Three PolyU scholars honoured with iCANX Young Scientists Award

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to nurturing research talent and fostering innovation. Three young PolyU researchers were recently honoured with the 2025 iCANX Young Scientists Award for their pioneering work in advanced materials, wearable systems and healthcare technologies. The Awards were presented at the 2025 Hong Kong International Talent Festival. Seven PolyU scholars advanced to the Grand Final this year, showcasing the University's excellence in research innovation and talent cultivation.

Established in 2021, the iCANX Young Scientists Award is an annual award that recognises and honours leading young scientists worldwide for their exceptional achivements.  This year’s awardees from PolyU are:

Prof. TIAN Tian, Assistant Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, was honoured for his research project “Advances in Monolithic Metal-Organic Frameworks: From Development to Applications”. It aims to develop novel nanoporous material platforms that enable efficient hydrogen storage under milder operation conditions. This innovative approach addresses traditional challenges in hydrogen storage systems, providing a safer and more cost-effective solution.

Prof. MA Yuan, Assistant Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, received recgonition for his project “Sensation by Design: Tailoring Friction for Next-Gen Human-Machine Synergy”. His work revolutionises tactile experiences by leveraging predictive modelling and dynamic control of friction at the finger-material interface. This enables the design of advanced haptic technologies and interactive surfaces, enhancing accessibility, user experience and inclusivity in digital devices through adaptive, multisensory feedback and robust, environmentally resilient tactile cues.

Dr Man Ting AU, Research Assistant Professor of the Department of Biomedical Engineering, earned praise for her breakthrough research “Revitalising joints – In situ CAR Therapy for Osteoarthritis Treatment”. Her innovative Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) therapy targets senescence in osteoarthritic joints, offering a long-lasting, disease-modifying treatment to halt progression and revitalise joint tissue without the need for surgery.

PolyU’s young researchers are making their mark on the international research stage. Prof. WANG Zunkai, PolyU Associate Vice President (Research), Dean of the Graduate School, Kuok Group Professor in Nature-Inspired Engineering and Chair Professor of Nature-Inspired Engineering, said, “These achievements underscore PolyU’s dedication to fostering world-class research talent. We are confident that our emerging scholars will continue to push boundaries and pioneer impactful innovations that shape a better future.”

Prof. Wang was also invited to deliver a keynote address at the concurrent Science Talent Forum to share his expert insights on the topic of “AI for Science.” Prof. Wang remarked, “AI has evolved from an auxiliary tool to a core engine for scientific exploration, profoundly reshaping research methodologies from theory to data analysis and experimental design.”

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