News

Prof. WONG Ka-hing showcases novel selenium nanoparticles for osteoporosis management on TV

Prof. WONG Ka-hing, Director of the Research Institute for Future Food (RiFood) and Professor in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), was recently featured in an exclusive interview on TVB’s current affairs programme Scoop. In the interview, he introduced his team’s novel nano-mineral, Cs4 polysaccharide-protein complex functionalised selenium nanoparticles (Cs4-SeNPs), and its groundbreaking applications in osteoporosis management. Prof. Wong emphasised that selenium, an essential trace element, plays a critical role in maintaining bone health.  His team’s latest research demonstrates that selenium in nanoscale form can effectively stimulate osteoblast differentiation and mineralisation, thereby promoting osteogenesis (bone formation) and enhancing bone mineral density.  These findings highlight the potential of Cs4-SeNPs as a novel strategy for managing osteoporosis.  He further explained: “The unique structure of the Cs4 polysaccharide-protein complex not only stabilize the selenium nanoparticles, but also produces a synergistic effect to further enhance bone formation. This pioneering nanotechnology has been recently granted a patent.”   Online coverage: TVB - https://polyu.me/47ambvq (0:56 - 2:06)

Hong Kong’s maritime upgrading: Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung outlines four key priorities

In his recent op-ed published in Wen Wei Po, Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of the Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Head of the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, and Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics, argued that Hong Kong must comprehensively advance the digitalisation, smart transformation and green transition of its maritime sector, steering its evolution from a traditional “container port” into a high-value-added “value port”. Prof. Lai noted that, amidst intensifying international competition, Hong Kong should no longer compete solely on throughput volume.  Instead, the city should capitalise on its distinctive advantages under “One Country, Two Systems”, its common law framework, and its established financial ecosystem.  By focusing on high value-added maritime services, including ship financing, marine insurance, maritime law and dispute arbitration, Hong Kong can create complementary synergies with ports across the Greater Bay Area (GBA), evolving from a mere “transhipment hub” into a genuine “value creator in cross-border trade”. To realise this strategic blueprint, Prof. Lai highlighted four key priorities: Integrating Service Mechanisms: Establishing a consolidated service directory and a case-coordination mechanism to deliver seamless, one-stop maritime support. Deepening GBA Collaboration: Enhancing operational alignment, instituting transit-time commitments for river–sea intermodal transport, and promoting cross-boundary data interoperability and mutual recognition. Pioneering Green Finance: Establishing testing and pilot scenarios to advance carbon accounting methodologies and facilitate the financing and underwriting of alternative-energy vessels. Fostering Maritime Technology: Anchoring initiatives in the Northern Metropolis and the Hetao region to build an innovation ecosystem driven by the model of “R&D in Hong Kong, piloting in the GBA, and serving the global market”. Prof. Lai concluded that Hong Kong’s core competitive edge lies in its capacity to align international standards with cross-disciplinary expertise.  By developing a comprehensive maritime services ecosystem, Hong Kong can further strengthen its position as an international maritime centre while supporting the nation’s maritime industry in advancing towards high-end development.   Online coverage: Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/3VyGGPQ (Chinese only)

Boston Scientific’s Vincent SOURDAINE shares lessons on neurotech commercialisation at the final Cambridge NeuroWorks and PolyU PAIR Joint Seminar of the academic year

On 29 September 2026, Mr Vincent SOURDAINE, Vice President of Neuromodulation for EMEA at Boston Scientific, delivered the presentation “Neuromodulation — Access to Innovation” at the final session of the Cambridge NeuroWorks and PolyU PAIR Joint Seminar, exploring the gap between technological breakthroughs and real-world clinical adoption.  Co-hosted by Prof. George MALLIARAS, Cambridge NeuroWorks Scientific Lead and Prince Philip Professor of Technology at the University of Cambridge, and Prof. ZHANG Weixiong, Associate Director of the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR) and Chair Professor of Systems Biology and Artificial Intelligence at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), the online event drew over 15,000 live-stream and Zoom participants from 20 countries and regions, bringing together researchers, industry experts and members of the public. Opening the event, Prof. Sir John ASTON, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research of the University of Cambridge, emphasised that the seminar provides a platform for sharing ideas and building long-term international partnerships.  He noted that the seminar series had fostered new friendships and collaborations, adding: “Only by collaborating globally can we find the answers to these complex neurological conditions that are blighting billions of lives.” Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Christopher CHAO, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, stating: “Through platforms such as PolyU PAIR, we bring together expertise across science, medicine and technology to accelerate the translation of research into real-world solutions, while supporting technology transfer, university spin-offs and industry collaboration.” In his presentation, Mr Sourdaine shared his insights on the evolving landscape of neuromodulation and the formidable challenge of ensuring equitable access to innovation.  Citing Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), a mature, transformative therapy for movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, as a case in point, he observed that despite the technology’s proven efficacy, a significant access gap remains.  Although movement disorders impose a substantial socioeconomic burden and millions of patients worldwide could benefit from DBS, fewer than 10% of eligible candidates receive treatment. Mr Sourdaine argued that the primary bottleneck is not engineering complexity or device cost, but systemic delivery failures across the care pathway.  Bridging this divide requires four key actions: raising clinical awareness, expanding specialist training, empowering patients, and streamlining referral pathways.  Ultimately, he noted, true innovation is measured not merely by what is invented, but also by how many patients gain access to care. The seminar continued with a pitching session showcasing translational neurotechnology research from both institutions: Mr Jumpei KASHIWAKURA, Co-Founder of Neubond and Fellow of Cambridge NeuroWorks, presented a wearable device designed to continuously monitor vital activity and deliver therapeutic stimulation to aid stroke rehabilitation. Ms Caterina AZAIS, Founder and CEO of Aequa Nanotherapeutics Ltd. and Fellow of Cambridge NeuroWorks, demonstrated how her spin-out company uses nanoparticles to enable non-surgical, bidirectional neural interfacing. Prof. Georg KRANZ, Associate Professor of Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, PolyU, shared his research on Transcranial Pulse Stimulation (TPS)—a novel, non-invasive technique with emerging clinical evidence for both antidepressant efficacy and target-specific neuromodulation. Prof. SUN Lei, Professor of Department of Biomedical Engineering (now the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Sports Technology), PolyU, introduced a closed-loop acoustic brain–computer interface platform capable of real-time neural decoding and targeted modulation. The platform has been validated across primate disease models and human neurosurgery, highlighting its potential as a non-surgical therapeutic approach. The seminar concluded with an engaging panel discussion chaired by Prof. ZHANG Weixiong.  Panellists explored a range of topics, including the potential application of DBS to other patient groups with movement disorders, the use of meditative practices as positive control interventions in TPS trials, and considerations surrounding the precision and quality of sonogenetics. The discussion concluded that translating laboratory discoveries into meaningful patient outcomes requires sustained collaboration among clinicians, researchers, patients and industry partners, a core commitment that Cambridge NeuroWorks and PolyU PAIR will continue to champion. Please click here for an online review.

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.