News

PolyU International Research Summer School (IRSS) 2025: Explore PhD Studies at PolyU

This summer, talents from five continents, representing top-tier international universities, participated in PolyU's premier two-week PhD experiential programme, held from 29 June to 10 July. The Graduate School has introduced this year’s Summer School with innovation and technology themes addressing global challenges, including health and wellbeing, the interplay between artificial intelligence and human experience, and sustainable futures. Participants gained practical knowledge and skills through academic workshops and consultations, campus and advanced research institute tours, local excursion and a visit to the Hong Kong Science Park. This Programme offers a comprehensive experience, from engaging with the local city’s pulse to exploring the academic ecosystem and incubation opportunities.

PolyU Research Student Conference (PRSC 2025): Innovation for a Sustainable Future

The research student conference first led by a student organising committee and supported by the academic honorary and advisory co-chairs, concluded with enthusiastic applause from 2 to 4 July 2025. The event featured a diverse programme, including a 3MT® competition, keynote speeches from academic and industry leaders, panel discussions, a cross-university student forum, thematic roundtables, and a valuable networking dinner. Over 200 participants engaged in active knowledge exchange, all contributing to a vision for a sustainable future. PRSC showcased remarkable research across various tracks focusing on sustainability in the environment, economy and finance, health and well-being, and society. Participants, comprising interdisciplinary student innovators and global experts, illuminated the importance of building and applying relevant knowledge and methodologies for continuous societal growth. Professor Christopher Chao, Vice President (Research and Innovation), encouraged students to embrace ownership and pride in their development as critical thinkers and socially responsible leaders for tomorrow. This event sets the stage for a roadmap toward a brighter future—where innovation and collaboration pave the way to tomorrow. Check out the award winners: https://events.polyu.edu.hk/prsc2025/awardee

PhD Student Internship Opportunity Partnering with China Mobile (Hong Kong) and China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute

To empower PhD students to adapt to the evolving job market and enhance their professional career competencies, China Mobile (Hong Kong) (CMHK) and China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute (CMIRI) has become the Graduate School's first industry partners for the PhD Student Internship Scheme, launched in December 2024. On 12 June 2025, senior executives from CMHK and CMIRI participated in delivering recruitment talks on campus. They introduced their business focuses and research fields while fostering connections with participants. In these partnerships, students have opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary projects spanning artificial intelligence, wireless networks, cybersecurity, and big data. Through the Scheme, students can earn training credits* through internships at reputable companies or research startups in Hong Kong, Mainland China, or abroad, lasting from three to 12 months of full-time employment. Importantly, the internship duration will not count toward the normal study period, providing students the flexibility to engage in the internship without impacting their academic timeline. CMHK and CMIRI are now accepting internship applications until 30 June 2025 and 15 July 2025, respectively. For detailed internship positions and application procedures, please refer to: CMHK CMIRI *Three credits in the elective "GS6000 Research and Development Internship"

Entrepreneurial Science Talent Workshop Series #4

The Graduate School, in collaboration with the Industrial Centre (IC), successfully hosted the fourth Entrepreneurial Science Talent Workshop on 28 May. This session featured Professor He Mingguang, Chair Professor of Experimental Ophthalmology from the School of Optometry (SO), who showcased how AI-assisted non-invasive angiography is revolutionising eye care diagnostics. He demonstrated the transformative potential of this technology in enhancing patient outcomes and bridging research with real-world applications. Mr Jonathan Lee, Engineering Manager from IC, guided participants in harnessing cutting-edge AI tools and IC facilities to accelerate their projects. The workshop culminated in a hands-on trial of AI-assisted non-invasive angiography, giving attendees a glimpse into the latest medical technology. Continuing to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in our research community, upcoming sessions will explore additional opportunities for translating scientific discoveries into practical solutions.

Two URIS Students Awarded the Joseph Needham Merit Scholarship 2025

The Graduate School is proud to announce that Mr Allen Chen Zihao from the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology (ABCT) and Ms Kwok Hin-chi from the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) have been awarded the Joseph Needham Merit Scholarship 2025. Both are graduates of the Undergraduate Research and Innovation Scheme (URIS), marking a significant achievement as the first students from PolyU to receive this honor. Founded in 1979, the Joseph Needham Foundation for Science and Civilisation (JNFSC) celebrates the legacy of Dr Joseph Needham, a prominent humanist and intellectual of the 20th century. Through scholarships and other initiatives, JNFSC supports exceptional talents who advance knowledge for the betterment of society. Mr Chen's research focuses on human genomics and disease, investigating crucial links between genetics and medical science. Meanwhile, Ms Kwok specializes in AI-driven health solutions, combining data science, computer science, and innovative technologies to transform healthcare. This esteemed scholarship provides a generous four-year grant for postgraduate research studies at top international universities, enabling them to pursue groundbreaking work without financial barriers.

PolyU Welcomes Students from Harvard or Other Top US Universities to Explore New Academic Opportunities

In light of the abrupt changes in the global education landscape, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) will extend an invitation to students who have received admission offers from or who are already enrolled in Harvard University or other top US universities to consider PolyU as an alternative for their continuation of undergraduate or postgraduate studies. As a world-renowned research university, PolyU offers a unique opportunity to help these students achieve their academic goals in a vibrant and supportive environment. We provide a diverse range of internationally recognised undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, carefully designed to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to succeed in their chosen field. Our multicultural campus is a thriving hub of academic excellence, creativity, and personal growth, where students from around the world come together to learn, innovate, and thrive. PolyU is dedicated to facilitating the swift transition of the interested students. For more information, please contact the Academic Registry at ar.intl@polyu.edu.hk.

Celebrating Academic Excellence at the 31st PhD Congregation

On 10 May, PolyU hosted its 31st PhD Congregation (May Session) at the Jockey Club Auditorium. The ceremony began with an inspiring speech from Guest of Honour, Professor Wang Zuankai, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation). He shared his ups and downs during his research pursuit and encouraged PhD graduates to persevere through obstacles, as such determination can lead to meaningful breakthroughs. Graduate Representative Dr Alex Chan Siu-wing then delivered the valedictory speech, reflecting on his fruitful journey at PolyU. He emphasised the invaluable mentorship he received, his personal growth, and the importance of balancing rigour with resolve. Following Dr Chan’s speech, Professor Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, presented the Best Research Postgraduate Student of the Year 2024 award to Mr Fan Dingqing from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) and Ms Wang Haoqing from the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies (LMS) for their outstanding accomplishments. The ceremony concluded with President Teng’s address in which he articulated PolyU's vision of innovation and excellence. He congratulated all the PhD graduates and encouraged them to connect research with societal needs, driving innovation for a better future globally.

Editor Workshop at Nexus Forum 2025: Elevating Research Impact

On 8 May, the Graduate School (GS) co-organised the Editor Workshop at Nexus Forum 2025, an event designed to elevate research impact by connecting PolyU's research community with editors from top-tier journals. The workshop began with an introduction from Professor Louise Cummings, Associate Dean of the GS, who highlighted the importance of the School's Transferable Skills Workshops. These workshops are instrumental in enhancing RPg students' academic, communication, writing, and publishing skills, thereby equipping them for diverse career paths. Professor Jerry Yan, Editor-in-Chief of Nexus, reflected on the journal's first-year milestones and its unique interdisciplinary publication approach. Dr Alex Zhang, Chief Editor of Nature Energy, provided insights into what distinguishes research in high-impact energy publications. Dr Yuqing Lin, Scientific Editor at Matter, explained the publication process in material science, from submission to decision. Meanwhile, Dr Yuen Yiu, Senior Scientific Editor of Device, offered strategies for crafting compelling manuscripts and promoting published work. Last but not least, Professor Yingru Zhao, Associate Editor of Applied Energy, concluded the workshop with an editor's checklist for perfecting case reports, focusing on structure and technical presentation. Together, these inspiring sessions provided a comprehensive view of academic publishing excellence. 

Reflecting on Best Practice in Research Supervision

The Graduate School, in collaboration with the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, hosted a professional development workshop on 29 April, featuring Professor Rod Barrett, a distinguished Professor of Biomechanics from Griffith University, Australia. Drawing from his extensive experience in PhD supervision, Professor Barrett shared evidence-based strategies to enhance supervisory practices, offering valuable insights for research students preparing for future academic roles. Participants acquired tactics to enhance their supervisory relationships, fostering a more productive and supportive academic environment crucial for successful research outcomes. The workshop also delved into mentorship excellence across various disciplines, providing a comprehensive understanding of effective supervision that is essential for navigating the complexities of doctoral research.

Webinar on Short-Term Visiting Postgraduate Programmes

On 29 April, the Graduate School (GS) hosted a webinar introducing the visiting programmes for global postgraduate students. Professor Louise Cummings, Associate Dean of GS, shared valuable perspectives on how visiting students can thrive on the Research Student Attachment Programme (RSAP), highlighting the programme’s academic benefits and unique learning environments. Designed for international PhD students seeking collaborative research experiences, they can immerse themselves in cutting-edge research for three months to one year under the guidance of a PolyU supervisor, fostering academic growth and cross-cultural exchange. Professor Cummings also introduced the Joint PhD Supervision Scheme and other PhD taster programmes. The webinar featured valuable testimonials from current RSAP students, Mr Oleg Sautenkov from Russia and Mr Duc-Tuan Truong from Vietnam, who shared their positive experiences conducting research at PolyU and discovering Hong Kong. Watch the webinar recording: https://polyu.hk/kqJmO Learn more about RSAP: https://polyu.hk/rGLOg