As Issue 15 is published, our first course, “Healthy Life and Smart Living”, also commences. PAIR is dedicated to fostering a culture of interdisciplinary innovation through research and scholarship. We are happy to see our interdisciplinary efforts now expanding to education. Our brand-new initiative, the PAIR Advanced Education Programme, provides short courses to the public on interdisciplinary scientific topics that are related to daily living.
Offered in dual mode (online and in person) and designed for learners from all backgrounds, the Programme addresses some of the biggest societal challenges facing the world today and the solutions to these problems. We are already planning for the next course, “Sustainable Cities”, and further details will be announced in due time. We invite you to join our courses and share this valuable learning opportunity with your network.
Issue 15 presents a collection of compelling articles and important academy updates. In the Feature Stories section, we interview three leading scholars from distinct disciplines, who offer their perspectives on mental health research, photonics development and clean air actions. Prof. QIU Anqi, Director of the Mental Health Research Centre, explains how mental health diagnosis and intervention can be supported by engineering and data-driven approaches. PAIR Senior Fellow, Prof. YAO Jianping of the University of Ottawa, Canada, addresses the current development in and challenges facing the photonics industry. Prof. David PUI, also a PAIR Senior Fellow, describes how the giant air cleaning towers he designed help contribute to cleaner air in China and India.
This Issue’s Research Achievements section takes a closer look at studies at PAIR which bring unique insights into sustainability, cultural heritage and human health. The News & Events section summarises the latest knowledge-exchange activities, including international conferences, lectures and seminars, conducted by PAIR and its constituent units. The Knowledge Transfer section highlights healthy ageing technologies developed by PAIR researchers that integrate medical engineering and artificial intelligence. The People section reports on the recent achievements by our researchers, including recognition as tech leaders or best scientists in their respective fields.
Last but not least, the PAIR Advanced Education Programme is the culmination of a collective effort by PAIR research units. Gaining an understanding and awareness of societal problems is the first step in problem-solving. Please stay tuned for news about our upcoming courses and join us on a scientific learning journey.
Prof. CHEN Qingyan
Director of PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research
