News

e-Bulletin Issue 174

Opening Ceremony and Forum of RICRI gathers cross-sector experts to promote infrastructure resilience against climate change

The Otto Poon Research Institute for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure (RICRI), a pioneering strategic research institute focused on global climate change, was officially inaugurated on 2 April 2025 at Hotel ICON under the witness of over 300 participants from PolyU, academia, government departments, and industry.  The establishment of the RICRI was made possible with the staunch support of the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation. Led by Prof. Xiang-dong LI, Dean of Faculty, the institute will collaborate with renowned experts from Mainland China and Hong Kong government departments, as well as industry partners to create an interdisciplinary research platform that fosters deep integration across sectors and research for sustainable development in Hong Kong, the Nation and globally. A Forum co-organised by FCE was held on the same occasion to explore a wide range of topics, including:  High-fidelity Monitoring and Prediction of Extreme Climate Events in Hong Kong and Surrounding Regions Monitoring & Adaptation of Civil Infrastructure Towards Resilience Urban Resilience Enhancement for Energy-Building-Transport-Water Sector Synergization (UREBTW) ToolBox Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Infrastructure Resilience and Water Disaster Management Resilience of Rural Infrastructure and Communities to Climate Change Intelligent Platform & Toolbox for Urban Infrastructure Resilience The establishment of RICRI further strengthens PolyU’s research capabilities in climate adaptation and infrastructure resilience, advancing the pursuit of sustainable development. Press release: English - https://polyu.hk/CyRHg; Chinese - https://polyu.me/4jaIwO1

FCE leaps to No.1 in Hong Kong for Environmental Sciences in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

FCE is proud to share its outstanding performance in the newly released Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings by Subject 2025. This year, FCE has made significant strides in the field of Environmental Sciences, climbing an impressive 19 places to secure the 27th position globally, ascending to 1st in Hong Kong, alongside The University of Hong Kong. The rankings of FCE in Architecture & Built Environment as well as Civil & Structural Engineering remain strong at 17th globally and 2nd in Hong Kong. The leap in Environmental Sciences is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Faculty’s academics, who have been instrumental in driving forward high-impact research and internationally competitive education. The uplifting news reflects FCE's commitment to advancing knowledge in environmental sustainability and resilience and strengthens its reputation as a leading academic entity on the international scene.

Inaugural Architectural Studies degree inspires future architects and ignites passion for built environment

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architectural Studies is set to launch in the 2025/26 academic year. This inaugural programme is hosted by the Department of Building and Real Estate (BRE) and co-hosted by the School of Design (SD), aiming to integrate the strengths of both units with the other three FCE departments. The focus will be on advanced technology, artificial intelligence, humanities, and sustainable design. Prof. Tristance KEE, the Programme Leader and Associate Professor of BRE emphasised the programme's mission to cultivate the next generation of architects who can leverage advanced technologies and innovations to support the growth of the construction industry. “Students will engage with cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modelling (BIM), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) relevant to architecture, construction, building materials, and building services, addressing sustainable development challenges in the built environment,” she shared.  The curriculum prioritises practical learning opportunities, including academic research, international exchanges, and internships. Prof. Kee highlighted that students will explore various fields within architecture, gaining insights into building design concepts while developing traditional skills such as Chinese architecture, architectural conversation, and green building practices. A mentorship scheme will connect students with industry leaders for professional guidance. This programme uniquely integrates knowledge and analytical tools, digital skills and transferable skills with design capabilities tailored to the architecture profession's needs. Looking ahead, Prof. Kee reiterated the commitment to quality education, indicating that the programme will seek accreditation from The Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) and Architects Registration Board (ARB). Graduates will be well-positioned for employment as professional trainees in architecture firms, construction companies, government departments, and organisations involved in urban planning and architectural development. The programme has garnered interest from international applicants spanning a wide range of countries, showcasing its broad appeal. Click here for full details of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architectural Studies.   Stay tuned for the exciting developments in our undergraduate programmes for the 2025/26 academic year, featuring the new Bachelor’s Degree Scheme in Construction and Environment and the Faculty Common Year One curriculum, which offer expanded admission pathways and greater flexibility for students! 

FCE Magazine - Issue 24

Chinese New Year Greetings from Dean of Faculty

Dear Colleagues, Students, and Friends of FCE I offer my sincere wishes for a joyful and prosperous Chinese New Year to you! May the Year of the Snake bring you wisdom, transformative growth, and abundant success! Over the past year, the Faculty has strengthened our support for both academic staff and students. Several funding schemes have been launched or updated to assist Faculty members in their academic and research endeavours. These initiatives are developed to provide resources for interdisciplinary research, distinguished lectures, the acquisition of large equipment, and competitive research grants. There are also scholarships and bursaries available to attract and support high-calibre students. We encourage all Faculty members to visit the FCE intranet to explore and make good use of these opportunities. As we enter 2025, I am delighted to share some heartening news about our academic staff’s research endeavours and exciting partnership with the industry. I am confident that 2025 will be a year of thriving success. Prof. Xiang-dong LI Dean of Faculty of Construction and Environment

FCE Global STEM Professors to lead two JC STEM labs for translating frontier science and technology into societal impact

We are delighted to report that Prof. Qingyan CHEN, Chair Professor of Building Thermal Science of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE), and Prof. Qihao WENG, Chair Professor of Geomatics and Artificial Intelligence of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI), will lead two newly established Jockey Club (JC) STEM Labs as the Lab Directors. Prof. Chen will direct the JC STEM Lab of Healthy Built Environment, dedicated to developing innovative solutions for evaluating and designing healthy and energy-efficient environments, with applications in airborne infectious disease control and thermal comfort in buildings, transportation and urban areas. The lab aims to set a precedent for sustainable urban development on a global scale. Prof. Weng will lead the JC STEM Lab of Earth Observations to advance Earth observation technologies by integrating space-air-ground sensing, AI-powered image processing and urban sensor networks. The lab will pioneer geomatics solutions that revolutionise urban monitoring and environmental management. The JC STEM Labs are funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust to support the research endeavours of distinguished scholars selected for the Global STEM Professorship Scheme and to nurture STEM talents in Hong Kong.

30th Congregation of FCE

Congratulations to the over 1,400 FCE graduates of 2024! This year, four separate FCE sessions of the 30th Congregation were conducted on 13, 14, and 17 November 2024 at the Jockey Club Auditorium on the PolyU campus. Prof. Xiang-dong LI, Dean of Faculty, presided over the ceremony, reaffirming FCE’s identity, values, and missions. He inspired graduates to cultivate a spirit of resilience as they pursue their dreams. Marking the 30th anniversary of PolyU attaining university status, Prof. Li encouraged the graduates to embody the PolyU motto and contribute to the betterment of the world in their own unique ways. Each of the four departments invited a guest of honour to share their visions for the future of Hong Kong’s development in the construction and environment fields, along with invaluable life lessons and mottos. Departmental session Guest of Honour Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering Mr Kwok Ying POON, JP Director, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, HKSAR Government Department of Building and Real Estate Dr Tin Cheung CHEUNG, SBS Chairman, Hong Kong Green Building Council Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Mr Tony YAU, JP Director, Highways Department, HKSAR Government Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics Mr Kelvin LO, SBS Director (Development and Works), Hospital Authority  

Workshop of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control facilitates interdisciplinary exchanges

The 2024 annual workshop of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Environmental Pollution and Control (the Joint Lab), hosted by FCE and the State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry (SKLOG) under the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry (GIG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), was held from 8 to 10 November in Zhuhai, China. The event gathered over 70 researchers and students from both institutions to discuss advancements in environmental science and sustainability. Prof. Xiang-dong LI, co-director of the Joint Lab and Dean of FCE, and Prof. Gan ZHANG, director of SKLOG, inaugurated the event by highlighting the collaborative efforts and history of the Joint Lab. The workshop featured a diverse programme, including 30 presentations from academics, postdoctoral researchers, and students from both PolyU and CAS, as well as dynamic discussion sessions. Key topics explored included the impacts of emerging pollutants, innovative waste and water solutions, atmospheric chemistry, and the application of remote sensing and big data in environmental monitoring. The Joint Lab, co-directed by FCE and GIG, exemplifies a strong partnership dedicated to advancing research on environmental pollution and control. In line with this commitment, the second day featured a discussion session that focused on identifying future collaborations and research initiatives. Overall, this collaborative workshop underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing environmental challenges and aims to foster greater participation in future workshops.

SHKP-Kwoks’ Foundation x PolyU Building Homes with Heart Scholarship Programme presents scholarships to nine outstanding FCE students to foster future industry professionals

This year, nine exceptional FCE students received scholarships from the SHKP-Kwoks’ Foundation x PolyU Building Homes with Heart Scholarship Programme to support their studies. At the award ceremony held on 28 August 2024, Mr Adam KWOK, Executive Director of SHKP, presented the scholarships to the awardees. Each student was awarded a scholarship of up to HK$40,000. At the ceremony, Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) of PolyU, and Mr Robert CHAN, Executive Director of SHKP and a PolyU graduate, shared their visions for academic-industry collaboration and nurturing future talents for the industry. The scholarship programme is an initiative jointly launched by the SHKP-Kwoks’ Foundation and PolyU in 2023. It aims to provide support to exceptional PolyU students, with a particular focus on those facing financial challenges, in their pursuit of studies in construction, real estate, or engineering-related disciplines. Click here to view the awardees list.