Programme Faculty

Director

Professor Li is a Chair Professor at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and has led numerous funded research projects, with a total value exceeding HK$300 million. These include 12 major projects each exceeding HK$5 million, funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission, National Ministry of Science and Technology, HKSAR Government, and Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust. Additionally, he has secured over HK$20 million in industry cash sponsorship. Recognised for his impactful collaborations and multiple research awards, Professor Li specializes in advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and sensor-based systems, aligning directly with the Centre’s strategic objectives.

Associate Director (Professional Training)

Professor Chi an Associate Professor at PolyU’s Department of Building and Real Estate, Professor Chi holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from National Taiwan University, with a research background in computer-aided engineering for construction management. His interests include automation, visualisation, sensing and tracking technologies, and AR-enhanced teleoperation. He previously held a research fellow position at Curtin University’s Joint Research Centre for Building Information Modelling. He is a recipient of the Discovery Early Career Research Award from the Australian Research Council and has secured grants including the RGC Early Career Scheme. His work integrates AI, lean construction, VR environments, and BIM-enabled inspection systems.

Core Research Member

Professor Weng holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Material Science Engineering and Financial Engineering, a master’s degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, and a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Nanyang Technological University. His research areas include digital construction, additive manufacturing, construction robotics, and novel construction materials. Prior to joining PolyU, he worked as a research fellow at NTU, focusing on robotics applications for building and construction.

Associate Director (Research) & Secretary of the Committee ​

Dr. Ma earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering Science from the University of Oxford and completed her PhD at PolyU, where she began her research in construction workforce optimisation through biomedical sensor technologies. Her innovations include a wireless sweat lactate biosensor and an autonomous drug delivery patch for wound care. Currently, as a an research assistant professor, she leads research on multimodal wearable biosensors and AI-driven human–robot interfaces, contributing to brain–machine interaction systems and supporting robotic development in construction.