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PolyU hosted technology matchmaking conference with Jiangsu province to strengthen innovation and technology collaboration

Research and Innovation Office of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Science and Technology, and Jiangsu Provincial Productivity Promotion Centre, successfully co-hosted the Jiangsu-Hong Kong Technology Matchmaking Conference on 15 April. The conference focused on four key areas: artificial intelligence, low-altitude economy, healthcare, and new materials. Nearly 100 PolyU researchers and representatives from the Jiangsu government and industry attended and engaged in dynamic discussions and exchanges. During the event, PolyU's leading researchers presented their latest research findings and showcased the university's innovative breakthroughs in a dedicated exhibition area. Over 40 representatives from Jiangsu Provincial Department of Science and Technology, Jiangsu Provincial Productivity Promotion Centre, High-tech Industrial Development Zone, and various enterprises also shared their industry collaboration needs, facilitating a platform for enhanced industry-academia-research cooperation. To accelerate research translation, PolyU established research institutes in Wuxi and Nanjing between 2022 and 2023 through the signing of Memoranda of Understanding. The collaboration advanced further with the commencement of Jiangsu Provincial Productivity Promotion Centre’s joint innovation service centre and incubation base. This initiative marks a significant step forward in the PolyU-Jiangsu partnership, laying the foundation for enhanced industry-research cooperation in the future. The long-standing PolyU-Jiangsu partnership stands as a model for innovation collaboration, advancing technology, industry and talent exchange while supporting high-quality development in both Jiangsu and Hong Kong.

PolyU and CSU.CAS sign framework agreement to drive innovation in international space technology development

Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), led a delegation to the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CSU.CAS). During the visit, Prof. Chao and Mr WANG Ke, Deputy Director of CSU.CAS signed a strategic collaborative framework agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation in advanced space technologies. The agreement covers various areas, including space manufacturing, lunar exploration, electronic information and artificial intelligence. It also extends support for the national space strategy and international space science development. PolyU has harnessed its extensive international research network and innovative technologies to make significant achievements in lunar exploration. Notable contributions include those to the Nation’s historic Chang’e-6 lunar far-side sampling mission and the acquisition of lunar soil samples from the Chang'e-5 mission, providing crucial technical support for China's deep space exploration. CSU.CAS brings strong engineering expertise in the design and development of space application systems and payload technologies to the collaboration, tailored explicitly for manned space engineering endeavours. Under the agreement, the parties will collaborate to develop a cross-regional scientific research platform that leverages their respective and combined strengths. This long-term collaboration will include a joint space manufacturing laboratory, extensive research projects, academic exchanges and other collaborative activities. It aims to foster international cooperation, promote talent exchange and nurture a new generation of highly skilled and globally minded scientists and engineers. Mr WANG Qiang, Deputy Director (in charge) of CSU.CAS warmly welcomed the PolyU delegation and remarked, “We highly value our partnership with PolyU, given its active involvement in national space missions and expertise in key areas such as space manufacturing, satellite remote sensing, information and communication technology, and artificial intelligence. By combining our respective strengths and resources, we aim to deliver research outcomes of international significance and drive substantial innovation in national aerospace engineering technology.” Prof. Chaoexpressed his sincere gratitude to CSU.CAS for its trust and support, and stated, “The collaboration between PolyU and CSU.CAS leverages Hong Kong's international resources alongside the engineering strengths and practical expertise of Mainland China, thereby unlocking significant innovation potential. Guided by our motto, ‘To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’, PolyU is committed to fully leveraging the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ framework to enable Hong Kong to contribute its unique expertise and perspectives in support of national scientific and technological advancement.” This partnership represents a step forward in enhancing scientific research collaboration between Mainland China and Hong Kong, reflecting a move towards deeper integration. Looking ahead, the collaboration will align strategically with national priorities, focusing on the integration of space science, technological applications and industrial development to propel the growth of China's aerospace industry.

PolyU and CITIC Group join forces to establish Interdisciplinary Mathematical Digital AI Joint Laboratory

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Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics visited PolyU

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) welcomed representatives from the Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics (SIOM), the Shanghai Municipal Talent Work Bureau and related organisations on 26 March for discussions on research innovation, talent development, and industry collaboration, aiming to enhance Shanghai-Hong Kong cooperation.   The plaque-unveiling ceremony for the establishment of the Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Laser Press was held at PolyU on the same day. Officiating guests included Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), Prof. LAI Puxiang, Associate Professor of the PolyU Department of Biomedical Engineering and Director of the Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Laser Press, Prof. ZHANG Aping, Professor of the PolyU Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Secretary General of the Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Laser Press, Prof. LENG Yuxin, Deputy Director of SIOM, Dr WANG Xiaofeng, Editor-in-Chief of Chinese Laser Press and Ms ZHANG Yuqing, Director of Editorial Department of Advanced Photonics. This marked a significant milestone in strengthening optics cooperation between Mainland China and Hong Kong.   During the meeting, Prof. CHAO highlighted PolyU's commitment to fostering research innovation and talent development. As the host institution for the Hong Kong Branch of the Chinese Laser Press, PolyU will fully utilise its scientific research and academic strengths to deepen regional synergy and further contribute to the advancement of optics.   Ms XU Hui, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Department of Shanghai Municipal Talent Work Bureau,emphasised Shanghai's support for collaboration between Shanghai and Hong Kong and expressed anticipation for expanded cooperation in various fields.   Prof. LENG provided a detailed overview of SIOM's research directions and achievements. In addition, PolyU professors shared their institution's remarkable accomplishments in relevant scientific research areas, focusing specifically on cutting-edge fields such as ultra-precision machining, photonics materials and technology, and biophotonics.   The delegation concluded the visit with tours of PolyU’s State Key Laboratory of Ultra-precision Machining Technology and the Photonics Research Institute, where they explored micron-scale processing equipment and cutting-edge photonics research. This event deepened mutual understanding and laid a solid foundation for future PolyU and Shanghai collaborations in research, talent cultivation, and university-enterprise partnerships.

PolyU and Amway (China) establish Joint Laboratory for Phytonutrients and Aging Research

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Amway (China) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of the Joint Laboratory for Phytonutrients and Ageing Research. Over the next three years, the parties plan to allocate dedicated research funding, jointly nurture postdoctoral researchers, and enhance the development of the health industry in the Greater Bay Area through the creation of a phytonutrient database and development of functional assessment models. Witnessed by Prof. Wing-tak WONG, PolyU Deputy President and Provost; Prof. CHEN Qingyan, Director of the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR); Dr Eric DU, Principal Scientist of the Research and Development Centre of Amway (China); andDr Clark CHEN, Senior Scientist of the Centre, the MoU was signed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), and Mr Johnson HAN, General Manager of Innovation and Science of Amway (China). Following the signing, representatives from both parties officiated at a plaque unveiling ceremony, marking the establishment of the Joint Laboratory for Phytonutrients and Aging Research. Over 20 experts joined this noteworthy occasion to celebrate the collaboration. Prof. Wing-tak Wong highlighted the significant potential of this partnership, given the growing demand for phytonutrients products. The Laboratory aims to leverage the opportunities for research innovation and commercialisation in the field, developing new solutions that benefit human health, science and technology, and the economy. Mr Johnson Han shared his company’s decades of research and market experience in phytonutrients, which will complement the work of PolyU’s exceptional research team. In the afternoon, Amway (China) representatives engaged in a series of professional exchanges with PolyU faculty members and students, including at the Frontier Forum on Cognitive Enhancement and Health Management hosted by the Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation (RCMI), which attracted over a hundred participants. Dr Clark Chen, Prof. Raymond CHANG, Professor of the School of Biomedical Sciences of The University of Hong Kong, and Dr Fiona CHEN, Senior Lecturer of the College of Professional and Continuing Education of PolyU, delivered keynote speeches on phytochemical mechanisms and interventions for neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, Dr Eric Du conducted a lecture for students from the PolyU Department of Food Science and Nutrition, where he detailed Amway’s experience in building a phytonutrient-centric research and development model for advancing the modern big health industry. Through this partnership, both parties will integrate their strengths and resources to propel research development in phytonutrients, marking a significant step toward achieving a healthy ageing society.

PolyU and China Tower sign strategic cooperation agreement to advance innovation in low-altitude economy and next-generation networks

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and China Tower Corporation Limited (China Tower) have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to advance key research areas, including the low-altitude economy and next-generation network technologies. By fostering in-depth cooperation to promote technological innovation and translate research outcomes, this collaboration will accelerate the new quality productive forces in these pivotal sectors. Witnessed by Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President and Mr ZHANG Zhiyong, Chairman of China Tower, the agreement was signed by Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Mr CHEN Li, General Manager of China Tower, with the aim of establishing a robust and enduring framework for collaborative research and innovation, talent nurturing, and the translation of research outcomes. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng underscored PolyU’s leading role in low-altitude economy research, marked by the establishment last year of the Research Centre for Low Altitude Economy and the launch in the new academic year of a Master’s programme in Low Altitude Economy, along with the University’s internationally recognised expertise in data science, artificial intelligence and computer science. This partnership will integrate the University’s academic strengths and China Tower’s industry leadership to drive impactful research, build innovative platforms, facilitate effective technology transfer and cultivate highly skilled professionals, thereby contributing to the Nation’s high-quality development goals. Mr Zhang Zhiyong emphasised China Tower’s commitment to innovation-driven growth as the world’s largest telecommunications infrastructure service provider. By sharing resources and pursuing shared goals, China Tower aims to enhance its core competitiveness. This collaboration with PolyU will leverage the strengths of both parties to create a mutually beneficial partnership. With a focus on the low-altitude economy and next-generation networks, the cooperation seeks to generate strong synergy and ensure the effective implementation of this agreement through consistent communication and exchange. The collaboration marks a new chapter in the partnership between PolyU and China Tower. By combining efforts, the parties aim to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes and make contributions to new quality productive forces, advancing technological innovation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and beyond.

Geely Holding Delegation visits PolyU

A delegation from Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co., Ltd.  (Geely Holding) visited The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) on 26 February. Both parties engaged in in-depth discussions on scientific research collaboration and talent cultivation. Prof. DONG Cheng, Associate Vice President (Mainland Research Advancement) of PolyU, introduced the university's outstanding achievements in academic research, technological innovation, and the collaboration between industry, academia, and research. Meanwhile, Mr. REN Xiangfei, Executive Vice President of the Geely Research Institute, provided a comprehensive overview of Geely Group's current development, future strategies, and key technologies driving automotive advancement. During the meeting, Ir Prof. CHAN Ching-chuen, Distinguished Chair Professor of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering of PolyU, Prof. YANG Hongxia, Associate Dean (Global Engagement) of the Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences of PolyU, and Prof. ZHAO Haitao, Professor of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering of PolyU, presented their research on electric vehicle, large language models, and smart manufacturing, showcasing PolyU's leading research in these vital fields.  Following the meeting, the delegation visited the Research Centre for Electric Vehicles and explored the university's research facilities and achievements. This visit provided an excellent platform for communications between Geely Holdingand PolyU, establishing a solid foundation for future collaborations and contributing to the high-quality development of China’s automotive industry.

Visit by Shunde District delegation

A delegation from Shunde District visited PolyU on 24 February to engage in industry-academia-research exchanges, aiming to fostering collaboration in research projects, technological innovation and transfer, as well as joint talent development initiatives. Prof. DONG Cheng, Associate Vice President (Mainland Research Advancement) and Chair Professor of Cell Engineering and ImmunoMedicine in the Department of Biomedical Engineering of PolyU warmly welcomed the delegation. He highlighted PolyU's remarkable achievements in research, innovation, and industry-academia collaboration, emphasizing its commitment to transforming research into practical solutions and applications for sustainable societal and economic development. Several PolyU scholars also shared the latest research progress in their respective faculties, and explored potential industrial applications. Prof. Henry DUH, Associate Dean (Global & Industry Engagement) of the School of Design and Director of Research Centre for Art and Culture Technology, explained how artificial intelligence is empowering the cultural and creative industries, driving cross-disciplinary innovation; Prof. LIU Yan, Associate Professor of the Department of Computing, introduced the newly established Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences and shared how artificial intelligence and human-machine interaction technology are being used to analyse and improve personal stress resistance and performance; Prof. Hailong HUANG, Assistant Professor of the Department of Aeronautical and Aviation Engineering,discussed how perception modules and cutting-edge sensor technology contribute to the development of the low-altitude industry and its potential economic applications. Both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on topics such as robotics technology and talent cultivation, expressing interest in collaborative initiatives.  The delegation also visited PolyU's State Key Laboratory of Ultra-precision Machining Technology to explore its cutting-edge scientific research and advanced laboratory facilities. PolyU will continue to leverage its advantages in academic and technological innovation, join forces with the Shunde District to promote the transformation of R&D achievements and talent cultivation, and support the high-quality development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.  

PolyU signs MoU with Peking University Health Science Center to foster medical technology research and development of interdisciplinary medical disciplines

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore collaboration in the field of medical technology, including joint research projects and academic exchanges. Leveraging the research capability and academic resources of the PolyU Faculty of Health and Social Sciences and PKUHSC Institute of Medical Technology, this collaboration aspires to promote the development of interdisciplinary medical disciplines and advance medical technology. The MoU was signed by Prof. Wing-tak WONG, PolyU Deputy President and Provost, and Prof. WANG Jiadong, Vice President of PKUHSC. Mr Ben LAU, PolyU Associate Vice President (Campus Development and Facilities); Prof. David SHUM, Dean of the PolyU Faculty of Health and Social Sciences; Prof. Jing CAI, Head of the PolyU Department of Health Technology and Informatics; Prof. YIP Shea-ping, Chair Professor of Diagnostic Science and Molecular Genetics of the PolyU Department of Health Technology and Informatics; as well as Prof. LIU Hong, Director of the PKUHSC Education Department; Prof. WANG Qing; Vice Dean of the PKUHSC Graduate School; Ms LI Xiaojia, Deputy Director of the PKUHSC Department of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs; and Prof. HAN Hongbin, Dean of the PKUHSC Institute of Medical Technology, attended the signing ceremony. Prof. Wing-tak Wong said that PolyU was accelerating the development of interdisciplinary medicine and engineering, and this partnership would significantly benefit the two universities’ work in developing advantageous academic disciplines as well as their professional development. He anticipates further collaborative projects between PolyU and PKUHSC, particularly in teaching and research, to foster mutual learning, while also hopefully expanding the scope of their cooperation, including through seed funding for research, with the aim of making a meaningful contribution to the advancement of medical technology. Prof. Wang Jiadong applauded the previous preliminary collaboration between the two universities in developing medical technology-related disciplines and in enabling exchanges between faculty and students. He emphasised the importance for PKUHSC of joining forces with universities in Hong Kong and expressed his willingness to expand collaboration with PolyU through this MoU to enhance both universities’ development of advantageous disciplines and to forge partnership in research. After the signing ceremony, the PolyU delegation had in-depth discussions with PKUHSC scholars about potential collaboration opportunities in medical education, joint research and student training. Both parties introduced their respective universities’ education and research development, as well as their progress in developing advantageous disciplines. The PolyU delegation also visited PKUHSC Institute of Medical Technology Education Laboratory, Peking University Nursing Simulation Center and Peking University Third Hospital Clinical Training Center to learn more about PKUHSC’s advanced facilities for developing medical technology and its extensive experience in clinical education. With over 45 years of extensive experience in healthcare education, PolyU has trained over 52,000 graduates across various healthcare professions, playing a pivotal role in the development of Hong Kong’s medical system. The University offers programmes in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, radiotherapy, optometry, medical laboratory science, speech therapy and nursing. Supported by a robust team of over 1,300 healthcare-related teaching and research staff and equipped with more than 90 specialised laboratories and research facilities, PolyU has leveraged its advantage in medicine-engineering integration to advance healthcare technology. In addition to the collaboration with PKUHSC, PolyU has established partnerships with several universities and hospitals in mainland China, and is actively preparing for the establishment of the third medical school to meet the medical needs of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.

PolyU signs collaborative agreements with the China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute to advance research in AI, 6G, and Web 3.0

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute have formed a partnership by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) and a collaborative agreement. This strategic collaboration aims to propel the development of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), 6G and Web3.0, reinforcing Hong Kong as an international hub for innovation and technology (I&T). Leveraging PolyU’s interdisciplinary research excellence and academic expertise, and the research and development resources and experimental environment provided by the China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute, this partnership aims to integrate the unique advantages of both parties to propel fundamental research and technological innovation. In addition, a comprehensive talent exchange and training framework will be established, featuring a joint training programme for talents and internship opportunities for doctoral students. The aim is to nurture high-tech professionals who can meet the evolving demands of future technological advancements. The signing ceremony was held at PolyU on 19 February. Witnessed by Ms Lilian CHEONG, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President; Mr LING Hao, Chairman of China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited; Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Dr LIN Erwei, Chief Executive Officer and Director of China Mobile International Limited, the MoU was signed by Prof. LI Qing, PolyU Chair Professor of Data Science and Head of the Department of Computing and Mr SHEN Weizhong, President of China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute. Subsequently, a collaborative agreement was signed by Prof. CAO Jiannong, Dean of the PolyU Graduate School and Chair Professor of Distributed and Mobile Computing, and Mr SUN Lin, Vice-President of China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute. Ms Lilian Cheong commended the collaboration between the two institutions which is set to drive significant advancements in research and industrial development across key areas such as AI, 6G, and Web3.0. By leveraging collaboration between industry, academia and research, this partnership will inject new momentum into Hong Kong’s I&T development, and strengthen the connection between local universities and enterprises, fostering technological innovation and industrial collaboration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng stressed PolyU’s dedication to fostering technological innovation and nurturing skilled professionals in response to diverse global challenges. This partnership with the China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute can more fully leverage the benefits of academia-industry synergy. Both parties will focus on the advancement and application of strategic technologies, including AI, 6G and Web3.0, as well as on cultivating a new generation of I&T talent, thereby providing strong support for Hong Kong’s social and economic development. Mr Shen Weizhong emphasised that the China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute is committed to advancing cutting-edge technologies. This partnership will capitalise on the Institute’s expertise in technology application, industry influence and market reach to support PolyU’s translation of research outcomes, while also encouraging innovation and advancing the cultivation of high-end talent. Under the agreement, PolyU and the China Mobile (Hong Kong) Innovation Research Institute will collaborate closely in key areas of AI and Web3.0. In terms of AI, their focus will be on enhancing the development and deployment of large language models, improving task planning and problem-solving capacities, and driving the widespread adoption of AI across diverse industries. It aims to enhance Hong Kong’s competitive edge in the global AI landscape. In the realm of Web3.0, they will develop a robust and scalable distributed computing infrastructure to support large-scale model research and development, in alignment with Hong Kong government policies to harness blockchain technology. In addition, this partnership will drive innovation and transformation within the local financial industry, enhancing Hong Kong’s international competitiveness and solidifying its pioneering position in adoption of Web3.0 technologies. Further expanding the scope of their collaboration, the two parties, along with China Mobile Hong Kong, will also explore the potential of satellite-integrated precise positioning and low-altitude economic applications by utilising 5G networks to enhance high-precision positioning capabilities. This collaboration aims to support the development of Hong Kong’s smart city infrastructure and propel the growth of innovation across related industries. This partnership is of great significance, as it not only catalyses Hong Kong’s I&T development, but also promotes Hong Kong-Mainland integration, opening a new chapter of development for GBA in global technology industry.