News

8 RS Scholars ranked World’s Top 2% Scientists

We are delighted to share a good news that 8 RS scholars (listed below) have been ranked among the world’s top 2% most-cited scientists. The scholars were named in the latest release of the Stanford University-led compilation of citation indicators covering over 100,000 top scientists. They were classified into 22 subject fields and 174 sub-fields using indicators including information on citations, individuals’ scientific research output, co-authorship and a composite indicator for career-long and single year citation impact up to the end of 2024. Name of Scholar Subject Field Prof. David Shum Rehabilitation Prof. Marco Pang Rehabilitation Prof. Hector Tsang Psychiatry Prof. Shamay Ng Rehabilitation Prof. Benjamin Yee Neurology & Neurosurgery *Prof. Kenneth Fong Rehabilitation *Prof. Arnold Wong Orthopedics *Dr Shahnawaz Anwer Rehabilitation *Single Year Citations

PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences faculty and students support 15th National Games, providing comprehensive sports physiotherapy services for athletes

This November, from 9th to 21st, the 15th National Games of the People’s Republic of China (the 15th National Games) will bring together top athletes from across the Nation in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is committed to supporting the development of sports. A dedicated team of faculty and students from the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences provides comprehensive sports physiotherapy services to participating athletes, offering them pre-competition training and on-site medical services to ensure they are in peak physical condition and ready to perform at their best in the competition. Led by Prof. Amy FU, Peter Hung Professor in Pain Management, Associate Head and Professor of the PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, this multidisciplinary team comprises nine other faculty members and alumni from the Department, along with over 30 students currently pursuing Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Physiotherapy and Master of Science in Sports Physiotherapy programmes. The team has developed a comprehensive range of sports physiotherapy support programmes for athletes from the Hong Kong, China men’s and women’s handball teams, baseball team, gymnastics team and judo team, as well as the Guangdong province table tennis and fencing teams. Their services include pre-competition personalised performance assessments and analysis, health and training load monitoring, training support, and clinical physiotherapy consultations. During the 15th National Games, the team will also provide on-site medical support for the sports teams. A renowned expert with extensive experience in sports physiotherapy and team leadership, Prof. Amy Fu has led PolyU efforts in supporting a number of major international sport events, including the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games. She remarked, “The PolyU team is deeply committed to empowering Hong Kong and Chinese athletes as they prepare and compete at the highest levels. We are thrilled to be part of the 15th National Games, where we can leverage our unique strengths in sports science and sports physiotherapy to support the growth of sports in China.” Prof. Fu expressed her gratitude to the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC) for fostering the collaboration between PolyU and the SF&OC member associations. The PolyU team has been preparing for over a year, leveraging their extensive expertise in sports physiotherapy and the latest research findings to empower athletes to mitigate injuries and maintain a high level of physical condition. Their comprehensive approach involves conducting thorough assessments to identify injury risks, analyse athletes’ movement patterns and provide rehabilitation therapy for injured athletes. Additionally, they educate athletes on different recovery strategies to ensure their swift return to training and competition. Prof. Fu’s team has adopted several innovative in-house technologies, such as the Patellar Auto-mobilising Device for easing knee pain and a unique shoulder brace specifically designed for judo athletes. Mr Freddy TSE, Captain of the Hong Kong, China Men’s Handball Team and a graduate of the PolyU School of Hotel and Tourism Management, who will be competing in the 15th National Games, stated, “It is an immense privilege to represent Hong Kong at the National Games, and the rehabilitation support from the PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences has been instrumental in our preparation and enabled us to withstand some of the rigours of competition. As a proud PolyU graduate, I am grateful for the institution that not only nurtured my growth but has also provided me with multifaceted support and care throughout my athletic career.” Mr Tony LEE, Hong Kong, China Judo athlete and PhD student of the PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, shared his insights, “As an athlete and physiotherapy researcher, I wear two hats – one as a competitor and the other as a scholar – and deeply appreciate the value of professional physiotherapy in elevating athletic performance and mitigating the risk of injury. PolyU’s rehabilitative support stands out for its comprehensive approach, providing not only expert guidance for recovery but also psychological encouragement that empowers us to persevere, focus and ultimately thrive.” The PolyU team operates within a unique faculty-student collaborative framework, where students are entrusted with delivering sports physiotherapy to elite athletes under the supervision of faculty members. Students participating in the project have stated that providing physiotherapy services to Hong Kong’s athletes competing in the National Games is a unique opportunity to develop critical decision-making skills under high-pressure conditions. During the course of their training, they learn how to assess and make sound judgments in offering appropriate management to any injured athletes. Their experience at the Games will help prepare them for their future careers as confident and competent physiotherapists. The 15th National Games marks a historic milestone as Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau unite for the first time to host this prestigious event. Hong Kong takes centre stage, hosting eight competitive events. Over 30 PolyU students and alumni will compete in about seven sports disciplines, including artistic gymnastics, athletics, beach volleyball, handball, karate, taekwondo and swimming. We wish our PolyU athletes every success in making the most of their home advantage and bringing glory to Hong Kong at the 15th National Games.

Prof. Shirley Ngai Honoured with Prestigious UGC Teaching Award

Prof. Shirley NGAI, Associate Head and Associate Professor of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at PolyU, received the 2025 University Grants Committee (UGC) Teaching Award (the Award) in the General Faculty Members category for her visionary leadership in rehabilitation education. An awardee for the Early Career Faculty Members category in 2016, Prof. Ngai is the first individual to receive this prestigious accolade twice. Throughout her 13-year teaching journey, Prof. Shirley Ngai has espoused a student-centred pedagogy and had a transformative impact on physiotherapy education with her extraordinary leadership. With the aim of revolutionising competency-based clinical training, she has introduced medical simulation into physiotherapy education in Hong Kong. This approach utilises simulated patients to enhance students’ clinical skills and confidence, equipping them to face real-world clinical environments. Her numerous innovative teaching initiatives, including mobile learning apps and self-directed e-books, as well as the adoption of advanced technologies such as Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality, also strengthen students’ self-directed learning and professional competency. The online learning modules and a globally recognised online course she has developed have been adopted by more than 3,800 learners from over 130 regions worldwide. Prof. Ngai has actively promoted academic and curriculum reform to elevate international standards in rehabilitation education. She spearheaded the creation of Blended Clinical Education, a comprehensive framework incorporating virtual patient cases, grading rubrics and quality assurance systems. This initiative breaks through the traditional practice of recognising only hands-on clinical training and has drawn attention from the global academic community. Expressing her great honour at receiving the Award for a second time, Prof. Ngai said, “My dynamic teaching journey has shaped my teaching philosophy: exceeding traditional boundaries, tackling challenges and relentlessly innovating to elevate outcomes for every student. I have noticed that many students feel stressed when applying university knowledge during clinical placement; I therefore took the initiative to reform the clinical curriculum to hone skills that are essential for clinical practice. The Award is a tremendous encouragement. I will continue championing my various novel solutions to educators worldwide, striving to make even greater contributions to the academic community.”

PolyU RS Signs MoU with Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore future collaboration opportunities. The MoU signing ceremony marks the beginning of a promising partnership aimed at enhancing research and clinical cooperation between the two institutions. This strategic alliance will foster the exchange of academic knowledge, clinical expertise, and innovative practices in the field of rehabilitation sciences. Both parties expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership and their shared commitment to driving excellence in rehabilitation education, research, and clinical practice.

Announcing Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences 2025

We are thrilled to announce that Prof. William Wu has been named the recipient of the Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences 2025. Prof. Wu's remarkable career and contributions to medical science make him an exemplary figure deserving of this accolade. After his graduation from the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Occupational Therapy programme of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, he continued to advance himself in the fields of pharmacology and medical sciences. Currently, he serves as the Professor (non-clinical) at the Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Prof. Wu has made significant advancements in various fields, particularly in Cancer Biology, Host-Microbe Interactions, and Pain Neuroscience. His research focuses on understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of gastrointestinal cancers, investigating host-microbe interactions, and identifying novel targets for pain treatments. Notably, Prof. Wu has published over 390 peer-reviewed papers and has a h-index of 77 (Web of Science). He has authored or co-authored 99 papers in journals that have an impact factor greater than 10, including Cancer Cell, Cell Host & Microbe, Science Translational Medicine, Annals of Oncology, and Gastroenterology, showcasing his expertise and innovative approaches in these areas. He has also been recognised as Highly Cited Researcher in the field of Cross-field (2024) by Clarivate Analytics.  Prof. Wu's influence extends far beyond the academic realm, as evidenced by his involvement in various professional memberships and fellowships. His affiliations with esteemed organisations such as The Royal College of Physicians, the American Gastroenterological Association, and The Royal College of Pathologists underscore his recognition and standing in the global medical community. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the assessment panel, comprising both internal and external members, for their thorough deliberation and consideration. Please join us in congratulating Prof. Wu on this well-deserved honour.

Celebrating Excellence: Inauguration Ceremony of the 2025/26 Academic Year cum Year One Student Pledge Ceremony

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences marked the commencement of the 2025/26 academic year with an inauguration ceremony on 28 August 2025. This event also served as a platform to honour the remarkable accomplishments of our staff and students. During the ceremony, accolades were bestowed to recognise the remarkable contributions and successes of our staff, by the guest of honour Dr Hon David Lam, Legislative Council Member (Medical and Health Services). Award: Outstanding Teacher Award Recipient: Prof. Will Chien Award: Outstanding Earlier Career Teacher Award Recipient: Mr Kenneth Chung Award: Outstanding Teaching Team Award Recipients: Team Leader: Prof. Shamay Ng Team Members: Prof. Stanley Winser, Prof. Priya Kannan, Prof. Clare Yu, Mr Kenneth Chung, Dr Hoe Lee, Ms Joy Lau, Mr Kin-Chung Tang, Mr Louis Nip and Mr Nick Lui Award: Outstanding Early Career Researcher Award Recipient: Prof. Arnold Wong Award: Outstanding Service Award (Individual Award for Academic/ Teaching/ Clinical Staff) Recipient: Prof. Benson Lau Award: Outstanding Service Award (Team Award for Academic/ Teaching/ Clinical Staff) Recipients: Prof. Marco Pang, Prof. Amy Fu, Prof. Freddy Lam, Prof. Anna Bella Suen, Ms Jacqueline Au-Yeung and Ms Vera Lam Award: Outstanding Service Award (Team Award for Non-Academic Staff) Recipients: Ms Sally Chan and Ms Qianyi He   Following the ceremonial proceedings, the Year One Student Commitment Ceremony took place, symbolising the commencement of the professional journeys of our physiotherapy and occupational therapy students. Led by Prof. Marco Pang, the freshmen participated in a solemn pledge and signing ceremony, affirming their dedication to upholding the ethical standards and principles of their chosen professions. We warmly welcome our new students as they take their first steps into the impactful world of physiotherapy and occupational therapy. This ceremony signifies not just a new chapter for them but also their dedication to serving public with compassion and integrity.

PolyU Hosts Hong Kong’s First Clinical Education Conference and Collaborates with The University of Queensland to Establish a Joint Research Laboratory, Advancing Clinical Education in Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) hosted the inaugural Clinical Education Conference, the first event of its kind in Hong Kong, on 12 July on campus, aiming to promote the advancement of clinical education in physiotherapy and occupational therapy. During the Conference, PolyU signed a collaboration agreement with the University of Queensland to officially establish a Joint Health Professions Education Research Laboratory, with the aim of fostering collaborative research and innovation in healthcare professional education. The Conference brought together over 300 clinical educators and experts in physiotherapy and occupational therapy from government agencies, non-governmental organisations and private practices. Mr David NG, Assistant Director (Rehabilitation and Medical Social Services) of the Social Welfare Department of the HKSAR Government; Prof. Marco PANG, Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation, Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, and Director of the University Research Facility in Behavioural and Systems Neuroscience at PolyU; Prof. Sandy BRAUER, Deputy Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences at The University of Queensland; Prof. Kenneth FONG, Associate Head of the PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences; Prof. Shirley NGAI, Associate Head of the PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Chair of the Organising Committee of the Clinical Education Conference; Mr Alexander WOO, President of the Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association; and Ms Sanne FONG, Chairperson of the Hong Kong Occupational Therapy Association, attended the Conference opening ceremony. Prof. Marco Pang and Prof. Sandy Brauer subsequently signed the collaboration agreement on behalf of both parties, symbolising the official establishment of the Joint Health Professions Education Research Laboratory and marking a significant step forward in their collaborative efforts in teaching and research. Prof. Marco Pang stated, “With PolyU’s extensive experience in the education of healthcare professionals, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences has nurtured countless exceptional occupational therapists and physiotherapists, contributing to the healthcare industry and society at large. We look forward to leveraging the strengths of both PolyU and The University of Queensland to foster innovation in healthcare professional education and research, and to facilitate collaboration between educators and the industry, thereby advancing the development of physiotherapy and occupational therapy education.” The Clinical Education Conference featured keynote speeches, roundtable discussions and panel discussions. Prof. Sandy Brauer and Prof. Jodie COPLEY, Head of Occupational Therapy and Professor of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at The University of Queensland, delivered keynote speeches on allied health curricula and mastering clinical and professional reasoning, sharing the latest advancements and insights in clinical education with attendees. Seasoned industry practitioners from the Hospital Authority, non-governmental organisations and private practices also chaired roundtable and panel discussions, exploring innovative clinical placement models and coaching skills for clinical educators.

Congratulations to PhD Student Ms Chelsia Ka Ching Cheung on Winning the Best Presentation Runner-up award at the PolyU Research Student Conference 2025

We are delighted to announce that Ms. Chelsia Ka Ching Cheung, a PhD student under the supervision of Prof. Arnold Wong, has been awarded the Best Presentation Runner-Up (Session 4) at the PolyU Research Student Conference 2025 held in early July. Chelsia’s presentation title was “Acceptance and commitment therapy versus education for improving psychological well-being in parents and children with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A randomized controlled trial protocol” - Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects up to 4% of teenagers, often progressing rapidly during puberty. While traditional treatments primarily address the physical aspects, Chelsia’s work highlights the significant psychological impact AIS has on both adolescents and their parents. Her study explores the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — a novel cognitive behavioral approach—to support families, comparing its effectiveness to AIS education in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. Preliminary findings from her randomized controlled trial indicate promising improvements in psychological well-being for families in the ACT group. Congratulations once again to Chelsia for this well-deserved recognition of her impactful research.

Celebrating Ms Jin Minxia’s PolyU 3MT Triumphs

We are delighted to announce some fantastic news. Ms Jin Minxia (Jimmy), a PhD student under the supervision of Prof. Georg Kranz, has received significant accolades at the 2025 PolyU 3MT Competition held on 2 July 2025. She was awarded both the Champion title and the People’s Choice Award. This marks the second consecutive year that our department’s research students have won both the Champion and People’s Choice titles at the PolyU 3MT Competition — a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication of our students. Jimmy’s presentation topic was Brain Response Predicts Depression Recurrence. She will now represent PolyU at the international 3MT competition — a prestigious platform to showcase her research on a global stage. Please join us in congratulating Jimmy on her well-deserved success and in wishing her the very best as she prepares for the upcoming competition.

Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences 2025 – Call for Nominations!

We are excited to announce that the nominations for the Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences 2025 are now open! This prestigious award not only celebrates the remarkable achievements of our graduates in their respective fields but also acknowledges their active support of our alma mater. Support and Contribution to PolyU is one of the key selection criteria. Three achievement areas serve as a framework for assessing nominee’s achievements in the concerned areas.  They include Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurial Achievement, and Scholarly Achievement. Moreover, alumni who are aged at/under 40 would be eligible for the Outstanding Young Alumni Award. Please download the nomination form HERE for your perusal. Recipients of Department Awards may be nominated for the Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU at the Faculty Level. We eagerly anticipate your nominations in recognition of our distinguished alumni by 31 July 2025 (Thursday) at 5:00 pm! For any inquiries, please email rs.crm@polyu.edu.hk.