Media Releases

Delegation from the CPC Jinjiang Municipal Committee visits PolyU to support the Nation's development as a sports powerhouse and Chinese Dream of the national rejuvenation

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PolyU researchers pioneer novel multi-energy field-assisted diamond cutting technology, enabling ultra-precision manufacturing for high-performance materials

Machining, involving the precise cutting and shaping of materials, is a key manufacturing process. As industries increasingly adopt the use of high-performance materials with high strength and hardness, traditional machining methods often fall short in delivering the required precision. A research team at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has developed a ground-breaking machining technology that combines laser and magnetic fields during diamond cutting, enhancing cutting smoothness and surface quality while reducing a material’s subsurface damage and tool wear. This dual-field approach demonstrates exceptional manufacturing capabilities that surpass existing field-assisting cutting techniques, making possible ultra-precision machining of a range of challenging advanced materials. The innovative and unique multi-energy field-assisted ultra-precision machining technology, known as in-situ laser-magnetic dual-field assisted diamond cutting (LMDFDC), has been developed by Prof. Sandy TO Suet, Professor of the PolyU Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and Associate Director of the State Key Laboratory of Ultra-precision Machining Technology, and her research team. Relevant research findings are published in International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing. Site field machining refers to the application of external energy fields, such as laser and magnetic fields, at the cutting site during the machining process. Existing field-assisting cutting techniques have certain limitations. For example, a laser field helps soften hard-brittle materials and makes them easier to cut, but often causes melting or craters due to overheating; a magnetic field can diminish cutting force and enhance heat dissipation to ease cutting process, but its effect is unstable across different materials and surface scratches caused by the exfoliation of hard particles in high-performance materials like high-entropy alloys (HEAs) cannot be avoided. By combining laser and magnetic fields, LMDFDC synergises strengths of both fields and mitigates their respective drawbacks. The researchers compared this new approach with three other machining methods for HEA workpieces: laser-only, magnetic-only and cutting without any external field. Using a suite of advanced tools, they observed changes of the workpiece at multiple levels—from surface appearance to subsurface features and atomic-scale structures. Results showed that, through thermo-magneto-mechanical multi-physical synergistic interactions, LMDFDC improves machinability to a degree not achievable with either field alone. In particular, the technology produces finished pieces with smoother surface and less damaged subsurface by using a magnetic field to enhance heat transfer and suppress laser-induced thermal damage, while the laser softens hard particles to avoid scratches and improve cutting stability. The dual-field coupling effect also prevents the formation of build-up on tool edges caused by severe friction, and rapid tool degradation from heat, significantly reducing tool wear and extending their lifespan. In 2017, at the forefront of advanced manufacturing technology research, Prof. To led her team to propose the world’s first magnetic field-assisted diamond cutting technique that enhances manufacturability of difficult-to-machine materials. She said, “As time progresses, single-field assisted machining technologies are proving increasingly inadequate for the precision manufacturing of new high-performance materials, especially the emerging HEAs with their excellent strength and stability that are highly desirable for advanced engineering applications in high-ends fields like aerospace and energy. LMDFDC marks a technological breakthrough in machining these new materials, opening up new avenues of ultra-precision manufacturing technology.” In addition to introducing a transformative dual-field assisted machining technology, the research also investigated what occurs, what changes and what improves in the materials when dual fields are applied. This deepens scientific understanding of material transformations during field-assisted processes and their underlying mechanisms, bridging a critical knowledge gap for designing future multi-field machining methods for various advanced materials. “The research is among the first to thoroughly examine how laser and magnetic fields work together during ultra-precision machining, and how this combined action differs from using either field alone,” Prof. To added. “The significance of the findings resides in propelling frontier academic developments in multi-physics coupled manufacturing theories while discovering innovative machining approaches. Currently in the process of patenting the innovative LMDFDC technology, the research team plans to explore additional combinations of energy fields to support the development of more versatile and reliable multi-physics machining approaches. The research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China’s General Program, as well as the General Research Fund of the Research Grants Council and the Mainland-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme under the Innovation and Technology Fund of the Innovation and Technology Commission of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. ***END***

PolyU to join Third InnoHK Research Cluster to advance sustainable development, energy and space technology with global top universities

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) actively participates in the “InnoHK Clusters” initiative spearheaded by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), driving impactful frontier research to support Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. With funding support from the InnoHK scheme, the University will establish one new research centre and serve as a key partner in another, under the third cluster, SEAM@InnoHK. The centres aim to advance cutting-edge research in sustainable development, energy and space technology. The new PolyU Research Centre for Intelligent GRID and Energy Technologies (I-GET), will be established at the Hong Kong Science Park, pioneering research on sustainability and energy in collaboration with world-leading institutions. Partner institutions include Université Gustave Eiffel, King’s College London, National Technical University of Athens, Oxford Suzhou Centre for Advanced Research, University of Sheffield, Suzhou National Laboratory and Tsinghua University. Meanwhile, in partnership with the Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, PolyU will be a major local partner of the Centre for Space Manufacturing Technology (CSMT), contributing the University’s expertise in advanced manufacturing and materials technology to support breakthroughs in space technology. Prof. Christopher CHAO, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, expressed gratitude for the HKSAR Government support for the University’s research. He remarked: “A core theme of the Nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan is accelerating a comprehensive green transition across economic and social development, alongside advancing high-tech innovation. As a global top 100 institution, PolyU is committed to leveraging its strengths in interdisciplinary research to drive frontier research in sustainable development, energy and space technology—bolstering the Nation’s technological prowess and high-quality development. We are grateful for the Government’s ongoing support, allowing us to utilise the InnoHK platform to harness our research excellence and robust global network, contributing to Hong Kong’s development as an international I&T hub.” PolyU has already established two world-class research centres under the first two InnoHK Clusters: the Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design (AiDLab) under AIR@InnoHK, and the Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR) under Health@InnoHK. Within the InnoHK Clusters, PolyU will continue to push the boundaries of frontier research in artificial intelligence, healthcare, sustainability, energy and space technology for the benefit of Hong Kong, the Nation and the world.   ***END***

PolyU appoints Professor Zijian Zheng as Vice President (Knowledge Transfer)

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) announces the appointment of Professor Zijian ZHENG as Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) with effect from 1 April 2026. In his new capacity, Professor Zheng will steer the planning and implementation of the University’s strategic agenda in translational research, knowledge transfer, technology commercialisation, entrepreneurship and stakeholder engagement. He will oversee the Jockey Club Design Institute for Social Innovation, the Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office and the Mainland Research Units, and foster a dynamic ecosystem by deepening strategic partnerships with industry, government, academic and community stakeholders, particularly in the Chinese Mainland and the Greater Bay Area. In parallel, he will drive the University’s engagement and collaboration for knowledge transfer initiatives to further strengthen PolyU’s presence and competitiveness on the global stage. Professor Zheng is currently Director of the PolyU-Daya Bay Technology and Innovation Research Institute, Associate Director of the Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems, Associate Director of the University Research Facility in Materials Characterization and Device Fabrication, and Chair Professor of Soft Materials and Devices. He joined PolyU as an Assistant Professor in 2009. A leading scholar in manufacturing technology and materials science, he has published over 270 papers in top international journals such as Science, Nature and Nature Materials, and holds more than 50 filed and granted patents. He has a strong track record in securing major competitive research and knowledge transfer grants, and has obtained substantial funding support for high-impact translational research projects. Demonstrating a strong entrepreneurial spirit, he has also founded several PolyU startups to commercialise flexible battery and wearable body sensor technologies. Professor Zheng brings substantial management experience in knowledge transfer and innovation. As the founding director of the PolyU-Daya Bay Technology and Innovation Research Institute and a senior leader of the PolyU-Wenzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute, he has played a pivotal role in building research and incubation capacities and expanding partnerships with industry and government stakeholders in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. Professor Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, said, “Professor Zheng has made significant contributions to both academic research and knowledge transfer. He has demonstrated sustained excellence in translational research, forged strategic partnerships with leading industrial enterprises, secured substantial competitive research and knowledge transfer funding, and accumulated extensive management experience across major research and innovation platforms. As a proven leader of multiple institutes and facilities, I am confident that he will provide visionary leadership in his new role as Vice President (Knowledge Transfer), further strengthening PolyU’s knowledge transfer ecosystem, accelerating technology commercialisation and entrepreneurship, and enhancing the University’s impact in support of national development and Hong Kong’s position as an international innovation and technology hub.” Professor Zheng received his Doctor of Philosophy degree in Chemistry from the University of Cambridge and his Bachelor of Polymer Materials and Engineering degree from Tsinghua University. He is a Fellow of the International Association of Advanced Materials, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, a Founding Member of The Hong Kong Young Academy of Sciences, and a Founding Young Fellow of The Hong Kong Academy of Engineering. Please download Professor Zijian Zheng’s portrait here.   ***END***

PolyU ranked top 30 globally for five subjects in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, with four subjects ranked first in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has achieved remarkable results in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings by Subject 2026, with five subjects ranked among the top 30 globally and four subjects ranked first in Hong Kong, highlighting PolyU’s growing international recognition and its leading position in these academic fields. PolyU ranked in the global top 30 for its subjects in Hospitality & Leisure Management (15th), Civil & Structural Engineering (18th), Nursing (18th), Architecture & Built Environment (21st) and Art & Design (24th). Furthermore, Hospitality & Leisure Management, Civil & Structural Engineering, Art & Design and Environmental Sciences were ranked first in Hong Kong. These results further consolidate PolyU’s position as a core contributor to Hong Kong’s role as an international hub for post-secondary education, showcasing the University’s sustained strengths and significant advantages in academic and research excellence. This year, PolyU has 24 subjects ranked in the top 100 worldwide, spanning a wide range of fields, including Data Science and Artificial Intelligence; Mechanical, Aeronautical & Manufacturing Engineering; and Materials Sciences. Having identified artificial intelligence (AI) as one of its strategic research areas, the University established the PolyU Academy for Artificial Intelligence (PAAI) to support Hong Kong’s development as an AI innovation hub. PolyU also plans to establish the PolyU Aerospace Research Academy (PARA) this year, which, together with the existing PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR), will further leverage the University’s strengths in interdisciplinary research and promote the translation of research outcomes. Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, said, “We are pleased with PolyU’s encouraging results in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, which demonstrate the University’s internationally recognised academic and research excellence across various disciplines. As an innovative world-class university, PolyU is committed to pursuing excellence in education, research and knowledge transfer. The University will continue to expand its global collaborative network, with the aim of playing a pivotal role in the global higher education landscape and contributing to Hong Kong’s development as an international hub for post-secondary education.” The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 evaluated the performance of over 1,900 institutions worldwide across 55 academic subjects and five broad subject areas, based on their academic reputation, employer reputation, citations per paper, the H-index and international research network. ***END***

PolyU holds the Opening Ceremony of the Third PolyU Chinese Culture Festival cum Unveiling Ceremony of the Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre; Promoting the excellence of Chinese culture and fostering cultural heritage exchange

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) today held the Opening Ceremony of the Third PolyU Chinese Culture Festival, alongside the Unveiling Ceremony of the newly enhanced Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre. As one of the University’s signature annual cultural events, the PolyU Chinese Culture Festival serves as a pivotal platform for preserving and promoting the excellence of Chinese culture while advancing students’ whole-person development. Through a diverse array of programmes, this year’s Festival continues to enhance the younger generation’s appreciation of Chinese culture and strengthen their sense of national identity. It also contributes to Hong Kong’s development as an East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange. The Opening Ceremony was officiated by Mr LIU Maozhou, First-Level Inspector of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, together with Dr LAM Tai-fai, PolyU Council Chairman; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President; Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost; Prof. Christopher CHAO, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation); Prof. CAO Jiannong, Vice President (Education); Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs) and Chairman of the PolyU Chinese Culture Festival; and Dr Ben LAU, Interim Vice President (Campus and Facilities). Dr Lam Tai-fai said, “The strength and prosperity of a country and its people are underpinned by the flourishing of its culture. Only by firmly upholding cultural confidence can we promote cultural prosperity and provide solid support for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation. The National 15th Five-Year Plan calls for enhancing the country’s cultural soft power, promoting Chinese culture, and advancing the building of a global community with a shared future. This is not only a national strategy, but also an important mission for both Hong Kong and PolyU. This year, as we present the Third PolyU Chinese Culture Festival, we are further expanding its scope and enriching its depth. We have strengthened collaboration with provincial and municipal governments and relevant organisations in the Chinese Mainland. In particular, we have invited cultural teams from Guangdong and Fujian to showcase Hakka and Minnan cultures on our campus. Together, we will promote Chinese culture, enhance international exchange and outreach, support Hong Kong’s development as an East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange, integrate into and serve the overall national development, and enable Chinese culture to reach the world more effectively.” The Festival’s inaugural event, “A Window onto Vast Vistas: Master Writers’ Hong Kong Traces”, is being held at the Wong Man and Tang Kit Wah Global Student Hub on the PolyU campus from now until 7 April. Organised by PolyU and co-organised by the National Museum of Modern Chinese Literature, the two-week programme focuses on six renowned modern Chinese literary masters — Lu Xun, Xiao Hong, Mao Dun, Ba Jin, Liang Yusheng and Jin Yong. Through rare archival materials, immersive exhibition settings and a variety of talks, the programme creates a cross-temporal platform for cultural dialogue. Mr WANG Jun, Executive Deputy Director of the National Museum of Modern Chinese Literature, said in his online address, “The Chinese Culture Festival is not only PolyU’s annual cultural highlight, but also an important platform for promoting and sustaining fine traditional Chinese culture on university campuses. As a national hub for literary archives and research, the National Museum of Modern Chinese Literature has long been committed to bringing literature beyond academic communities and into the wider community. We are honoured to co-organise this exhibition and to showcase selected rare holdings from our collection on the PolyU campus. This initiative represents another meaningful step in our ongoing mission to connect communities through literature and to foster dialogue and exchange through curated exhibitions.” The Third PolyU Chinese Culture Festival will present a wide range of programmes, including Ambassadors’ seminars, film screenings, a Mid-Autumn Festival Gala, thematic activities on Hakka and Fujian Minnan cultures, and the Global Confucius Institutes Hong Kong Forum. For the latest updates, please visit the Festival website. The exhibition “A Window onto Vast Vistas: Master Writers’ Hong Kong Traces” focuses on six modern Chinese literary masters — Lu Xun, Xiao Hong, Mao Dun, Ba Jin, Liang Yusheng and Jin Yong. It showcases precious materials, including their manuscripts and correspondence, and features a special reconstruction of the study rooms of Ba Jin and Mao Dun. The thematic event “A Window onto Vast Vistas: Master Writers’ Hong Kong Traces” of the Third PolyU Chinese Culture Festival is being held at the Wong Man and Tang Kit Wah Global Student Hub on the PolyU campus from now until 7 April. [View exhibition photos here] Unveiling of the enhanced Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre: A new landmark for cultural exchange on campus PolyU held the Unveiling Ceremony for the enhanced Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre on the same day, officiated by Dr Lam Tai-fai and Prof. Jin-Guang Teng. Members of the PolyU Council and the central management team were in attendance to witness the Ceremony of this revitalised campus cultural venue. Prof. Jin-Guang Teng said, “PolyU takes great pride in having Dr Lam as an outstanding alumnus and visionary leader. Today, as we unveil the Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre, we are not only expressing our heartfelt gratitude for his steadfast support and generous contributions to his alma mater over the years, but also paying tribute to his dedication to Hong Kong, the Nation and the education sector. The Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre is more than a landmark — it symbolises gratitude and giving back, perseverance and the pursuit of excellence, and a broad vision that embraces both the Nation and the world. On behalf of the University, I extend my sincerest appreciation to Dr Lam for dedicating his time, energy, expertise and determination to the continued advancement of his alma mater.” The University named the venue outside the Jockey Club Auditorium as the Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre in 2015 in recognition of Dr Lam’s significant contributions to education, community service and the development of PolyU. Enhancement works commenced in 2024. Retaining its fan-shaped design, the Amphitheatre now spans approximately 1,100 square metres and features tiered seating for up to 200 spectators. The venue is ideal for exhibitions, performances, outdoor displays and various campus activities. It will serve as a vibrant hub for cultural engagement, further strengthening connections among staff, students, alumni and the wider community. PolyU held the Unveiling Ceremony of the Lam Tai Fai Amphitheatre on the same day, officiated by Dr Lam Tai-fai (left of the plaque) and Prof. Jin-Guang Teng (right of the plaque). Members of the PolyU Council and the central management team witnessed the Ceremony of this new campus cultural landmark. ***END***

PolyU-Shenzhen Technology and Innovation Research Institute (Futian) unveiled, powering High-Quality Development in the GBA through Shenzhen-Hong Kong Collaborative Innovation

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PolyU supports Hong Kong, China Olympic Academy seminar; National team legend Ma Long and local Olympians inspire students

The Hong Kong, China Olympic Academy under the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC) today organised a seminar “A Glamorous Transformation in Sports: The Next Level”, with The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) as a supporting organisation. The event drew over 1,000 students from various local universities. Bringing together sports leaders and Olympic athletes, the seminar explored development opportunities for the sports industry and athletes’ personal journeys of perseverance, showcasing the enduring relevance of the Olympic spirit. Attending the seminar from PolyU were Dr LAM Tai-fai, Council Chairman; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President; and Prof. Ben YOUNG, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs), showing PolyU’s strong support. Held at the Jockey Club Auditorium on the PolyU campus, the seminar featured a panel discussion moderated by Mr Kenneth FOK, Vice-President of SF&OC and Chairperson of the Hong Kong, China Olympic Academy. Joining him were Mr Michael CHENG, President of the Hong Kong, China Tennis Association; Mr Andy KWOK, Captain of the Hong Kong Golf Club; and Mr Eric FOK, Chairman of the Football Association of Hong Kong, China. During their discussion, the panellists examined the evolution of major international sporting events and discussed Hong Kong’s evolving role and opportunities on the global sports stage. A highlight of the event was the sharing session with Olympians. National team table tennis legend and six-time Olympic gold medallist Mr MA Long, along with Hong Kong swimming representatives Miss Stephanie AU and Miss Yvette KONG, shared their insights on passing on the Olympic spirit. Drawing on their own experiences, the athletes encouraged students to face setbacks with courage, upholding a “never give up” attitude and daring students to pursue their dreams with resilience. After the seminar, Mr Ma engaged in an informal exchange with members of the PolyU Table Tennis Team at the PolyU Sports Centre. He provided hands-on guidance on techniques and on developing a competition mindset, exemplifying the spirit of perseverance and excellence in action. Enthusiastic applause rounded off the event on an inspiring and uplifting note. After the seminar, Mr Ma Long took part in informal exchanges and friendly games with PolyU table tennis team members, offering close-up guidance on developing their skills and a competition mindset. Mr Kenneth Fok and Olympic diving champion Ms Guo Jingjing exchanged views on the value of sports over the table tennis table. ***END***

PolyU-Xingguo Technology and Innovation Research Institute unveiled, partnering with Jiangxi to propel innovation and high-quality development in the textiles and fashion industry

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PolyU hosts 3rd Cross-Strait Hong Kong and Macao Service-Learning Student Conference to foster cross-regional exchange and social innovation

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Cross-Strait, Hong Kong and Macao Service-Learning Education Network jointly organised the 3rd Cross-Strait Hong Kong and Macao Service-Learning Student Conference, held on the PolyU campus from 28 February to 1 March. The event was co-organised by the Silk Road Youth Development Center of Xi’an Jiaotong University, SWUFE-PolyU Healthy Youth Development Research Center and Guangdong University of Technology, with generous support from the Tin Ka Ping Foundation. The Conference brought together 36 undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students from 30 universities to exchange insights on the practice and future development of service-learning. This year’s conference, themed “Sharing Students’ Service-Learning Achievements”, aimed to establish a cross-regional exchange platform and encourage students to drive social innovation through service-learning initiatives. Participants shared their service-learning outcomes and reflections through video presentations and thematic group discussions. During the Conference, Dr Ernest TSE, representative of the Tin Ka Ping Foundation, engaged in in-depth discussions with students. A cultural excursion to Cheung Chau was also organised, allowing students to interact with the local community and deepen their understanding of service-learning. At the closing ceremony, Prof. Daniel SHEK, Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) of PolyU, encouraged students to make the most of cross-regional exchanges to broaden their horizons, build friendships and enhance their understanding of cross-cultural collaboration. As the first Hong Kong university to incorporate service-learning as a core element of the undergraduate curriculum, PolyU is committed to promoting the development of service-learning and encouraging students to apply their academic knowledge to create positive social impact. ***END***