Professor Lianzhou WANG is awarded RGC Theme-based Research Scheme (TRS) 2026/27

We are very pleased to announce that our RISE member, Professor Lianzhou WANG is awarded RGC Theme-based Research Scheme (TRS) 2026/27!

This scheme aims at aims to focus academic research efforts of UGC-funded universities on themes of strategic importance to the long-term development of Hong Kong.

Professor Wang’s project “Intelligent Artificial Photosynthesis” is awarded with HK$48.83M.

Abstract:

What if carbon dioxide were no longer only an emission burden, but could be wisely used as a resource for green fuels using sunlight? Our mother Nature already gives us a powerful example. Green plants use sunlight every day to convert carbon dioxide and water into energy-rich substances that sustain life for millions of years.

This program, “Intelligent Artificial Photosynthesis”, aims to learn from nature and build a new research platform for recycling carbon dioxide using sunlight. It will combine artificial intelligence, advanced materials, automated experiments and solar fuel reactor design to develop a closed-loop “Design–Make–Test–Learn” system. Artificial intelligence will accelerate the design and selection of new catalytic materials; automated systems will enable rapid preparation and testing of material; in-situ and operando facility will help better understand how the reaction works; and the results will be fed back to guide the next round of improvement.

The main goal is to use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into liquid fuels such as green methanol. Methanol is a liquid, which is easier to store, transport and use than hydrogen gas. The sustainable production of methanol will support future low-carbon shipping, sustainable fuel supply and green chemical production. The team will also develop modular photothermal panel reactors and work toward high efficiency, high selectivity and long-term stable operation, exploring a pathway from laboratory research to future application.

Congratulations to Professor Wang!

Reference:

PolyU Press Release: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/media/media-releases/2026/0729_polyu-ranks-among-leading-universities-in-rgc-funding-schemes/

Online coverage:

South China Morning Post - https://polyu.me/44SgFwq

Mirage News - https://polyu.me/4yI56W9

Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/4bl1pvL; https://polyu.me/3U1ixk2

Bauhinia - https://polyu.me/4h45uYT