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Three PolyU projects receive top NSFC/RGC Collaborative Research Scheme funding and four projects supported by Joint Research Scheme

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has secured funding support for three projects under the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Research Grants Council (NSFC/RGC)’s Collaborative Research Scheme (CRS) 2023/24 Exercise. This accomplishment demonstrates the University’s research excellence in larger-scale scientific and technological projects. The three CRS projects received total funding of HK$10.5 million, leading the way among local education institutions in terms of the number of funded projects and the amount of funding granted. The research projects, all with a duration of four years, aim to promote interdisciplinary collaboration between universities in Mainland China and Hong Kong. They propose ground-breaking solutions for advancing information technology, management and environmental science. Led by Prof. Jiannong CAO, Dean of the Graduate School, Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Professor in Data Science, and Chair Professor of Distributed and Mobile Computing, the project “Efficient Scheduling of Integrated Cloud-Edge-End Computing Power for AI-enabled Applications” has received funding of HK$3.6 million. It proposes a systematic framework for the management and scheduling of integrated-cloud-edge-end computing power to support resource-hungry and latency-sensitive AI-empowered applications, contributing to the construction of the national computer power network. Prof. Geoffrey Q.P. SHEN, Associate Vice President (Global Partnerships), Director of Global Engagement and Chair Professor of Construction Management, leads the project “The Mechanism and Policy Optimisation of Multi-stakeholder Cross-regional Collaboration in the Construction Industry of the GBA”, also with a grant of HK$3.6 million. It aims to investigate mechanisms of cross-regional collaboration among stakeholders under ‘One Country, Two Systems’ and the influence mechanisms of collaboration behaviour on the performance of collaboration in the construction industry of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) so as to simulate and provide proposals for facilitating the development of relevant cooperation policies. Led by Prof. Songye ZHU, Associate Head and Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the project “Develop Next-generation Typhoon-resistant Deep-sea Offshore Floating Hybrid Wind-wave Energy Converters: From Coupling Load Mechanism to Vibration Migration Technology” has been granted HK$3.3 million. It proposes systematic investigations to advance the development of typhoon-resistant floating hybrid offshore wind-wave energy converters, which hold great promise as a renewable energy source. Professor Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), said, “We are delighted and proud to have secured funding support from NSFC and RGC for promoting multidisciplinary collaborations with universities in Mainland China and Hong Kong. PolyU has received the largest number of approved projects and the highest level of funding among institutions in Hong Kong. This significant achievement reflects our research excellence in the fields of information technology, management and environmental science. It also reaffirms our position as a research powerhouse and a leading institution dedicated to driving scientific and technological advancements. PolyU will continue to champion innovation, collaboration and excellence in research, aiming to make a signature impact on the global stage.” Under the Joint Research Scheme (JRS) of the NSFC/RGC, four PolyU projects have received total funding support of HK$4.8 million for a duration of four years. The projects cover topics in life science, new materials science and sustainable city development. The four funded projects are “Novel SNARE Complexes of Autophagosome-lysosome Fusion: Mechanistic Study and Strategy for Modulation” led Prof. Yanxiang ZHAO, Associate Head and Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology; “A New Paradigm for Designing and Manufacturing of 4D Printed Reconfigurable Lattice Structures for Tunable Broadband Vibration Suppression” led by Prof. Li CHENG, Associate Dean of Research (ENG) and Chair Professor of Mechanical Engineering; “Mastering the Synergy Between High-voltage Cathode and Electrolyte to Build Robust Interfaces for Advanced Potassium-ion Battery” led by Dr Biao ZHANG, Associate Professor of the Department of Applied Physics; and “Recycling Construction Waste in Highway Embankments towards Sustainable Development of City Clusters: Geotechnical Assessment Considering Multi-physics Coupling Effects” led by Dr Chao ZHOU, Tsui Tack Kong Young Scholar in Civil Engineering and Associate Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. The NSFC/RGC supports research projects jointly proposed by Mainland China and Hong Kong researchers on the basis of their scientific merit. The CRS, which was newly introduced in 2022/23, aims to support larger-scale collaborative research across disciplines and/or across universities in the Mainland and Hong Kong with a view to enhancing research output and impact. The grant for each Hong Kong applicant is limited to HK$3.6 million. The JRS promotes collaboration between researchers in the Mainland and Hong Kong for their complementary strengths. The amount of funding for Hong Kong applicants is limited to HK$1.25 million. For further information of these PolyU funded projects, please refer to the appendix.   ***END***

PolyU and HKSI to establish joint research centre for advancing sports and technology development

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of the “PolyU–HKSI Research Centre” (the Centre) to drive research in the field of elite sports, promote the development of sports science and technology, and help Hong Kong athletes reach their full potential and achieve greater success. This strategic partnership will foster a closer collaboration between the PolyU and HKSI. Together, the two institutions will share resources and advance research in sports science and technology development. The Centre will connect PolyU researchers with sports organisations to form an expert team comprising academics, technologists, sports professionals and technical analysts. This team will conduct cutting-edge interdisciplinary research and develop joint proposals for large-scale projects. Witnessed by Dr LAM Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President as well as HKSI representatives including Mr Tony CHOI, Chief Executive Designate and Dr Raymond SO, Director of Elite Training Science & Technology, the MoU was signed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU and Dr Trisha LEAHY, Chief Executive of HKSI to officially establish the “PolyU–HKSI Research Centre”. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng said, “PolyU has been a staunch supporter of sports development. We launched the ‘Outstanding Sportsmen Recommendation Scheme’ in 1998, and have partnered with the Hong Kong Sports Institute on the ‘Elite Athletes Study Programme’ since 2017 to encourage elite athletes to study undergraduate programmes at PolyU. The establishment of the Research Centre signifies the commitment of both parties to making greater contributions to promote the development of sports.” Dr Trisha Leahy said, “The HKSI is committed to supporting athletes’ performance through the development and utilisation of novel sports technologies. We look forward to working closely with PolyU and seeing Hong Kong athletes scale new heights.” The Centre will be jointly operated by PolyU’s Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports) and the HKSI under the leadership of the inaugural Centre Coordinators, Prof. Ming ZHANG from PolyU and Dr Raymond So from the HKSI. It will serve as a platform for research innovation, knowledge exchange and technology transfer in the realm of elite sports. RISports was established in June 2022 to address emerging societal needs in sports research and technology. It brings together multi-disciplinary experts from the PolyU and around the world to deliver advanced scientific solutions for the field of sports.   ***END***

PolyU honours five distinguished personalities at the 29th Congregation

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) held its 29th Congregation today, presided over by PolyU Council Chairman Dr LAM Tai-fai and President Prof. Jin-Guang TENG. At the Congregation, held in the Jockey Club Auditorium on campus, Honorary Doctorates were conferred upon five prominent figures and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees were awarded to 375 graduates. The five honorary degree recipients were (in alphabetical order of last name; please refer to the Appendix for the recipients’ biodata): The Hon Mrs Laura CHA SHIH May-lung, GBM, GBS, JP, Chairman of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd Prof. GONG Qihuang, President of Peking University and Academician of The Chinese Academy of Sciences Mr Xiaojia Charles LI, SBS, Founder and Chairman of Micro Connect Prof. XU Ningsheng, Former President of Fudan University and Academician of The Chinese Academy of Sciences Prof. ZHONG Nanshan, Professor of Internal Medicine at Guangzhou Medical University and Academician of The Chinese Academy of Engineering Prof. Jin-Guang Teng extended his congratulations to the honorary doctorates and doctoral graduates, stating that the graduates are experiencing a period in which innovation and technology are evolving at an extraordinary pace with the emergence of game-changing technologies such as generative AI that are rapidly transforming the way we work, study and live. PolyU is renowned for its excellence in research, innovation and STEM disciplines, and its graduates are in a strong position to drive progress in this new technological era. He encouraged them to utilise their talent and make a significant contribution to the achievement of Hong Kong's vision of developing into an international innovation and technology hub and to propelling the scientific and socio-economic advancement of our Nation and beyond. Prof. Teng added that PolyU is positioning itself as an innovative world-class university with an aspiration to nurture graduates who will become leaders of innovation, and to translate research into innovations with direct societal benefits. He said, “The University has set up translational research institutes focused on technology and innovation in various cities across the Mainland, facilitating the transfer of knowledge to meet the industrial and societal needs of each city. Additionally, in response to the demands of talent for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we are planning to establish a new Faculty at PolyU focused on computing, mathematical sciences and digital technology.” Prof. Teng advised the graduates, “As you step into the next chapter of your lives, let the diligence and determination you have demonstrated throughout your studies guide you in overcoming future obstacles and seizing new opportunities to make a positive difference to the world around them, living up to our University motto, ‘To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’.” The University is conferring academic awards on a total of 10,304 students this year, including 375 Doctor of Philosophy degree graduates, 120 professional doctoral degree graduates, 50 Master of Philosophy degree graduates, 5,153 taught master’s degree graduates, 4,244 bachelor’s degree graduates, 17 postgraduate diploma recipients, and 345 sub-degree award recipients.   The Hon Mrs Laura Cha Shih May-lung was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Business Administration. Prof. Gong Qihuang was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science. Mr Xiaojia Charles Li was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Business Administration. Prof. Xu Ningsheng was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science. Prof. Zhong Nanshan was conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science. *** END ***

Consul General of Bangladesh in Hong Kong highlights the partnership in ICT between Bangladesh and Hong Kong in PolyU PReCIT’s third Consul General Talk

The Policy Research Centre for Innovation and Technology (PReCIT) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) hosted the third talk in the “Consul General Talk Series” with the topic “Promote Partnership between Bangladesh and Hong Kong in ICT for a Knowledge-based Economy” on 21 November. Supported by the PolyU Department of Applied Social Sciences and Global Engagement Office, the talk featured Ms Israt ARA, Consul General of Bangladesh in Hong Kong, who captivated the audience with her comprehensive insights into the intertwined relationship between ICT and transformation in the socio-economic life of people. Ms Ara shed light on how ICT can serve as a catalyst for the socio-economic transformation in societies and create business opportunities in the changing global economy. She further highlighted the transition from a “Digital Bangladesh” to a “Smart Bangladesh” by 2041. Referring to the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Hong Kong and considering the position of Hong Kong as the global financial hub and innovation centre, she also sought cooperation from Hong Kong in collaborative research, human resource development, technology transfer, cybersecurity and more. Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Director of PReCIT, emphasised the importance of partnerships between Bangladesh and Hong Kong in contributing to the growth of a knowledge-based economy in his welcoming speech. He highlighted the MoU signed earlier this year by PolyU and Jahangirnagar University, one of the top universities in Bangladesh, which established collaboration on education and research with Bangladesh. Prof. Eric CHUI, Head of the Department of Applied Social Science and Co-Director of PReCIT, expressed gratitude for the audience’s active participation and enthusiastic response. He urged PolyU students to foster an international perspective, embrace more exciting opportunities, and contribute to Hong Kong, our Nation, and the world. A Bangladeshi final-year PolyU student was also invited to share his experience of study and life in Hong Kong with participants, facilitating cross-cultural understanding and integration between PolyU’s local and non-local communities. Through the Hong Kong-based diplomats sharing their perspectives, PReCIT’s “Consul General Talk Series” aims to serve as a platform for the PolyU community and the general public to gain inspiring insights and knowledge about the development of innovation and technology, policies, as well as the opportunities and prospects in the Belt and Road countries.   ***END***

Inauguration of the PolyU Research Centre for Assistive Technology to foster research collaboration with local and international partners

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has inaugurated the Research Centre for Assistive Technology (RCATech) to support people with disabilities and the elderly in the field of assistive devices design and technology, as well as rehabilitation research and development, with the aim of creating an inclusive and accessible society. In addition, RCATech has entered into collaborative agreements with international research institutes and local industry partners in pursuit of its mission. As the first research centre for assistive technology among Hong Kong educational institutions, RCATech has partnered with local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and international educational institutions to advance multidisciplinary research and promote technology transformation for the benefit of industry and society more broadly. In Hong Kong, RCATech collaborates with five local NGOs: The Hong Kong Society for the Aged, Innovation Hub, Elderly Resources Centre of Hong Kong Housing Society, Hong Kong PHAB Association, SAHK and Association for Engineering and Medical Volunteer Services. Additionally, it partners with two international research centres, namely the AGE-WELL Network of Centres of Excellence at the University of Toronto, in Canada and the Rehabilitation Research Institute of Singapore (RRIS) at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore. It is also honoured to have Prof. Frank CHAN Fan, the former Secretary for Transport and Housing of the HKSAR government and the current Hong Kong’s Deputy to the National People’s Congress, as Honorary Advisor. RCATech directly engages with rehabilitation and healthcare professionals, engineers and designers to optimise research applications and generate impactful outcomes. The inauguration ceremony was held at PolyU campus on 20 November. During the ceremony, collaborative agreements were signed with international educational institutions and industry partners to strengthen RCATech's research platform and assistive technology development. Witnessed by Prof. Zuankai WANG, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU and Prof. David SHUM, Dean of Faculty of Health and Social Sciences (FHSS), and Ms Milie NG, Senior Project Manager, Rehabilitation Research Institute of Singapore (RRIS) of Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the Master Research Collaboration Agreement was signed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation), PolyU and Prof. Wei Tech ANG, Executive Director, RRIS, NTU. RCATech and RRIS at NTU signed an agreement for master research collaboration and project cooperation to advance rehabilitation research. One notable example is a feasibility study for the development of a normative ability database for individuals of Asian ethnicity with movement disorders and their healthy counterparts. Prof. Zuankai Wang said in the welcoming remarks, “RCATech and our partners share a strong desire to pursue collaborative research and development activities in rehabilitation. The inauguration of RCATech signifies a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts among academics, industry and professionals working on assistive technology to foster an inclusive and accessible society.” Prof. Wei Tech Ang said, “RRIS’ and RCATech’s joint efforts, exemplified by projects such as establishing the ability movement database, underscore our commitment to harnessing the latest technologies and patient data to enhance the lives of those in need. As we embark on this journey together, I am confident that RCATech, with its multidisciplinary approach and international co-operations, will continue to be a beacon in the pursuit of excellence in assistive technology, fostering inclusivity and accessibility for all.” Additionally, PolyU Faculty of Health and Social Sciences has formed a partnership with HKT to provide support to the research projects conducted by FHSS academics, researchers and students on the PolyU campus leveraging HKT’s 5G network coverage and services. The cooperation also includes collaborative research activities aimed at benefiting the healthcare industry. Prof. David Shum said, “PolyU distinguishes itself by being the first university in Hong Kong to establish a dedicated research centre for assistive technology. This distinction arises from the University’s unique combination of disciplines – rehabilitation, health sciences, design, environmental studies and engineering – working alongside the PolyU Industrial Centre. Together, we will strive to develop cutting-edge devices, systems and research projects that will not only lead the field in Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region, but also have a positive impact on society.” Prof. Frank CHAN Fan, Honorary Advisor of RCATech, said, “Assistive Technology is now recognised as a life changer. With the establishment of the Research Centre for Assistive Technology, PolyU is poised to become the epicentre in the search for excellence in rehabilitation sciences and assistive technology My warmest congratulations to all those who have made it happen and make a difference, and thank you for everything you have done.” About RCATech RCATech leverages PolyU’s research excellence and academic heritage in the rehabilitation, health sciences, design, environmental and engineering disciples to develop fundamental technologies and intelligent applications. The Centre comprises researchers from the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, School of Design, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Construction and Environment, Industrial Centre and Jockey Club Design Institute for Social Innovation.   ***END***

15 PolyU academics recognised amongst world’s most highly cited researchers; PolyU ranked third in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has the third highest number of the world’s most highly cited researchers in Hong Kong this year, with 15 PolyU academics (including two former PolyU scholars) being recognised in the list of “Highly Cited Researchers 2023” by Clarivate Analytics for their significant research impact, as reflected in their publication of multiple papers that have been frequently cited by fellow academics. A total of 6,849 researchers from 67 countries and regions from a diverse range of research fields are named as Highly Cited Researchers in 2023. The list identifies the most influential scholars from around the world, determined by the production of multiple highly-cited papers that rank in the top 1% by citations for field and year in the Web of Science citation index over the last 11 years. The inclusion of 15 PolyU academics in the list is a testament to the University’s pursuit of research excellence and commitment to positive societal impact on various fronts. PolyU researchers featured in the list are as follows (in alphabetical order):   Category Name Title and Department Cross-Field Prof. Daniel S.P. LAU Chair Professor of the Department of Applied Physics Prof. LI Gang Chair Professor of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Prof. Kian Ping LOH Chair Professor of the Department of Applied Physics Dr MA Ruijie Postdoctoral Fellow of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Prof. Geoffrey Q. P. SHEN Associate Vice President (Global Partnerships) and Chair Professor of the Department of Building and Real Estate Prof. WANG Zuankai Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Chair Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering Prof. Tom Tao WU Chair Professor of the Department of Applied Physics Prof. YAN Feng Chair Professor of the Department of Applied Physics Dr Iris YU Ka-ming Former Research Assistant Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology Dr ZHANG Xiao Assistant Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering Engineering Prof. YAN Jinyue Jerry Chair Professor of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering Prof. ZHANG Lei John Chair Professor of the Department of Computing Chemistry Dr HUANG Bolong Associate Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology Computer Science Dr GUO Song Former Professor of the Department of Computing Social Science Prof. LAW Rob Honorary Professor of the School of Hotel and Tourism Management   ***END***

PolyU researchers develop novel selenium nanoparticles for managing postmenopausal osteoporosis

As the aging population around the world grows, metabolic diseases like osteoporosis are becoming more prevalent and placing a greater burden on healthcare systems. Rising to this challenge, a research team led by Prof. WONG Ka-hing, Director of the Research Institute for Future Food and Professor of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has developed novel selenium nanoparticles (Cs4-SeNPs) for managing postmenopausal osteoporosis. The latest research findings were recently published in Journal of Functional Foods. This patented nanotechnology has also gained wide recognition, leading to various national and international awards, including the Ministry of Education’s Higher Education Outstanding Scientific Research Output Awards (Science and Technology) 2020: Second-Class Award in Technological Innovation. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace mineral for human health, playing important roles in many physiological functions. In the past decades, substantial evidence has demonstrated that Se deficiency is detrimental to bone microarchitecture and is associated with osteoporosis, suggesting its crucial role in bone metabolism. Recently, selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have become a new target of research, since they were found to possess remarkable bioactivity and lower toxicity compared to selenocompounds commonly found in foods. However, scientific research concerning their effects on bone health is currently very limited. Cordyceps sinensis (Berk.) Sacc. is a medicinal fungus which has been long used as a tonic and therapeutic agent. By using polysaccharide–protein complexes (PSPs) isolated from the C. sinensis mycelium (Cs4) and a previously patented nanotechnology, the research team has recently prepared novel selenium nanoparticles with a uniform structure and high stability (Cs4-SeNPs). In experiments using pre-osteoblast murine MC3T3-E1 cells, the research team demonstrated that Cs4-SeNPs were taken up rapidly and efficiently by the cells. Treatment with Cs4-SeNPs (10µM) increased proliferation of the MC3T3-E1 cells and promoted their differentiation to mature osteoblasts. Enhancement of bone mineralization of the MC3T3-E1 cells was also observed, indicating the promoting effect of Cs4-SeNPs on new bone formation. Further investigation of their action mechanism revealed that Cs4-SeNPs induced the production of physiological levels of reactive oxygen species to trigger osteoblast differentiation. Interestingly, comparison of these effects with those of common selenocompounds found that only Cs4-SeNPs showed significant osteogenic activity, and it was less toxic to the cells. More importantly, Cs4-SeNPs (25-500μg/kg BW/day) exhibited promising in vivo bone protective efficacy against OVX-induced osteoporosis by promoting bone formation, inhibiting bone resorption, and improving bone microarchitecture after oral gavage for 6 weeks. The team is currently working with local industry partners to bring the resulting health food products to market. Prof. Wong said, “The novel nano-mineral Cs4-SeNPs has a wide spectrum of health promotion and disease prevention applications, not just for postmenopausal osteoporosis management. Apart from developing a high-quality, safe and evidence-based bone protective agent to improve the quality of life of postmenopausal osteoporosis patients, our team is now investigating the effects of Cs4-SeNPs on treating Parkinson’s disease and more. We hope to tap into its potential biomedical value through interdisciplinary collaboration, thus further promoting research and applications in related fields.”   ***END***

PolyU joins hands with Hangzhou and Wenzhou in Zhejiang Province to build innovation platforms for advancing technologies and cultural tourism

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has teamed up with Hangzhou and Wenzhou, two major cities in Zhejiang Province, to build innovation platforms for advanced technology and innovation, as well as cultural tourism, with a view to deepening their collaborations with Hong Kong. The signing and unveiling ceremony of the PolyU-Wenzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute (the Institute) was held at the Wenzhou People’s Congress Hall on 9 November, marking the official landing of the Institute in Wenzhou. The Institute strives to foster technological innovation, talent cultivation, and research and development (R&D), developing Wenzhou into an innovation and technology (I&T) hub. Separately, PolyU signed agreements with the Wenzhou Municipal People’s Government and the Administration Committee of Wenzhou Bay New Area. Witnessed by Dr LAM Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU; Mr ZHANG Zhenfeng, Secretary of Wenzhou Municipal Party Committee; Mr GE Yiping, Director of the Standing Committee of Wenzhou Municipal People’s Congress; and Mr CHEN Zuorong, Chairman of the Wenzhou Municipal People’s Political Consultative Conference, the agreement at the municipal level was signed by Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU and Mr WANG Zhenyong, Vice-Mayor of Wenzhou Municipal People’s Government; while at district level it was signed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU and Mr ZHOU Yi-fu, Secretary of the Longwan District Committee of Wenzhou Municipal People’s Government. PolyU is the first university in Hong Kong to collaborate with Wenzhou Municipal People’s Government in setting up a technology and innovation research institute in Wenzhou. The Institute aims to promote I&T development in the Southeastern coastal region, in response to the industrial development needs of Wenzhou and Zhejiang Province specifically, and the Nation more broadly. The Institute will engage in close collaborations with local key industries in the areas of marine engineering equipment and technology, flexible electronics, and ultra-precision manufacturing to advance their core technologies, outcome transformation, talent development, and innovation and entrepreneurship, promoting the high-quality economic development of the cites. In his speech, Dr LAM Tai-fai emphasised that PolyU values research and innovation, actively promoting the transformation of research outcomes into practical applications, and believes the joint establishment of the Institute holds great promise. With its strong research capabilities and a pool of world-class scholars, the University provides a solid foundation for deep collaboration between Hong Kong and Wenzhou, which has a thriving private economy with a solid industrial foundation with hardworking and innovative talents. PolyU will further leverage its advantages in talents, academia, research, and internationalisation, while captalising on Wenzhou’s industrial clusters, innovation, talent cultivation, and R&D services to explore new methods, concepts, and perspectives in research for accelerating the transformation and application of research achievements as well as driving industrial upgrading. This innovation platform will serve as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation with various stakeholders in Wenzhou in terms of talent attraction, innovation ecosystem, cultural inheritance and exchange, making greater contributions to high-quality regional development. Mr ZHANG Zhenfeng stated that innovation is in Wenzhou’s genes. In recent years, Wenzhou has always kept in mind the earnest instructions from General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party Xi Jinping to continue writing the history of innovation. Wenzhou is determined to take the path of innovation-driven development by enhancing its capabilities for innovation, developing strategic innovation platforms and introducing university-industry research collaboration platforms. The cooperation with PolyU is perfectly timed, at the right place and with the right people. The Institute will become a powerful engine to develop Wenzhou into a nationally innovative city, a new force in fostering two industrial clusters with output valued at the trillion-yuan level, and a bridge to connect to global innovation resources. It will help enhance Wenzhou’s competitiveness in technological innovation, shape new trends in industrial development, and attract innovative international talents. Wenzhou will do its best to provide efficient services to ensure the smooth operation and development of the Institute. The PolyU delegation not only introduced the Institute’s development plan and presented a research showcase of the latest technology achievements for local enterprises, but also made visits to local universities. Moving forward, the two parties will stive to strengthen cooperation in technology, as well as promote academic and cultural exchanges between Wenzhou and Hong Kong to achieve a win-win outcome. Previously, the PolyU-Hangzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute was also officially launched with a signing and unveiling ceremony on 7 November, in Hangzhou. The Institute aspires to promote advanced technology in the fields of Grand Canal culture and tourism, intelligent transportation and medical aesthetics, and will initially establish three research centres, namely the Grand Canal Culture and Tourism Research Center, Intelligent Rail Transit Center, and Digital Medical Aesthetics Research Center. These centres will collaborate with Hangzhou’s key industries and university research institutes in information technology and internet, cultural tourism, smart cities, biomedicine, and high-end equipment manufacturing, providing exchange platforms for researchers, technology innovation services for local enterprises, as well as application scenarios for cutting-edge PolyU technologies. Identified as one of the important provinces for national panning, Zhejiang province has been committed to promoting the coordinated development of education, technology and the economy. The establishment of the two new research institutes aims to build closer ties between Hong Kong and the two cities, bringing together innovative talents and resources. It also seeks to strengthen industry-university research collaborations and connect local industries with international markets, so as to develop Zhejiang into a dynamic and innovation-driven hub and make a meaningful contribution to the Nation’s technological innovation and cultural tourism development.   ***END***

PolyU research project on climate-resilient coastal infrastructure supported by French National Research Agency/RGC Joint Research Scheme

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has received support from The French National Research Agency (Agence Nationale de la Recherche)/Research Grants Council Joint Research Scheme (ANR/RGC Joint Research Scheme) - 2023/24 Exercise to conduct an innovative project on enhancing the resilience of coastal infrastructure to mitigate climate change risks such as sea-level rise and storm surges. It is one of three projects awarded funding from among Hong Kong institutions. Global warming is seen to be leading to more frequent occurrences of extreme weather. In the face of this challenge, the project “Smart and Flexible Climate Change Adaptation of Coastal Infrastructure”, led by Dr You DONG , Associate Professor of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering of PolyU, has been granted HK$2.45 million under the ANR/RGC Joint Research Scheme for a period of 48 months. The project is being undertaken in collaboration with Prof. Edgar Emilio Bastidas Arteaga of La Rochelle University in France. Prof. Christina WONG, PolyU Director of Research and Innovation, said, “As an innovative world-class university excelling in diverse disciplines, PolyU has established extensive global partnerships for academic and research collaboration. With a mission to address complex global issues and tackle scientific challenges, we will continue to work closely with our partners to leverage our research strengths, drive innovation across a broad spectrum of cutting-edge research initiatives, and achieve a lasting global impact.” The funded project will focus on robust and intelligent adaptation of high-risk coastal building structures in Hong Kong and France to withstand compounded coastal flooding and sea level rise caused by global warming, storm surges resulting from tropical cyclones, and heavy rainfall. The intensity and frequency of these events are expected to increase due to climate change. A physics-informed data-driven approach is proposed to predict the occurrence and intensity of future flood hazards. Fluid-structure-interaction models will be developed to explore flood-related damage and failure mechanisms of coastal buildings in a life-cycle context. In addition, physics-guided deep learning will be utilised to develop multivariate vulnerability and risk models that focus on different building archetypes in the area under investigation and to form a framework for community-level vulnerability and resilience assessment. The research results are expected to generate technologies and knowledge that will contribute to the upgrading of climate-resilient infrastructure in Hong Kong and globally in the near-future. The ANR/RGC Joint Research Scheme aims to strengthen collaboration between French and Hong Kong research communities, and both basic and applied research proposals of high academic merit in all areas are invited under the Scheme. The assessment criteria include technical and scientific quality, quality of project management and methodology, global impact and the quality of synergies between the partners.   ***END***

PolyU-Hangzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute officially unveiled, deepening industry-academia-research collaboration

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Hangzhou Gongshu People’s Government held a signing cum unveiling ceremony on 7 November in Hangzhou, marking the official establishment of the PolyU-Hangzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute (the Institute). In order to promote Hangzhou’s innovation and technology development, the Institute will conduct collaborative in-depth industry-academia-research, leveraging the advantages of Hangzhou and Hong Kong in research innovation, smart cities, as well as industrial and international cooperation and innovation. The Institute will focus on key areas including Grand Canal culture and tourism, intelligent transportation and medical aesthetics, and will initially establish three research centres, namely the Grand Canal Culture and Tourism Research Center”, Intelligent Rail Transit Center, and Digital Medical Aesthetics Research Center. These centres will collaborate with Hangzhou’s key industries and university research institutes in the areas of information and internet technology, cultural tourism, smart cities, biomedicine and high-end equipment manufacturing, providing enterprises with a technological research and development service, striving to make Hangzhou a world-class smart digital and innovative city, and the world’s best city to visit. Witnessed by Dr LAM Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President; Prof. DONG Cheng, Associate Vice President (Mainland Research Advancement); Prof. NI Yiqing, Professor of Smart Structures and Rail Transit of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, as well as Mr ZHOU Hong, Zhejiang Representative of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council; Mr FANG Yi, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Hangzhou Municipal Committee, Member of the Leading Party Members' Group of Hangzhou Municipal Government, Deputy Mayor of Hangzhou; Mr LI Zhilong, Communist Party Secretary of Gongshu District; Mr LU Wenge, Level II Bureau Rank Official of the Department of Science and Technology of Zhejiang Province; Mr LOU Xiuhua, Director of the Hangzhou Municipal Science and Technology Bureau, and Mr HUANG Fei, Member of the Standing Committee and Executive Deputy District Mayor of the Gongshu District, the agreement was signed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, and Mr SHEN Jianli, Vice District Mayor of Gongshu District. Dr Lam Tai-fai stated in his speech that Hangzhou is a city that integrates tradition with innovation. As a globally top-ranked institution with 86 years of history, PolyU will fully leverage its strengths in research, education and talent development to accelerate the industrial development of Hangzhou in the fields of Grand Canal culture and tourism, intelligent transportation and medical aesthetics, with a view to promoting technological innovation and facilitating the transformation of research outcomes to make greater contributions to the high-quality development of Gongshu district, Hangzhou and the Nation. In his speech, Mr Li Zhilong said that Hangzhou strives to capitalise on its advantages in technological innovation to promote urban development. The city is actively developing itself as a global innovation hub, talent pool and prioritised destination for technology transfer and commercialisation. Gongshu District will fully utilise its geographical location and resources, and environmental benefits to create a favourable environment for technological innovation. The government-academia collaboration with PolyU will definitely increase synergies between Hangzhou and Hong Kong to enhance the competitiveness of technological innovation and pave a new way for advancement. With its solid industrial foundation, Hangzhou has a sound innovation and entrepreneurship environment in the areas of internet technology, the digital economy and artificial intelligence. Going forward, PolyU will leverage its strengths in interdisciplinary studies, talent cultivation, research and innovation, and international cooperation to accelerate the sustainable development of Hangzhou and facilitate talent exchange between the two regions through the Institute’s innovation and technology platform.