In a strong testament of its leadership in research and innovation, PolyU continues to make waves on the academic stage. Actively promoting high-impact collaborative research with Chinese Mainland researchers, the University has secured approximately HK$20.3 million for 13 pioneering projects in the latest 2025/26 funding exercise jointly administered by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong. This achievement not only underscores the University’s research excellence and collaborative prowess but also positions it among the top three local universities in terms of total funding received under both the Collaborative Research Scheme (CRS) and the Joint Research Scheme (JRS).

At the forefront of this success are two projects funded under CRS, both led by scholars from the Faculty of Construction and Environment (FCE). One project, headed by Professor Ni Meng, Associate Dean (Research) of FCE, Head and Chair Professor of Energy Science and Technology of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering, focuses on developing high-performance and durable solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) for coupling with Fischer-Tropsch reactors to produce green synthetic liquid fuels. The other, led by Professor Yu Tao, Associate Head (Research) and Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, explores FRP-reinforced concrete structures for the marine environment, pioneering new materials and structural innovations that enhance ductility and enable prefabricated construction. These forward-looking efforts illustrate PolyU’s dedication to sustainable technologies that will help shape a greener, more resilient future.

Beyond these landmark initiatives, 11 additional PolyU projects have received roughly HK$13.2 million under JRS, ranking second among Hong Kong universities in both the funding amount and project count. These dynamic research endeavours span diverse disciplines, such as biomedical imaging, musculoskeletal health, infrared sensing, superconducting materials, ferroelectric crystals, energy storage, organic photovoltaics, navigation systems, and urban resilience. Collectively, they showcase the University’s unwavering commitment to advancing science, technology, and innovation with tangible societal impact.

Through steadfast collaboration with leading researchers across the Chinese Mainland, PolyU continues to strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a bridge for scientific exchange and innovation within the Greater Bay Area and beyond. The latest funding success not only reflects PolyU’s institutional dedication to research excellence but also affirms its position as a driving force in shaping a smarter, more sustainable world.

Click here for more information about PolyU’s funded projects.