview can be found here (Starting from 9:00): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUpDA1c5ahA  

CEE PhD Student Received Best Oral Presentation Award at WDWE2025

Congratulations to Mr Zhiyong Long, CEE PhD Student supervised by Prof. Huan-Feng Duan, on receiving the Best Oral Presentational Award at the 5th International Symposium of Water Disaster Mitigation and Water Environment Regulation (WDWE2025) in October 2025. Mr Long’s award-winning presentation, titled “From Static to Dynamic: Revealing the Role of Population Mobility in Amplifying Coastal Flood Risk”, showcases his exceptional research contributions and commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges. This recent symposium, themed "Water, Climate Change, and Engineering Solutions for Megacities", brought together experts from around the world to explore the latest scientific advancements in water disaster prevention and ecosystem-based adaptation. This multidisciplinary event provided a valuable platform for researchers to share insights, present innovative strategies, and discuss best practices for building resilience against water disasters, pollution, and ecosystem degradation in the face of climate change. Participants discovered new approaches to support sustainable development in the world’s megacities. Congratulations again to our outstanding student for his remarkable achievement in winning the Best Oral Presentation Award. We look forward to his continued success and contributions in the field of hydraulics & water resources.  

12 CEE Scholars Secured NSFC Funding 2025

We are proud to announce that twelve exceptional CEE scholars have successfully secured funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC). Through their constant pursuit of research excellence and technological advancements, 11 of them are funded under Young Scientist Fund (Type C) while 1 of them is supported by the General Programme, with total funding exceeding RMB 3.8 million. Among the projects, 9 were initiated by the Shenzhen Research Institute of PolyU (SZRI). These achievements affirm the commitment of CEE scholars to advancing cutting-edge research, translating academic findings into practical applications, and contributing to the sustainable development of society and the environment. NSFC aims to support basic research and stimulate free exploration, identify and foster scientific talents. The fund enables young researchers to select their own research topics within the funding guidelines, empowering them to pursue foundational studies. It helps young scientists develop the skills needed to independently manage research projects and engage in innovative work, stimulates their creative thinking, and cultivates the next generation of leaders in basic research. Congratulations once again to all the outstanding CEE researchers. Their successes not only reflect their capabilities but also their strong commitment to maintaining the highest standards. We look forward to their transformative contributions, which will create a positive impact and shape a better future for our living environment.  

CEE Career Fair 2025

The CEE Career Fair 2025 was successfully held on 10 October 2025 (Friday). In collaboration with six leading companies in the field, AECOM, AtkinsRéalis, China State Hong Kong, Chun Wo Development Holdings Limited, Dragages Hong Kong and Gammon Construction Limited, the event brought together over 350 CEE undergraduate and master’s students participating in inspiring career talks and interactive sessions. Students had the opportunity to engage directly with industry professionals and alumni, gaining valuable insights into career paths, industry trends, and essential tips for success, as well as fostering relationships that could shape their future career. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the six distinguished companies for their time and expertise, and to our students for their enthusiastic involvement. The event was a tremendous success, establishing connections and motivating the next generation of civil and environmental engineers. Stay tuned for more CEE events as we continue to support our students in constructing their future!