News

Call for Applications: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27

We are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the prestigious Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS), PolyU Presidential PhD Fellowship Scheme (PPPFS) and International PhD Fellowship Scheme (IPFS) fpr the 2026/27 academic year. The application deadline is 1 December 2025. Nominated HKPFS candidates by PolyU to RGC will automatically be offered a PhD place with the award of PolyU Presidential PhD Fellowship Scheme (PPPFS), International PhD Fellowship Scheme (IPFS) or PolyU Research Postgraduate Scholarship (PRPgS). Successful candidates of HKPFS, PPPFS and IPFS will receive a comprehensive package that includes student stipend, tuition fee waiver, conference grant, cash award, and guaranteed university accommodation. For the detailed information on the scholarship packages, please visit the Graduate School's website for HKPFS. Application procedure: To submit your application, please refer to the “How to Apply” section on the admission page and follow the following steps: Create an account and log in to the RPg Admission System * Explore the RPg programmes: Contact the potential supervisor and review the admission requirements Prepare the required supporting documents and submit your application *Note: HKPFS applicants must first submit an initial application to the Research Grants Council (RGC) via the HKPFS System to obtain an HKPFS reference number. Then, submit your applications through the PolyU RPgAdmission System, selecting “2026/27 Semester 1 (Sep 2026 Entry)” and providing your HKPFS reference number. We invite you to join PolyU LSGI and pursue excellence in research with a fully funded PhD fellowship – Apply Today!

Delegation from Beijing Society of Surveying and Mapping Visits LSGI

On 21 October 2025, the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at PolyU had the honour of hosting a 21-member delegation from the Beijing Society of Surveying and Mapping. The delegation was warmly welcomed by Prof. Wu CHEN, Head of LSGI. The visit began with a fruitful meeting, during which representatives from both institutions exchanged insights on the latest managerial practices and discussed opportunities for future collaboration. The open dialogue fostered mutual understanding and set the stage for enhanced cooperation in the field of surveying and geo-informatics. Following the meeting, the delegation toured three of LSGI’s state-of-the-art laboratories: Underground Utility Survey Laboratory: Ir Prof. Wallace Wai Lok LAI, Associate Head (Teaching) and Professor, demonstrated advanced underground utilities inspection systems. Survey Store and Instrumentation Laboratory: Prof. Guo-qiang SHI, Assistant Professor, introduced a variety of cutting-edge survey instruments. Laboratory for Smart City and Spatial Big Data Analytics: Prof. John Wen-zhong SHI showcased the latest research outputs and innovations in smart city technologies. The visit provided an excellent platform for knowledge exchange and strengthened the ties between LSGI and the Beijing Society of Surveying and Mapping. Both parties look forward to future collaborations that will advance research and development in the field.

New Book Published - "Definition and Realization of Height Systems in Terrestrial and Planetary Science Applications"

We are pleased to announce the publication of a new book titled "Definition and Realization of Height Systems in Terrestrial and Planetary Science Applications" by Prof. Robert TENZER, Associate Professor from the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and Dr. Wei CHEN at Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, China. This book has been published by Science Press. This comprehensive work offers an in-depth overview of the theory of heights, covering following topics: Coordinate Systems and Transformations Gravity Field Quantities Theory of Heights Geoid-to-Quasigeoid Separation Height Systems in Planetary Geodesy Molodensky’s Concept in Planetary Geodesy Terrestrial and Planetary Gravity Maps The book serves scientists and professionals working in the physical geodesy field, particularly focusing on the theoretical definition and practical realization of geodetic vertical datums as well as the vertical datum unification. It also provides useful reading material for university teachers and students in the broader areas of gravimetric geodesy and geophysics. 

LSGI Scholars Ranked Among the World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientists by Stanford University (2025)

Seven academic staff members from Department of Land Surveying and Geo-informatics (LSGI), including Prof. John Wenzhong SHI, Prof. Qihao WENG, Prof. Jianli CHEN, Prof. Charles Man Sing WONG, Prof. Bo WU, Prof. Joseph AWANGE, and Prof. Xiaolin ZHU, have been ranked among the World’s Top 2% most-cited scientists in career-long and single-year categories, according to the Stanford University list released on 19 September 2025. The database categorized scientists into 22 subject fields and 174 sub-fields. It has taken their research publications into consideration, including information on citations, individual’s scientific research output, co-authorship and a composite indicator. For further details, please refer to the latest database here. We extend our sincere congratulations to our esteemed scholars for their exceptional accomplishments!   Career-long Data Name of Researcher Subject Field Prof. John Wenzhong SHI Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Qihao WENG Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Jianli CHEN Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences Prof. Joseph AWANGE Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Xiaolin ZHU Geological and Geomatics Engineering Single Recent Year Data Name of Researcher Subject Field Prof. John Wenzhong SHI Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Qihao WENG Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Jianli CHEN Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences Prof. Charles Man Sing WONG Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Bo WU Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Joseph AWANGE Geological and Geomatics Engineering Prof. Xiaolin ZHU Geological and Geomatics Engineering

LSGI Researchers Develop Advanced Technologies for Underground Utilities Inspection

Ir Prof. Wallace Wai Lok LAI, Associate Head (Teaching) and Professor at the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-informatics (LSGI), and his research team have leveraged advanced underground exploration technologies to develop underground utilities inspection systems that support early detection of urban infrastructure anomalies, including voids and pipe leakages, for enhanced urban management.   Press Release: English - https://polyu.me/46xOdS4 Chinese - https://polyu.me/4nvg77q Online Coverage: Mirage - https://polyu.me/42mKkgq Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/488TXmD Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/3VIW896 Bastille Post - https://polyu.me/4o0IOsB HK01 - https://polyu.me/4pPsNYc

PolyU Info Day 2025

Attracting over 43,000 visitors, PolyU Info Day on 27th October 2025 held at the campus was a major success. The Department of Land Surveying & Geo-Informatics (LSGI) showcased its cutting-edge programmes and facilities to future students. The event's success was fueled by the enthusiastic participation of LSGI academic staff, supporting staff, student ambassadors, and alumni. Throughout the event, the visitors engaged in a variety of activities, including programme consultations, BSc admission talks, alumni sharing, and guided lab tours. A special highlight went to the guided tour to HiVE led by Ir Prof. Wallace LAI, Associate Head and Professor, who shared his insights related to Hong Kong’s WWII history. Participants also engaged with an immersive art-tech exhibition showcased in a 4D CAVE. During the two BSc admission talks, Ir Prof. Wallace LAI and Dr. Sissi CHEN, Deputy Programme Leader and Lecturer, offered the comprehensive insights of the curriculum and the opportunities available within the LSGI programmes. Meanwhile, two LSGI alumni, Mr. Alan NG, Land Surveyor at the Lands Department, and Ms. Pinky LEE, Executive Director of Signature Consulting and Engineering Ltd shared their professional experiences on the career opportunities in both the public sector and private sector. Their experiences provided the visitors with a real-world perspective, helping them envision the diverse paths available in the field of land surveying and geo-informatics.

LSGI Scholar Received 'STEM Outstanding PhD Thesis Award' on Soil Drought and Climate Change

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Yamin QING, a PhD student in LSGI, has been awarded the 'PolyU PhD Thesis Award - STEM Outstanding Award'. Under the supervision of Prof. Shuo WANG, Dr. QING completed her thesis “Advancing the Understanding of Soil Drought Dynamics and Mechanisms in a Warming Climate”. Dr. QING's research addresses a critical challenge of the climate change. The sudden and severe droughts would endanger food security, water resources, and livelihoods. These rapidly evolving droughts could develop within days, leaving farmers, communities, and governments little time to respond. She developed a new and reliable method to identify such events, enabling earlier warnings that can help safeguard crops, secure water supplies, and reduce wildfire risks. Dr. QING reveals that droughts are intensifying more quickly than previously understood, even in regions once considered as water-secure. The study highlights a critical and dangerous situation: sudden soil drying often precedes dangerous heat waves or leads to extreme floods when rains return. By understanding soil drought dynamics and its critical role in multi-hazard climate extremes, her research provides knowledge that helps societies better prepare, protect vulnerable communities, and build sustainable resilience. Congratulations Dr. QING!

PolyU Partners with Lands Department to Advance Geospatial Innovation and Smart City Development

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Lands Department of the HKSAR Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 12 September 2025. The partnership aims to drive smart city development and digital transformation in Hong Kong.    The MoU was signed at PolyU by Prof WANG Zuankai, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation), and Mr CHANG Kwok-fai, Deputy Director (Survey and Mapping) of the Lands Department, in the presence of representatives from both organisations. Lands Department representatives: Mr CHANG Kwok-fai, Deputy Director (Survey and Mapping) Mr CHU Siu-ki, Assistant Director (Survey and Mapping) Mr. AU Chi-ho, Tommy, Chief Land Surveyor (Development) Mr. CHOI Wai-man, Raymond, Chief Land Surveyor (Land Information Centre) Mr. YEUNG Cheuk-man, Danny, Chief Land Surveyor (Technical)  Mr. CHAN Ka-lok, Alvin, Senior Land Surveyor (Technical Information) The PolyU representatives: Prof. WANG Zuankai, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU Prof. CHEN Qingyan, Director of the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR) Prof. CHEN Wu, Head of LSGI Prof. DING Xiaoli, Director of the PolyU Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS) Prof. John SHI Wenzhong, Director of the PolyU Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute (SCRI) Prof. WENG Qihao, Director of Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Geomatics (RCAIG)   Welcoming the partnership, Prof Wang said: ‘From urban planning and environmental monitoring to disaster response and resource management, spatial data and artificial intelligence are transforming the way we understand and interact with our environment. By bringing together the Survey and Mapping Office’s authoritative expertise with PolyU’s academic excellence and innovative drive, this MoU will strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a global smart city leader and create a legacy of innovation and prosperity for our community.’ Mr Chang remarked: ‘This partnership combines PolyU’s research excellence with the Lands Department’s practical experience, marking a significant step towards modernising Hong Kong’s geospatial technologies. We will promote innovative solutions that enhance land administration efficiency and support the city’s smart development.’   Prof. CHEN Wu, Head and Chair Professor of LSGI, emphasized the significance of the partnership, “SMO possesses valuable datasets, regulatory frameworks and practical insights into urban challenges, while PolyU contributes cutting-edge research, technical expertise, and innovative solutions. By working together, we can bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that scientific advancements are effectively translated into real-world applications. Ultimately, this collaboration will accelerate the creation of a smarter, more sustainable Hong Kong by leveraging the strengths of both sectors to address complex urban issues and improve the quality of life for citizens.”   Under the MoU, four PolyU units — LSGI, RILS, SCRI and RCAIG — will collaborate with the Survey and Mapping Office (SMO) on research, education and knowledge exchange in land surveying, geographic information systems, remote sensing, smart city applications, AI and location-based technologies. The parties plan to establish a joint research centre. PolyU will contribute personnel and technical resources, while SMO will provide professional and industry insights. The collaboration will also explore training for industry practitioners and relevant government staff on the latest surveying and geospatial technologies.   This MoU underscores PolyU’s commitment to impactful research and further strengthens Hong Kong’s leadership in geomatics and smart city development.

LSGI Scholar Highlights Preserving Hong Kong's WWII Heritage in Nanfang Daily

Professor Lai Wai-lok, Associate Head (Teaching) of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) was recently interviewed by Nanfang Daily to share his project, "Unfolding Hong Kong's Lost World War II Heritage". A key focus of the project is creating immersive experiences for the public. Using advanced technologies like global navigation satellite systems and ground-based laser scanning, the team has developed 3D models that transport viewers back in time to these historical sites. “When you walk into this immersive image, it’s like being on a battlefield and experiencing history firsthand,” Lai explained. He believes that when young people see these historical sites in a tangible way, it will spark their curiosity and encourage them to ask questions about the past. “This is a good start,” he remarked, emphasizing the collective responsibility to keep history from being forgotten. Professor Lai concluded the interview by stressing the urgency of documenting these relics before they disappear entirely. “We are not doing science for science, but for inheritance,” he stated, reaffirming the project's commitment to preserving Hong Kong’s rich historical legacy. Click here for more details of the interview.

LSGI Student won ESRI Young Scholars Award 2025

Congratulations to the PolyU LSGI student - Mr. TONG Lai Yiu Jimmy has won the Esri Young Scholars Award 2025 (Individual Application). The Eris Young Scholars Award 2025 is a competition aimed at recognising exemplary work in geospatial sciences and the creative use of applications for a smarter Hong Kong.  The awarded project titled “Assessing Rooftop Solar Energy Potentials in Hong Kong” aims to enhance rooftop solar energy assessment in Hong Kong by developing a GIS-based framework and algorithms to improve the accuracy of estimation models. It investigates the spatial-temporal patterns of solar energy potential across different districts and land-use categories, as well as the influence of cloud cover on solar radiation received by rooftops. Additionally, the research explores the relationship between rooftop solar energy potential and urban building morphology, including factors such as building density, height, and roof area. It also evaluates the benefits of rooftop solar energy in terms of energy savings, carbon reduction, and economic value. The findings indicate that over 90% of rooftop solar projects yield profitable returns, with more than 60% achieving an economic payback period of six years. This research provides valuable insights for promoting green building and sustainable development in Hong Kong. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement, contributing to a sustainable future through innovative research! For more information about the project, please visit Assessing Rooftop Solar Energy Potentials in Hong Kong.