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PolyU launches advanced education programme, offering short courses to keep learners abreast of sci-tech developments

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to promoting interdisciplinary research to provide solutions to pressing societal problems.  In 2022, the University established the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR) with an aim to facilitate interdisciplinary research, transfer technologies to stakeholders, inspire innovation across disciplines, and collaborate with top institutions in the world. To raise the community’s understanding of interdisciplinary collaboration and its importance in driving positive transformations within societies, the Academy launches the PAIR Advanced Education Programme, to disseminate foundational and advanced knowledge in science and technology on topics that are closely related to daily living. The first course, focusing on “Healthy Life and Smart Living”, will start this fall.  This thirteen-week course, designed by PolyU experts in related disciplines, covers six applied science disciplines including: food and nutrition, sports, smart ageing, mental health, sharp vision, and Chinese medicine.  Through the course, learners will understand the overall landscape of some of the pressing problems currently facing the world, as well as PolyU-led innovations that aim to tackle these issues, and technology challenges in related fields. The course does not require learners to have relevant knowledge background and is particularly suitable to individuals who wish to broaden their understanding of interdisciplinary science and know about recent developments in science and technology.  The course is offered in dual mode, that is, students can choose to attend classes in-person or online, providing flexible learning options to interested learners coming from Hong Kong and abroad.  Learners fulfilling attendance requirement are eligible to apply for a certificate of completion. To encourage the community’s active participation in sci-tech learning, the first course is offered free of charge to eligible members of the public.  The course has received enthusiastic response since its launch.  Quota for physical class attendance is now full, while quota for online attendance is available on a first come, first served basis.  Course enrolment will close on 31 July.  For enrolment or details, please visit the programme website: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/pair/education/.

PolyU and Soy-Sky FarmTech establish joint laboratory for innovative soy research and functional food development

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Soy-Sky FarmTech Company Limited (Soy-Sky FarmTech) have announced the establishment of the PolyU-Soy-Sky FarmTech Joint Laboratory for Innovative Soy Research and Functional Food Development (the Laboratory).  The Laboratory is dedicated to advancing research on soy-based functional foods and promoting the translation of sustainable agricultural technologies. The donation ceremony for the Joint Laboratory was held on 10 July on the PolyU campus, where Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, and Mr Kenneth TING, Chairman of Soy-Sky FarmTech, exchanged commemorative souvenirs.  Other distinguished guests in attendance included Ms Clara CHAN, Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC), members of PolyU senior management and scholars, Soy-Sky FarmTech senior management, shareholders and industry partners. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, the Laboratory will conduct innovative research on soybeans and food development, support the industry in developing novel soy-based functional foods and related sustainability, and foster a “Healthy Eating and Sustainable Living” culture.  PolyU and Soy-Sky FarmTech aim to jointly advance the Nation’s agricultural and food technology sectors, extend research achievements to Belt and Road countries, and work together to build a healthier and greener future. Press release: https://polyu.me/44yUqw3 Online coverage: Mirage News – https://polyu.me/3UhF3C8 Hong Kong Commercial Daily – https://polyu.me/4nWDgAk (Chinese only) MeetHK – https://polyu.me/4542ULQ (Chinese only)

Towards the future of long-duration energy storage: Prof. ZHAO Tianshou of SUSTech on novel flow cells

Prof. ZHAO Tianshou, Director of Energy Institute for Carbon Neutrality, Chair Professor of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), China, delivered the 41st PAIR Distinguished Lecture titled “Flow Cells for Long-Duration Energy Storage” on 4 July 2025 on the PolyU campus. The lecture drew over 90 attendees in person and captivated an online audience of more than 15,400 from different countries and regions who watched the live broadcast on social media platforms. The lecture commenced with a warm welcome and an introduction of the speaker by Prof. WANG Shengwei, Director of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE). Prof. Zhao opened his lecture by stressing the critical role of energy storage in achieving carbon neutrality goals, particularly China’s pledge to be carbon neutral by 2060. He emphasised that future power systems will require energy storage solutions integrated across power generation, transmission and consumption, and the energy storage industry scale is projected to reach a trillion pounds. Prof. Zhao mentioned that grid-scale energy storage must meet three core requirements: safety and reliability, cost-effectiveness, and not being limited by site and resource constraints. He pointed out that changes in environmental conditions can cause fluctuations in renewables’ power generation, and this intermittency problem can last dozens of hours. As such, long-duration energy storage is the key to preventing energy curtailment and enhancing grid flexibility. Prof. Zhao advocated the use of “flowable energy carriers” (e.g., hydrogen, methanol, ammonia) and “flow cells” (e.g., electrolysers, fuel cells, flow batteries) to achieve efficient, long-duration and site-flexible energy storage solutions. He introduced the advantages, applications and challenges of two types of flow cells: “hydrogen storage technology” and “redox flow batteries”. Although hydrogen storage technology offers advantages in terms of high energy density, long duration, and no site constraints, its requirements for platinum electrode materials, as well as low-temperature, high-pressure storage and transportation conditions, have made the technology costly. Redox Flow Batteries are particularly suitable for large-scale energy storage due to their safety, durability, flexible storage duration, and detachable device design, but their high costs remain an issue. Prof. Zhao highlighted that the present core scientific challenge is to develop theories and methods for predicting and designing matched microscopic and macroscopic structures by understanding the interplay between surface reactions and transport within multiscale structures, thereby achieving synergy between reactions and transfer to maximise battery performance. His team employs an interdisciplinary approach, combining electrochemistry and thermofluid science to develop thermo-electrochemical theory, which has led to innovations in membranes and electrodes, as well as the successful development of a flow battery with a charge/discharge cycle life of over 15,000 cycles, the longest cycle life for flow batteries. Finally, Prof. Zhao introduced the concept of “e-fuel”, a clean, renewable, electrically rechargeable liquid fuel. E-fuel energy storage technology has no site and time limitations, and exhibits high efficiency and power density, scalability, safety and potential for economic viability. It represents an excellent alternative to conventional fuel cells. In closing, Prof. Zhao stated that his research aims to establish the scientific foundations for breakthroughs in energy storage technologies, enabling the widespread adoption of clean energy through optimised performance, cost and lifetime. Following the presentation was a lively question-and-answer session. The audience engaged in a productive discussion with Prof. Zhao. Please click here for an online review.

PAIR Video is now online

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) leverages its world-class academic and research excellence to develop innovative solutions for a more sustainable tomorrow. In July 2022, the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR) was established as the University’s central research platform dedicated to providing world-leading interdisciplinary solutions to significant societal challenges. Watch the video now to discover PAIR research units’ unwavering efforts in research and scholarship, knowledge transfer and collaboration, to develop impactful solutions that benefit Hong Kong, the Nation, and the world!

Prof. TAM Hwa-yaw featured in HOY TV’s programme on ultrafine high-sensitivity optical fibre sensor

Prof. TAM Hwa-yaw, Associate Director of Photonics Research Institute and Chair Professor of Photonics of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, was featured in HOY TV’s programme “Health Concern Group” to introduce the optical fibre sensor developed by his team. The ultrafine, biocompatible plastic optical fibre sensor can improve surgical navigation, monitor contact forces and reduce trauma during cochlear implantation, thereby significantly enhancing the procedure’s safety and precision. This innovative sensing technology is expected to bring breakthrough improvements to precision procedures like cochlear implantation. Prof. Tam’s team is collaborating with the renowned implantable hearing solutions company Cochlear Limited, The University of Melbourne, and The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, where clinical trials will commence next year, to promote the practical application of the technology, offering a “win-win” solution for health professionals and patients. Online coverage: HOY TV - https://polyu.me/4kobWYH (Ep. 373) (08:31 - 11:23) (Chinese only)

Prof. Sonata YAU writes in Ming Pao on link between sarcopenia and depression

Prof. Sonata YAU, Member of Mental Health Research Centre (MHRC) and Associate Professor of Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, recently penned an article for Ming Pao on the link between sarcopenia (commonly known as “muscle loss”) and depression, explaining the close bidirectional relationship between the two conditions. In the article, she mentioned that approximately 10% of Hong Kong’s elderly population suffers from depression, and several large-scale studies have shown that persons with sarcopenia have a higher risk of depression than the general population. An eight-year longitudinal study in China revealed that sarcopenia and depression interact with each other: individuals with sarcopenia have about 70% higher risk of depression, while individuals with depression have 50% increased risk of developing sarcopenia, thus forming a vicious cycle. Prof. Yau emphasised that consistent exercise, balanced diet and structured lifestyle can help improve the situation. She recommended the public to regularly engage in the following two types of physical exercise to prevent and reverse the problem of co-occurring sarcopenia and depression: Resistance training (e.g., dumbbell lifting, resistance band workout, squats): it promotes protein synthesis in muscle cells, helping improve muscle strength and mass; and promotes brain neuroplasticity, helping reduce depressive symptoms with noticeable antidepressant effects in the short term. Aerobic exercise (e.g., brisk walking, cycling, swimming): it maintains mitochondrial function in muscles and reduces muscle protein breakdown, helping to fight sarcopenia; and enhances cerebral blood flow as well as the secretion of serotonin and neurotrophic factors in the brain, supporting mood regulation. Online coverage: Ming Pao Daily News - https://polyu.me/3HTksBg

PolyU research projects win funding support from RAISe+ Scheme

The Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government has recently announced the second batch of projects selected for funding under the Research, Academic, and Industry Sectors One-plus (RAISe+) Scheme. Among the four successful projects from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), three are led by PAIR members. Inaugurated in 2023, the RAISe+ Scheme aims to provide funding, on a matching basis, for at least 100 research teams from universities funded by the University Grants Committee which demonstrate strong potential to evolve into successful startups. Each approved project will receive funding support ranging from HK$10 million to HK$100 million. Project Title Project Leader Project Description High-Speed 3D Stacked AI Vision Sensors Prof. CHAI Yang Associate Dean of Faculty of Science; Chair Professor of Semiconductor Physics in Department of Applied Physics; Director of Joint Research Centre for Microelectronics; Management Committee Member of Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems (RI-IWEAR); and Member of Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things (RIAIoT), Photonics Research Institute (PRI), and Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE) This project focuses on the development and commercialisation of an advanced AI vision sensor with high-speed operation, high dynamic range, and ultra-low power consumption. The sensor overcomes key limitations of conventional image sensors, particularly motion blur in high-speed scenarios. Key applications of the AI vision sensor include security surveillance systems, autonomous navigation, and motion analysis in extended reality devices and smartphones.   The sensor achieves high-speed, high-dynamic-range, and low-power imaging through the integration of conventional image sensors with dedicated visual information processing chips. Novel Nutraceuticals for Neurodegenerative Diseases Prof. Simon LEE Ming-yuen Cally Kwong Mei Wan Professor in Biomedical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Innovation; Chair Professor of Biomedical Sciences in Department of Food Science and Nutrition; Director of PolyU–BGI Joint Research Centre for Genomics and Synthetic Biology in Global Ocean Resources (RCOcean); Management Committee Member of Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation (RCMI); and Member of Research Institute for Future Food (RiFood) and Research Institute for Smart Ageing (RISA) This project develops novel nutraceuticals and drugs derived from natural resources for treating neurodegenerative diseases. It establishes the LifeChip technology platform, combining next-generation DNA sequencing, AI-driven discovery, advanced chemical separation, high-throughput in vivo screening, and synthetic biology. Focusing on neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, as well as neurological disorders including insomnia, depression, and anxiety, this integrated approach delivers a comprehensive solution for both prevention and treatment using innovative nutraceuticals with unique mechanisms of action. For instance, the development candidate Oxyphylla® is a first-in-class drug targeting α-synuclein, an emerging therapeutic target for Parkinson’s disease. Oxyphylla® is anticipated to become a disease-modifying therapy, offering a breakthrough in neurological health. Tunable Laser Chip Based on Metasurface Structure and its Application Prof. YU Changyuan Director of PolyU–Jingjang Technology and Innovation Research Institute; Professor of Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Management Committee Member of PRI; and Member of RI-IWEAR, Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports), Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD) and Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations (RCDSE)   This project pioneers a novel broadband tunable laser chip that, for the first time, integrates both a metasurface reflector and phase-change materials within a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser. This enables an ultra-high quality factor resonant cavity and dynamic continuous tuning of the output wavelength over an exceptionally wide bandwidth (40nm).   Compared to traditional laser structures, the chip not only features a more compact design but also achieves the same kHz-level tuning speed as leading international competitors. With the cost just one-twentieth that of existing market solutions, the chip is expected to achieve widespread adoption in battery monitoring systems, industrial production processes, autonomous driving technologies and high-speed optical communication modules. Press release: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/en/media/media-releases/2025/0620_polyu-research-projects-win-funding-support-from-raise-scheme/ Online coverage: Oriental Daily News - https://polyu.me/3FZoEPp Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/45va2Sk Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/44jUdfY Line Today - https://polyu.me/43OTu6y CCTV - https://polyu.me/4ehx1T9 Wuxi Daily - https://polyu.me/3Gat71H Science Net - https://polyu.me/43ULCjN The Paper - https://polyu.me/4klyyJr CHNM - https://polyu.me/3ZGc6D8 Sina - https://polyu.me/4ecyiL4 Guangzhou Daily - https://polyu.me/43Xn35V CMG The Greater Bay Area - https://polyu.me/3TQ4muV

PolyU showcases innovative research in AI and medicine-engineering integration at BIO International Convention 2025

PolyU participated in the BIO International Convention 2025 (BIO 2025) held in Boston from 16 to 19 June 2025. Showcasing its ground-breaking innovations and translational research across the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), medicine and engineering for global industry leaders, the University highlighted its interdisciplinary excellence and leading position in medical and health research. The world’s largest biotechnology convention, BIO 2025 brought together over 20,000 industry leaders and professionals from about 70 countries and regions. It embraced all key aspects of the biotechnology ecosystem, spanning from research and development, clinical trials and manufacturing, to investment, business development and commercialisation. Ten cutting-edge PolyU innovations in drug discovery, medical devices and diagnostics, biomedical engineering, rehabilitation technologies, optometry and food science were showcased at the Convention. Apart from presentations, the research teams also engaged in business forums and thematic discussions during the event to cultivate meaningful connections, forge strategic partnerships and explore new avenues for collaboration with global industry leaders. PAIR scholars-led innovations exhibited at BIO 2025 include: “PocNova™: Ultra-Fast Nucleic Acid Testing System”, led by Prof. Thomas LEE Ming-hung, Member of Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports) and Associate Professor of Department of Biomedical Engineering “Hybrid Robotic IoT for Telerehabilitation after Stroke”, led by Prof. HU Xiaoling, Member of Research Institute for Smart Ageing (RISA) and RISports, and Associate Professor of the Department of Biomedical Engineering “HAND-HEART: An AI-Based Hand Hygiene Augmented Reality Tool”, led by Prof. YANG Lin, Management Committee Member of Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion (RCTFF), Member of Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV) and Associate Professor of the School of Nursing “First-in-Class Antibiotic Therapeutics”, led by Prof. MA Cong, Member of Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation (RCMI) and Associate Professor of Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology “Novel Nutraceuticals for Neurodegenerative Diseases”, led by Prof. Simon LEE Ming-yuen, Management Committee Member of RCMI, Member of Research Institute for Future Food (RiFood) and RISA, and Chair Professor of Biomedical Sciences of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition “AkkMore™: a Fungus- and Plant-based Supplement against Obesity and Prediabetes”, led by Dr Gail CHANG Jinhui, Member of RiFood and Research Assistant Professor of Department of Food Science and Nutrition A special highlight of PolyU’s participation this year in the business presentation session was Prof. Ma Cong sharing his latest breakthrough in antibiotic therapeutics. Prof. Ma has led a research team to make a first-in-class antimicrobial drug discovery with a unique mechanism of action to tackle antimicrobial resistance. His innovative approach focuses on disrupting protein–protein interactions (PPIs) within the bacterial transcription complex — igniting hope for the development of new antimicrobial agents. Building on its robust foundation in medical and health research, PolyU is dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research at the convergence of medicine, AI, engineering, and data science, pioneering a new era of healthcare innovation, while also contributing to Hong Kong’s development into an international health and medical innovation hub. Press release: https://polyu.me/4nb0HFA Online coverage: Mirage News - https://polyu.me/4kYPUg7

Prof. LI Heng ranked nation’s top scientist in Engineering and Technology by Research.com

Prof. LI Heng, Associate Director of Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things (RIAIoT) and Chair Professor of Construction Informatics, has been ranked first in China and 21st globally in Engineering and Technology, in the 2025 Best Scientists Rankings by Research.com. The ranking is determined by a scientist’s D-index (Discipline H-index), which evaluates a scientist’s scholarly impact through discipline-specific publications and citation metrics. This international recognition underscores Prof. Li’s exceptional contributions to the fields of engineering and technology, as well as the profound societal impact of his research.  Prof. Li has conducted many funded research projects related to the innovative application and transfer of construction information technologies. His research interests include digital construction, smart construction, ergonomics and robotics. With an extensive research career spanning more than two decades, Prof. Li has steered the development of a diverse range of products, encompassing computer-aided drawing systems, construction planning and management systems, and sophisticated intelligent safety systems. In recent years, his research efforts have been intently directed towards the realms of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and applications in the Internet of Things (IoT). Online coverage: Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/4mVG3ct (Chinese only)

Prof. ZHENG Zijian featured in Sing Tao Daily on flexible electronics research for industrial advancement

Prof. ZHENG Zijian, Associate Director of Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems (RI-IWEAR) and Chair Professor of Soft Materials and Devices in the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, in an exclusive interview with Sing Tao Daily, expounded on the contributions of his pioneering research in the field of flexible electronics and the transformative impact it brings on industries. The feature underscores PolyU’s commitment to bridging academic excellence with industry needs, positioning Hong Kong as a hub for developing next-generation wearable technologies and smart materials. Prof. Zheng and his interdisciplinary research team have made significant breakthroughs in the field of flexible electronics, having successfully developed innovations that offer high permeability, stretchability, conductivity and electrical stability. These cutting-edge technologies hold promises for applications in diverse fields including new materials, renewable energy, health monitoring, professional sports performance tracking and biomedicine. Leveraging PolyU’s Technology and Innovation Research Institutes in Huizhou and Wenzhou, Prof. Zheng’s team is actively collaborating with industry partners in Mainland China to transform research outcomes into real-world applications. Such partnerships will further unlock possibilities for innovation in various sectors, fostering technological progress and industrial upgrading. Online coverage:  Sing Tao Daily - https://polyu.me/3ZqqgZ1 (Chinese only)