News

Prof. Marco PANG named among World Physiotherapy’s 75 Noteworthy Physiotherapists

World Physiotherapy, the international authority for the physiotherapy profession, represents more than 600,000 physiotherapists through its member organisations across 129 countries and territories. To mark its 75th anniversary, the organisation selected 75 noteworthy physiotherapists worldwide. Prof. Marco PANG, Member of Research Centre of SHARP Vision (RCSV), Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Head of Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, was among those selected. Prof. Pang has made significant contributions to physiotherapy education, research, and professional development, with a far-reaching impact both regionally and internationally. His notable achievements include leading the design and establishment of Southeast Asia’s first entry-level postgraduate physiotherapy programme (Master of Physiotherapy, MPT). Since 2022, he has also been ranked among the world’s top 1% most-cited scientists in rehabilitation by Stanford University. In 2023, he received the World Physiotherapy International Service Award (Research) and currently serves as Chair of the World Physiotherapy Asia Western Pacific Region Executive Committee.

Pioneering new frontiers in medical engineering: Prof. Jonathan DORDICK on scalable bioengineered heparin and magnetically controlled cell therapies

On 22 September 2026, Prof. Jonathan DORDICK of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, USA, delivered a PAIR Distinguished Lecture titled “Exploiting the Interface of Biomolecular Engineering and Materials Science to Generate New Therapeutic Outcomes”. The lecture attracted about 90 onsite participants and more than 14,000 online viewers across various social media platforms. During the lecture, Prof. Dordick addressed key manufacturing, cost and regulatory bottlenecks facing today’s biopharmaceutical industry, and highlighted the inherent vulnerabilities in the global heparin supply chain. As an essential medicine listed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for anticoagulation and cardiovascular surgery, traditional heparin production has long relied on porcine intestines as its primary source, making it susceptible to supply shortages and contamination risks. Integrating biomolecular engineering and materials science offers a promising strategy for developing safe, animal-free alternatives to conventional heparin. To achieve this goal, Dordick’s team developed an industrially viable, cell-free bioengineered heparin (BEH) process. By applying computational protein engineering and transmembrane domain truncations, researchers overcame expression and solubility hurdles associated with biosynthetic enzymes produced in Escherichia coli. Purified enzymes were covalently immobilised onto solid supports to biocatalytically convert N-sulfoheparosan into BEH and low-molecular-weight enoxaparin. Chemical analyses confirmed full compliance the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards, while the bioprocess demonstrated the potential for commercial-scale production, with annual output projected to approach 1,000 kilograms. Expanding into remote-controlled therapeutics, Prof. Dordick demonstrated how materials science can interface with synthetic biology to modulate cellular functions non-invasively. Mammalian cells were engineered to co-express the iron-storing protein ferritin and the TRPV1 ion channel. When exposed to alternating magnetic fields (~500 kHz), the ferritin core generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), activating neighbouring TRPV1 channels and triggering a calcium influx that ultimately drives the expression of therapeutic genes, including insulin. Validated both in vitro and in animal models, this platform further demonstrates the enormous potential of bioengineering enabling on-demand precision medicine. The lecture concluded with an engaging Q&A session moderated by Prof. WANG Zuankai, Associate Vice President (Research) of PolyU, during which participants engaged in lively and insightful discussions with Prof. Dordick. Please click here for an online review.

Prof. Nathanael JIN Ling receives World Young Aerosol Scientist Award 2026

Warmest congratulations to Prof. Nathanael JIN Ling, Associate Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Department of Health Technology and Informatics, on receiving the World Young Aerosol Scientist Award 2026 from the International Aerosol Research Assembly (IARA), in recognition of his outstanding contributions and remarkable achievements in aerosol science and technology. Prof. Jin is a member of the Research Institute for Future Food (RiFood), the Research Institute for Microbiology (RIM), the Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD), and the Mental Health Research Centre (MHRC). His interdisciplinary work is at the intersection of environmental chemistry, microbiology, toxicology, and data science, where he leverages scientific innovation to address pressing planetary health challenges and advance sustainable development. His research focuses on the impacts of air pollution on human health, the threats posed by marine pollution to wildlife health, and the challenges that solid waste presents to ecological health.

PolyU and Lands Department launch “Walkin’HK” app to promote inclusive mobility through spatial data

The Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS) and the Jockey Club Design Institute for Social Innovation (J.C.DISI) of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with the Survey and Mapping Office of the Lands Department of the HKSAR Government, have jointly launched the “Walkin’HK” mobile application.  Combining geospatial technology, academic research and social innovation, the project aims to promote inclusive mobility and serve the wider community. Leveraging the Lands Department’s 3D digital maps and over 240 datasets from the Common Spatial Data Infrastructure (CSDI) portal, “Walkin’HK” accurately analyses pedestrian zones and offers users a highly precise 3D urban experience.  Through an extensive 3D pedestrian network that incorporates barrier-free facilities, users can plan diverse walking routes and easily locate various community amenities using built-in spatial tools.  Beyond assisting people of all ages, including those with special needs, the app actively supports the Government’s “15-minute community” initiative, encouraging walking as a sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transport. In a recent blog post, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette LINN, highlighted that the Spatial Data Office under the Development Bureau is actively promoting spatial data sharing to support smart city development.  The CSDI portal currently brings together more than 1,100 spatial datasets from over 70 government departments and public bodies, making official geographic data freely accessible to the public.  The Office is also piloting the use of artificial intelligence to facilitate data collection and analysis, as well as the presentation of relevant information through map-based visualisation.  Furthermore, the Government plans to develop a new server next year to enable users to directly search CSDI data via mainstream AI platforms, thereby expanding the practical application of spatial data. During an interview on the RTHK programme Government and You, representatives of the Survey and Mapping Office explained that “Walkin’HK” can accurately assess walkable areas and surrounding amenities, offering citizens a variety of route options.  The app provides practical information such as surface elevation and gradients, identifies facilities accessible within a 15-minute walk, and categorises facilities to six major categories.  Ultimately, the application is designed to streamline daily travel and support Hong Kong’s development into a more liveable, walkable city.   Online coverage: RTHK - https://polyu.me/4y7Uq2u (03:35-04:47) Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/4xgVuQq Bauhinia - https://polyu.me/4xd2WvW Flaming Wheels - https://polyu.me/4xb7P8u RTHK - https://polyu.me/4gFEZIE TVB - https://polyu.me/469k5eQ CRHK - https://polyu.me/4r0xr6K Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/469k8Hy Hong Kong Commercial Daily - https://polyu.me/4cy4usS Ming Pao Daily - https://polyu.me/3SU9TDY; https://polyu.me/3Tc31ls Hong Kong Economic Journal - https://polyu.me/4cYUCsg Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/4xFO5Lg (subscription required) HK01 - https://polyu.me/4cuWdGb Bastille Post - https://polyu.me/4xGc6lv Oriental Daily - https://polyu.me/4h0kZ2q; https://polyu.me/4iglJ5I Orange news - https://polyu.me/4yn3Vug; https://polyu.me/4xKljtc Lion Rock Daily - https://polyu.me/4gU2gWc Unique Media - https://polyu.me/4A0m96y ifeng - https://polyu.me/4x8URby Bauhinia - https://polyu.me/4hd6xFh; https://polyu.me/4qXfAgV Hong Kong China News Agency - https://polyu.me/4iQ2Q9K Sina - https://polyu.me/4x7EJa3 Yahoo - https://polyu.me/3UF4fGi Infocast Financial Newswire - https://polyu.me/4xfAsRX Quamnet - https://polyu.me/3VfCGDC Stockfisher - https://polyu.me/4xaxL4g AAStocks - https://polyu.me/4yl3sZz Internet.com.hk - https://polyu.me/4xIZWsf

PolyU RILS delegation visits Yangjiang Laboratory to advance offshore wind innovation

A delegation from the Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) visited Yangjiang Offshore Wind Energy Laboratory (“the Laboratory”) on 12 September 2026 to deepen collaboration in offshore wind engineering and exchange views on technological innovation and the future development of the PolyU–Yangjiang Laboratory Joint Research Centre for Offshore Wind Power. Led by PolyU President Prof. TENG Jin-Guang, the delegation comprised Prof. DING Xiaoli, Director of RILS; Prof. ZHAO Xiao Lin, Associate Director of RILS; and Prof. YIN Zhen-Yu, Associate Director of RILS. The delegation was warmly received by Prof. ZHU Ronghua, Director of Yangjiang Offshore Wind Energy Laboratory, along with his team. During the visit, the delegation toured several of the Laboratory’s key research and testing facilities, including the Wind Turbine Blade In-situ Testing Base, the Major Equipment and Facility Base, the Offshore Wind Power Safety Research and Application Base, and the Complex Building. These facilities provide important support for the development, testing and safety assessment of offshore wind technologies, helping to enhance the performance, reliability and operational safety of offshore wind farms. The two parties also exchanged views on the latest industry developments, opportunities for future research collaboration, and ways to accelerate the practical application of innovative technologies. The visit further strengthened the partnership between the two sides through the PolyU–Yangjiang Laboratory Joint Research Centre for Offshore Wind Power (JRC). Established in March 2024, the JRC is jointly operated and managed by RILS and the Laboratory. Through resource sharing, collaborative research, talent development and technology transfer, the JRC promotes the development of innovative technologies and advanced materials for offshore wind power, while facilitating the translation of research outcomes into industrial applications.  

PolyU and BOCHK launch Hong Kong Climate Awareness Index

The Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA) and the School of Accounting and Finance at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with Bank of China (Hong Kong), have released a research report titled Hong Kong Climate Awareness: Public Understanding, Risk Perception, and Preparedness for a Low-Carbon Future. The report also introduces the Hong Kong Climate Awareness Index (HKCAI) for the first time as a composite indicator for assessing the public’s level of climate awareness. This composite index assesses three core domains: fundamental understanding of climate change, awareness of local climate impacts and comprehension of climate risks. With an overall average score of 74.67 out of 100, the findings indicate a solid baseline of climate awareness among Hong Kong residents. Crucially, the index establishes an objective benchmark for tracking shifts in public sentiment and informing future policymaking. The report outlines four key findings and recommendations: Disparities in Awareness Across Demographics While an overwhelming 95% of respondents acknowledge that climate change is occurring, awareness levels vary considerably. The lowest scores were observed among individuals aged 55 to 64 and those with primary-level education or below. Targeted outreach and public education initiatives will be vital to bridging these demographic gaps. Disconnect Between Awareness and Action Approximately 87% of respondents expressed concern about climate change, yet only 53% routinely take low-carbon actions. High costs, a lack of convenience, and scepticism regarding the efficacy of individual efforts were cited as primary obstacles. The government and relevant bodies should focus on lowering the barriers to sustainable living and actively communicating the tangible benefits of individual action. Policy Support Constrained by Affordability The public broadly views climate action as a shared responsibility across multiple stakeholders, with support for various climate policies ranging between 77% and 85%. However, when measures involve additional living costs, support varies significantly across income groups. Support among lower-income households (monthly income below HK$15,000) is 62%, compared with 89% among higher-income households (monthly income of HK$120,000 or above), underscoring the need for policy frameworks to balance social equity and economic affordability. Need for Deeper Understanding of Green Finance Although 87% of respondents are aware of green finance products and nearly 80% expressed an interest in using them, actual comprehension remains largely superficial. To translate awareness into action, the financial sector should provide clearer and more transparent information on product features, costs and environmental benefits, coupled with competitive incentives to drive adoption. Prof. WU Qiang, Director of RCESGA, Professor and Associate Dean (Research) of School of Accounting and Finance at PolyU, remarked: "Public climate awareness should not be viewed as a static figure or a fixed state. It evolves with personal experience, information access, and changes in policy and financial options. The value of this study lies in establishing a baseline for tracking these shifts, enabling future educational, policy, and market initiatives to align more closely with the evolving needs of Hong Kong society."   Online coverage: Oriental Daily - https://polyu.me/3SAOO1l Bastille Post - https://polyu.me/3SR5YYE Yahoo - https://polyu.me/4yrrsdB Quamnet - https://polyu.me/4xOI4w6 AASTOCKS - https://polyu.me/4cBEzjZ Money18 - https://polyu.me/4xXLNHu Stockfisher - https://polyu.me/4cxqy74 Infocast Financial Newswire - https://polyu.me/3UKdghl

Prof. Charles XU Chunbao elected as Fellow of Royal Society of Canada

Congratulations to Prof. Charles XU Chunbao, Director of Research Centre for Resources Engineering towards Carbon Neutrality (RCRE) and Chair Professor of Advanced Biorefinery, on being elected a Fellow of the Academy of Science of the Royal Society of Canada (RSC).  This prestigious honour recognises Prof. Xu’s outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to the development of transformative biorefinery technologies, with research impacts extending across multiple industrial sectors in Canada and beyond. Founded in 1882, the RSC comprises leading scholars in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and sciences.  It is dedicated to recognising academic excellence, fostering innovation and providing evidence-based advice and scientific solutions to inform public policy and address major global challenges.  This year, 105 distinguished scholars worldwide were elected as new RSC Fellows, with Prof. Xu being one of only three scholars in Hong Kong to receive this accolade. Looking ahead, Prof. Xu will lead RCRE in advancing transformative biorefinery technologies towards industrial-scale deployment, converting organic waste into high-value bioproducts and contributing to global sustainable development while accelerating the transition towards carbon neutrality.

How to Bring Neuromodulation Innovations to More Patients? Boston Scientific Executive Shares Industry Insights

PolyU PAIR and Cambridge NeuroWorks are pleased to welcome Mr Vincent SOURDAINE, Vice President of Neuromodulation for EMEA at Boston Scientific, as the speaker for the forthcoming joint online seminar on 29 September 2026 (Tuesday).  The title of his presentation will be “Neuromodulation - Access to Innovation”. Boston Scientific is a global medical technology company specialising in implantable devices and minimally invasive therapies that help physicians diagnose and treat complex cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, oncological, neurological and urological diseases and conditions. With more than 30 years of experience in the medical technology industry, Vincent has played a leading role in advancing and commercialising innovative therapies that improve patient care and quality of life across international markets. In this seminar, Vincent will share his perspectives on the evolving field of neuromodulation and the critical challenge of enabling access to innovation. While significant technological advances continue to drive progress in neurotechnology, broader adoption depends on improving patient access, increasing awareness, enhancing clinical training, and optimising treatment pathways. This keynote explores the gap between technological breakthroughs and real world adoption. Why do effective therapies remain underused? How can awareness, clinician training, patient education and procedure improvements accelerate access to care? And what role do industry, healthcare providers and policymakers play in turning innovation into impact? Drawing on his extensive industry experience, Vincent will discuss how stakeholders across healthcare, research and industry can work together to ensure innovative therapies reach more patients who may benefit from them. Participants will gain insights into the opportunities and challenges of commercialising neurotechnology, particularly in the field of neuromodulation, and the broader role of industry in translating scientific advances into practical healthcare solutions. The seminar will be of interest to researchers, clinicians, students and professionals across neuroscience, neurotechnology, biomedical engineering, healthcare innovation and translational medicine. The Cambridge NeuroWorks and PolyU PAIR Joint Seminar Series provides an international platform for researchers, clinicians, students and industry professionals to exchange ideas and explore emerging advances in neuroscience, neurotechnology and clinical practice. Cambridge NeuroWorks is a UK neurotechnology initiative led by Cambridge University Health Partners, United Kingdom, advancing innovation in neuroscience, healthcare and technology. PolyU PAIR is an interdisciplinary research platform of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China, driving innovations in advanced technologies and manufacturing, good health and well-being, and smart and sustainable cities. Event website: https://polyu.hk/SCOEh Registration: https://polyu.hk/OIXcD

Prof. HUANG Xinyan proposes novel autonomous firefighting emergency response agent integrating smart fire prediction and LLMs

A research team led by Prof. HUANG Xinyan, Associate Professor of Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), has published a pioneering “LLM-AI” autonomous firefighting emergency response agent framework in Engineering, a flagship journal of the Chinese Academy of Engineering.  The study presents a new solution for the future development of smart firefighting. Powered by a Large Language Model (LLM) as its reasoning and task coordination core, the system integrates the ConvLSTM-Fire prediction model based on artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) technology.  To overcome the constraints of manual data handling during emergencies, the system incorporates a self-driven mechanism.  It can autonomously translate users’ natural-language requests related to fireground conditions and emergency response needs into executable tasks, generate and execute code, and automatically debug and retry upon encountering errors.  This establishes a fully closed-loop workflow spanning data acquisition, model invocation, analytical reasoning, and result visualisation. Experimental evaluations demonstrate that even under extreme fireground conditions where sensor failures occur, the system maintains a prediction accuracy of over 97% for two-dimensional temperature fields and smoke propagation pathways, exhibiting exceptional robustness.  This research advances LLMs beyond conventional “static Q&A” interfaces, transforming them into intelligent firefighting emergency decision-making entities endowed with perception, computation and execution capabilities, thereby enhancing the usability and reliability of smart firefighting technologies in real-world fireground environments.  Moving forward, the team aims to incorporate multimodal sensory data, strengthen cross-scenario generalisation capabilities, and accelerate the real-world deployment of this technology in smart buildings and municipal firefighting. Prof. Huang is currently a member of the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute (SCRI), the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE), the Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD), and the Research Centre for Resources Engineering towards Carbon Neutrality (RCRE) at PolyU. Read the full paper: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095809926001244?via%3Dihub   Online coverage: Sciencenet - https://polyu.me/4yhr5Cj

Establishment of the Research Institute for Microbiology

We are pleased to announce the establishment of the Research Institute for Microbiology (RIM) with effect from 1 September 2026 as a constituent research unit of PAIR. RIM aims to become a world-leading hub for cutting-edge microbiological research, dedicated to addressing global microbial challenges that pose significant threats to human health, environmental sustainability, food security and biotechnological advancement, while also advancing the beneficial applications of microorganisms to improve human health. Prof. CHEN Sheng, Head and Chair Professor of Microbiology in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, will lead the Institute as Director. Prof. DONG Cheng, Associate Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) and Chair Professor of Cell Engineering and ImmunoMedicine in the Department of Biomedical Engineering; Prof. HUANG Jian, Chair Professor of Data Science and Analytics in the Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence and Department of Applied Mathematics; and Prof. ZHANG Weixiong, Associate Director of PAIR and Chair Professor of Systems Biology and Artificial Intelligence in the Department of Health Technology and Informatics, will serve as Associate Directors. Please join us in welcoming them and all members of RIM to the PAIR family!