News

LSGI Team Won the Championship at ACM SIGSPATIAL Cup 2025

We are delighted to announce that a team of PhD students from LSGI, led by Prof. Yang XU, has won first place at the ACM SIGSPATIAL Cup 2025 (GISCUP). The team—Mr. Guangyue LI, Mr. Yuxiao LUO, Mr. Shen LIANG, and Ms. Jinghan WANG—stood out among global competitors to earn this prestigious honor at the ACM SIGSPATIAL 2025 Annual Conference in Minneapolis, USA. The ACM SIGSPATIAL Cup is a premier competition in geospatial AI. This year’s challenge, “Human Mobility Prediction in Multiple Cities,” required participants to forecast complex mobility trajectories across diverse metropolitan areas. To tackle the challenge of adapting to various urban layouts, the team developed the “HuMob Predictor” framework. Their innovative approach combined a multi-level encoding module, designed to capture intricate urban structures, with an incremental training strategy that progressively learns from simple patterns to complex dependencies. The team’s solution demonstrated outstanding stability and performance during the official evaluation, setting a new benchmark for individual mobility prediction. This remarkable achievement underscores PolyU LSGI’s expertise in addressing complex spatiotemporal problems and advancing generalizable geospatial AI. Congratulations to Prof. XU and the team! Result announcement of ACM SIGSPATIAL Cup 2025: https://sigspatial2025.sigspatial.org/giscup/finalResults.html

LSGI Professor showcases how 4D Technology can preserve WWII History on TVB’s “Sunday Report”

Ir Prof. Wallace LAI Wai-Lok, Associate Head (Teaching) of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI), was featured on TVB’s program “Sunday Report” on 16 November 2025, demonstrating how modern technology is unlocking the secrets of Hong Kong's WWII relics. During the programme, Prof. LAI explained the importance of preserving these historical sites through advanced digital mapping technologies. He showcased a cutting-edge immersive 4D CAVE that allows the public to experience history firsthand, creating a powerful connection to the past. For more details, watch the interview here: TVB (19:04-21:45)  

The 4th Jiangsu-Hong Kong-Macao University Alliance (JHMUA) Academic Forum Concluded Successfully

The Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics (LSGI) and Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL) successfully organised The Fourth Jiangsu-Hong Kong-Macau University Alliance (JHMUA) Remote Sensing and Environment Academic Forum at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) from 29 to 30 October 2025. The event gathered experts, scholars, and student representatives from more than ten universities and research institutions across Jiangsu, Hong Kong, and Macao, aiming to promote scientific research collaboration, academic exchange, cooperative innovation, and knowledge sharing in remote sensing and environmental studies among the three regions. Prof. Charles Man Sing WONG, Professor of LSGI, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Environment, and Associate Director of the Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD), chaired the JHMUA Remote Sensing and Environment Annual Meeting. He facilitated discussions among representatives from alliance member universities, who joined both online and in-person, to deliberate on the consortium's strategic direction and future collaborations. During Opening Ceremony, Prof. WONG extended a warm welcome to all participants and reflected on the alliance's journey since its establishment in 2022. He highlighted the platform's vital role in strengthening the scientific and educational bonds among Jiangsu, Hong Kong, and Macao. The scientific program delved into the forefront of remote sensing and environmental science, covering critical topics such as climate change, air quality, carbon emission monitoring, geological hazard detection, and Earth system science. These themes were explored through a series of high-caliber invited reports delivered by renowned scholars, including: Prof. Guo-qiang SHI (PolyU) Prof. Xiao-lin ZHU (PolyU) Prof. Bo HUANG (HKU) Prof. Hui SU (HKUST) Prof. Meng GAO (HKBU) Prof. Fei JIANG (Nanjing University) Prof. Huilin CHEN (Nanjing University) Prof. Zhong LU (China University of Mining and Technology) Prof. Liang GAO (University of Macau) We extend our sincerest gratitude to all supporting organizations for their valuable contributions.

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!