News

PolyU PhD Thesis Award 2023

The Graduate School is delighted to announce the result of the PolyU PhD Thesis Award 2023. The awardees have demonstrated distinctive research achievements through their graduating thesis. Congratulations to the award recipients and the honour is the recognition of their endeavours to advance knowledge with applications. For abstracts of the award-winning theses, please click HERE.

Graduate School Transferable Skills Workshop: Questioning and Interacting with Students

On 5 October, a group of PhD and MPhil students gathered for a workshop on effective English teaching, focusing on transferable skills of questioning and interacting. This event was jointly organised by the Graduate School and the English Language Centre, demonstrating the commitment to elevate learning experiences. The lunchtime workshop underscored the significance of thoughtful questioning and enhancing subject understanding through teaching. Skillfully facilitated by Mr. Daniel Barlow, engaging discussions were stimulated. Participants were empowered to lead discussions and exchange views through peer learning. Moreover, they brainstormed practical solutions to overcome the challenges that often impede effective teaching practices, deepening critical thinking, collaborative learning, and insightful interactions. The workshop catalysed a passion for effective English teaching and equipped these aspiring scholars with the necessary skills and knowledge to positively impact their future students.

Research Student Orientation 2023: Welcome, PolyU Research Students!

In the heart of a vibrant new academic year at PolyU, the Graduate School extends its warmest wishes to all new research students commencing their exhilarating study journey. The Research Student Orientation held on 30 August witnessed the participation of 370 PhD and MPhil students. They immersed themselves in the realm of research and engaged in insightful sharing sessions and dialogues with university management, student representatives, and academic staff. Extending a warm welcome, each student received a handy welcome guide and a thoughtful gift from the Graduate School. The orientation buzzed with energy. President Jin-Guang Teng, with his profound insights into the University's trailblazing development and unwavering commitment to research excellence, propelled students towards impactful discoveries. Professor Louise Cummings, Associate Dean of the Graduate School, provided a comprehensive overview of coursework requirements, study milestones, and ample development opportunities. Research students were illuminated with a clear research study roadmap and nurturing student support. Moreover, students received guidance on achieving a balanced study life and fostering meaningful relationships with supervisors, departments, and schools through a series of sharing. The orientation concluded with a spirited panel discussion featuring Professor Christopher Chao, Vice President (Research and Innovation), and Professor Louise Cummings. Together, they explored the common challenges of PhD students and shared inspiring success stories of researchers. As the new academic year unfolds, our commitment to providing seamless support and guidance remains steadfast, ensuring that research students soar to new heights of scholarly achievement.

Strengthening Global Research Collaboration with New Partners of Dual PhD Degree Programmes

In July 2023, PolyU signed two partnerships with Tianjin University (TJU) and East China Normal University (ECNU) to offer Dual PhD Degree Programmes starting from the academic year 2023/24. These new partnerships with globally recognised universities marked a milestone in PolyU’s research collaboration. Leveraging the institutions' academic strengths and international competitiveness, the programmes aim to cultivate talent in shared research areas such as Business, Engineering, Humanities and Science. The Dual PhD Degree Programmes foster research collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange between prestigious academic institutions. In an equally-split study pattern, students will conduct research at both universities and have access to co-supervision and advanced research facilities. Apart from benefiting from the academic and cultural environment at each institution, students will also gain a broader perspective on their research topics and develop transferable skills and knowledge for their future careers. The Programme is powered by partnerships overseas and in Mainland China. Students who successfully graduated will receive two award parchments issued each by PolyU and the partner institution.

International Research Student Gathering: Building Connections and Getting United

It was a momentous occasion for the Graduate School (GS) as we hosted our first gathering for international research students to connect and exchange ideas. The event brought together students from various continents, including countries participating in the One Belt One Road initiative in Asia, Europe, and Africa. The students experienced the diversity of the student body at PolyU and learnt about the strategic development of the international student community by PolyU GS.   The sharing session was led by Professor Cao Jiannong, Dean of Graduate School, who warmly welcomed the students. The students actively participated in fun ice-breaking games to win souvenirs and later shared their insights and ideas on student engagement and outreach with GS representatives in groups. They expressed their interest in becoming ambassadors for PolyU's international research community to offer their help and support.   The GS is thrilled to have hosted such a successful and enjoyable event and is grateful for the students' insightful contributions, which will enrich the overall experience of the student body. Through such initiatives, the GS promotes international student support and a global outreach network.   It is exciting to see a vibrant community of international research students at PolyU, and we eagerly anticipate more engaging events like this in the future!

Research Postgraduate Summer School 2023: Unforgettable Bonds and Inspiring Insights

The Graduate School (GS) is thrilled to wrap up an exceptional and eventful two weeks of the Research Postgraduate (RPg) Summer School from 3 to 14 July 2023. This year, the PhD taster programme tailored for senior undergraduates and master’s students, was held physically on campus for the first time, leaving a lasting impact on the 50 participants. With a diverse range of activities and an emphasis on enhancing research skills, it was a summer filled with knowledge, friendship, and growth. The journey kicked off with ice-breaking exercises and exciting team-building games, allowing participants to quickly get to know one another and forge a tight-knit community that enriched their experience during the course of the programme. To familiarise the attendees with our stunning buildings and the vigorous environment that surrounded them, they were taken on an energetic campus tour. This not only helped them navigate the facilities but also cultivated a sense of belonging and appreciation for the University. At the opening ceremony, the Vice President (Research and Innovation), Professor Christopher Chao, warmly welcomed the participants, while Professor Jiannong Cao, the Dean of GS, along with Professor Louise Cummings, Associate Dean of GS, introduced the framework of research postgraduate education and learning support available at PolyU. Their encouraging words motivated participants to make the most of this RPg Summer School, instilling a notion of pride and achievement. A series of visits to different Departments, Schools, research labs and the Industrial Centre and the Library provided participants with hands-on exposure to cutting-edge facilities and resources that PolyU offers to realise their research ideas. They were able to witness groundbreaking work up close, igniting their passion for exploration and discovery. One of the highlights was the invaluable insights and first-hand experience shared by current research students. They graciously spoke about their vibrant study life, rewarding overseas attachment, learnings from attending the PolyU Research Student Conference (PRSC), and provided application tips for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS). Their stories shed light on the paths that lie ahead for prospective PhD students, inspiring them to pursue their dreams. Another focal point of the programme was the arrangement of consultation sessions for participants to meet and seek advice from professors in their research areas interested. Participants also grasped this unique opportunity to have individual face-to-face meetings with potential supervisors throughout the event period for more in-depth discussion and the establishment of supervisory relationships. Some outstanding students were further nominated for a preliminary offer of admission to PhD programmes after the consultations. Throughout the programme, various workshops and seminars were conducted to enhance research capabilities and personal enrichment, expanding the participants’ knowledge. These sessions were intellectually stimulating, empowering the attendees to think critically and innovate. With their newfound skills, participants enthusiastically presented their research proposals and demonstrated their potential in research studies at the end of the RPg Summer School. The closing ceremony served as a wonderful conclusion and a moment of shared joy, as participants reflected on their transformative journey together. As we bid farewell to this year's RPg Summer School, we take immense pride in its success. The memories created, the bonds formed, and the skills acquired will undoubtedly shape the future of the participants. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to making the RPg Summer School an extraordinary success!

Introducing PolyU Research Postgraduate Studies to Tongji Undergraduates

The Graduate School hosted an introductory session on 12 July for second-year undergraduates from Tongji University in computer science and artificial intelligence. The students learned about the full spectrum of PolyU research postgraduate studies, including curriculum features, global exposure, research environment, career support, and scholarship opportunities. Participants gained an invaluable opportunity to visit advanced research labs and institutes on campus and explore the University’s innovative research projects. They experienced PolyU as a leading institution for cutting-edge research studies. Tongji University is one of the universities that collaborate with PolyU on dual PhD degree programmes. Students under the programme benefit from joint supervision by both prestigious institutions and enhance their academic horizons and global perspectives. In the Q&A session, participants expressed a keen interest in PolyU's research student resources and support. This marked the first step towards valuable contributions to their field and lasting societal impacts. A proactive approach was encouraged for participants to identify niche research interests and initiate admission discussions early with potential supervisors.

Outstanding Research Postgraduate Alumni Award 2023 Result Announcement

To recognise the achievements of research postgraduate alumni and promote the excellence of research education at PolyU, the Graduate School (GS) organises the PolyU Graduate School Outstanding Research Postgraduate Alumni Award annually. Recipients of Outstanding Research Postgraduate Alumni Award 2023   Professor LU Weisheng Wilson Professor and Head, Department of Real Estate and Construction, The University of Hong Kong Doctor of Philosophy 2006, Department of Building and Real Estate (BRE) Professor Lu joined PolyU as a PhD student in the Department of Building and Real Estate (BRE) in 2002. His PhD supervisor was Professor Shen Liyin and his research topic was about Chinese construction companies’ competitive strategies. After he obtained his doctoral degree in 2006, Professor Lu joined the University of Reading, UK as a Post-doctoral Fellow. He then returned to Hong Kong and joined the University of Hong Kong (HKU) in 2009. Professor Lu’s research interests focus on two areas: Construction Informatics: Building information modelling, smart construction, big data, and blockchain; and Circular Construction: Management, economics, and public policies. He is the leader of research grants worth HK$60+ million from various prestigious funding regimes. He is the author of two books and more than 200 book chapters and journal papers. He has been ranked as one of the Top 1% Scholar by Clarivate Analytics since 2017. Currently serving as the Head of the Department of Real Estate and Construction at HKU, Professor Lu is also the Director of iLab@hku, which has made significant breakthroughs in modernising the construction industry in Hong Kong and beyond. He has been the Associate Dean (Research) of the Faculty of Architecture at HKU. Dr POON Chi-kin Lawrence Head of Innovative Technology and CEO Advisor of Applied R&D, Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) Doctor of Philosophy 2004, Department of Mechanical Engineering (ME) As a leader of innovative technology and advisor of the CEO on the applied R&D in the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI), Dr Poon took the lead in the overall planning and development of ASTRI’s new initiatives in Smart City, Smart Mobility and PropTech R&D. Before joining ASTRI in February 2023, Dr Poon served in the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and Automotive Platforms and Application Systems (APAS) R&D Centre for more than 17 years and managed to grow the R&D team from 9 staff to 140+ scientists and researchers over the past 10 years. Under Dr Poon's strong leadership, the Smart City Division of HKPC and APAS were set up to steer the applied research activities and commercialization of R&D results in Hong Kong and Greater Bay Area markets with a focus on Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Smart Mobility, Electric Vehicles, Autonomous Driving, GeronTech and Metaverse. Dr Poon has won numerous international awards in these areas and he owns more than 10 patents covering a wide range of smart city applications. Recipient of Outstanding Research Postgraduate Early Career Alumni Award 2023 Dr WANG Lei Leo "Hundred-Talet Program" Research Fellow, College of Energy Engineering, Zhejiang University Doctor of Philosophy 2018, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) Dr Wang is a “Hundred-Talent Program” Research Fellow, Doctoral Supervisor, National Excellent Young Scholar (Overseas), and Humboldt Fellow in the College of Energy Engineering, Zhejiang University. He obtained his PhD degree from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) of PolyU in 2018. Dr Wang's research interests include sustainable waste-to-energy technologies, recycling waste into construction materials, CO2 sequestration and mineral utilization. He has published over 80 SCI journal papers in total (with 48 first author or corresponding author papers), including over 70 papers in the Top 10% journals, 5 Hot Papers and 20 Highly Cited Papers, and co-edited two books (over 5400 citations with an h-index of 47, Scopus). He has been selected as the World’s Top 2% Scientist. He has served as an Associate Editor for Soil Use and Manag., Editorial Board for 4 SCI journals, e.g., J. Hazard. Mater., and Guest Editor for 10 SCI journals, e.g., Bioresour. Technol. Applying research to solve real-world problems is always Dr Wang’s priority. He has developed the carbon-negative climate-smart biochar partition block which was awarded the Silver Medal at the 47th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva. Once again, let us extend our congratulations to these distinguished alumni who have embodied the transformative potential of research education. They represent the pinnacle of research excellence, and we applaud their outstanding contributions and celebrate their continued success as they inspire future generations of researchers to push the boundaries of knowledge and make a lasting impact on society.

GS Participated in the Education Fair of Guangdong Technion-Israel Institute of Technology

On 23 April 2023, PolyU Graduate School (GS) was invited to participate in the education fair hosted by the Guangdong Technion Israel Institute of Technology (GTIIT) in Shantou, Guangdong. Ten universities participated in the education fair. Ms Autumn Lin, Executive Officer, was the delegated representative to promote PolyU’s research postgraduate (RPg) studies to GTIIT students and graduates. PolyU's state-of-the-art research facilities, diverse interdisciplinary research topics, and world-class faculty impressed many participants during the consultation session. Participants also learnt more about PhD programmes and general admission requirements. Future collaborations between PolyU and participating partners were also explored. In addition, the GS also participated in the online career fair hosted by GTIIT earlier on 2 March. An overview of PolyU's RPg education was shared to attract top-quality applicants. PolyU is committed to providing students with world-class research postgraduate studies and focuses on academic excellence, career development, and international research collaboration. Learn more in the PolyU Research Postgraduate Studies Booklet 24/25: https://polyu.hk/pBidA

Distinguished Speaker Series – Design Driven Innovation

On 23 May, the Graduate School hosted an enlightening seminar under the Distinguished Speaker Series featuring Professor Shyhnan Liou from the Taiwan Design Research Institute (TDRI). With the topic of “Design Driven Innovation”, a diverse audience of students, staff, and alumni attended the event to learn from Professor Liou's extensive knowledge of driving social development through design and technology. Professor Liou began the seminar by prompting the question, “Has our society changed for the better?” Presenting vivid visuals and compelling videos, Professor Liou demonstrated the transformative power of design that enhances our daily lives and brings meaning to society. There was a campaign, “Design Movement on Campus”, which transformed campus aesthetics for schools at all levels in Taiwan to meet contemporary trends in education. He also emphasised the importance of balancing technology and humanity during the design process to create a human-centric and sustainable future. Participants engaged in an active dialogue with Professor Liou about design mechanisms and technology development at the end of the session. Many attendees expressed appreciation for the insights and inspiration gained after the event.