News

CEE Shines in Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2024

In a recent announcement by the ShanghaiRanking, CEE continues to soar in global rankings, marking significant progress in three pivotal research areas. The latest Shanghai Ranking league table reveals CEE's exceptional achievements in the Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS) 2024. CEE has secured remarkable positions globally, clinching the 2nd spot in Civil Engineering, 2nd in Transportation Science and Technology, and 22nd in Environmental Science and Engineering. These rankings not only highlight our international standing but also reaffirm our leading position in Hong Kong. This success underscores our unwavering commitment to excellence in education and research within these disciplines. The GRAS uses a range of objective academic indicators and third-party data to evaluate the performance of over 5,000 world universities across various criteria, including research output, research influence, international collaboration, research quality, and international academic awards. Among the listed 1,900 universities hailing from 104 countries and regions, CEE stands out for its consistent dedication to advancing knowledge and research in the field.  Heartfelt congratulations to all CEE members whose persistent efforts have propelled us to these commendable positions.  The full version of GRAS 2024 can be found here:  https://www.shanghairanking.com/rankings/gras/2024   

CEE Departmental Visit - Tsang Pik Shan (Sung Lan) Secondary School (6 Nov)

A group of 35 students from Tsang Pik Shan (Sung Lan) Secondary School visited CEE on 6 November 2024 (Wednesday). Dr Siwei Liu, Assistant Professor of CEE, introduced the admission information of BEng (Hons) in Civil Engineering and BEng (Hons) in Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Development as well as the recent developments of the civil engineering industry to the students.  After the programme talk, the students visited our Noise and Safety Laboratory, where they got a clear picture on both noise reduction and road safety through the demonstration of laboratory equipment and experiments. To arouse the students’ concerns on environmental sustainability, an Air Purifier Model DIY Workshop was arranged to the group. The students had the chance to build their own air purifiers and found the visit informative and fruitful.  

Establishment of Research Centre for Nature-based Urban Infrastructure Solutions

We are thrilled to announce the establishment of Research Centre for Nature-Based Urban Infrastructure Solutions (NBUIS) in September 2024. Led by Prof. Yuhong Wang, Professor of CEE, NBUIS is dedicated to advancing sustainable practices in urban development by integrating ecological principles with innovative urban infrastructure design. The centre comprises experts from various universities, including eight professors from CEE. Through a collaborative approach that involves academic institutions, industry partners, and local communities, the multidisciplinary team at the center is committed to crafting effective solutions that tackle the challenges posed by contemporary urbanization to fortify urban resilience, enhance environmental quality, and nurture community well-being. Moving forward, NBUIS and CEE will continue to pursue high-caliber research to develop cutting-edge nature-based infrastructure solutions, fostering a more sustainable and equitable future for urban residents. Stay tuned for further updates on the transformative work being carried out by this pioneering research center! Visit the below link for the detailed insights and impactful mission of NBUIS: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/cee/~nbuis/index.html   

PolyU CEE Webinar Series: Hong Kong Marine Deposit Improved by Prefabricated Band Drains and Reinforcement

Dr Pei-Chen WU delivered a seminar with the topic of “Hong Kong Marine Deposit Improved by Prefabricated Band Drains and Reinforcement” on 23 October 2024. It was co-organized with HKIE Civil Division. Find the full version of the webinar in the below link: https://youtu.be/lJH906mUQOA  

CEE Departmental Visit - De La Salle Secondary School, N.T (24 Oct)

A group of 24 students from De La Salle Secondary School, N.T. visited CEE on 24 October 2024 (Thursday). Dr Andy Y.F. Leung, Associate Head of CEE, introduced the admission information and the recent developments of the civil engineering industry to the students. To arouse the students’ awareness on air pollution control, Dr. Fan Chunlan taught them some basic knowledge about how to reduce air pollution in our daily life, hoping that could raise their enthusiasm on environmental protection. The students had the opportunity to visit our Air Pollution Laboratory and Waste Research Laboratory, where they were able to monitor the concentration of air pollutants with the devices and watch the waste water management process at a close distance. Prof. C.S. Poon, Head of CEE also join in the visit and had a brief talk with the students.

CEE x CEEAA Job Interview Training Workshop 2024

The 𝐂𝐄𝐄 𝐱 𝐂𝐄𝐄𝐀𝐀 𝐉𝐨𝐛 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 was successfully held on 26 October 2024. With over 30 students registered, the workshop was a vibrant hub of learning and growth. Each student expressed dedication and actively engaged in the sessions. It was exciting to see such enthusiasm and curiosity, as many of them seized the opportunity to speak directly with the interviewers and asked insightful questions.   We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our mock interviewers, including Ir Dr. Goman HO, Ir Kenny LOK, Ir Kelvin TSANG, Ir Can TSUI, Ir Charles YEUNG, and Ir Ron YEUNG — for their generous time, sincere support, and invaluable advice. Their dedication to mentoring our students made an educative impact, creating a nurturing environment for students to explore and refine their skills. By sharing real-world insights, they enhanced students' understanding of the interview process and inspired them to pursue excellence in their studies and careers.   We also express special thanks to Mr. Michael Wong for his invaluable support in reviewing CVs with each student individually. His personalized feedback provided crucial insights to enhance students’ CV presentations.   We believed that the workshop equipped our students with essential interview skills and inspired them with the competencies employers seek in fresh graduates.   Stay connected for more opportunities to learn and grow. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to a bright future!  

HKPolyU ASCE Student Chapter Officially Established

The PolyU ASCE Student Chapter was successfully established on 3 September 2024! The chapter is committed to enhancing civil engineering knowledge among CEE students through a variety of events. By offering professional networking activities, it connects students with peers, mentors, and industry experts, providing valuable guidance and insights. The chapter also plans to provide tailored mentorship and career guidance, helping CEE students navigate their fields and prepare for a dynamic future. Additionally, they plan to host certain competitions and industrial workshops, offering unique opportunities for social and personal growth beyond academics. These activities empower our CEE students to gain insights, build connections, and develop essential skills for their future careers. Stay-tuned for their promotions of the upcoming events! You may visit their social media platforms for more information: IG: @ polyu_cee_asce WeChat Page: Polyuceeasce  

Dr Tony Sze Being Invited to Speak on RTHK Radio 3 Programme

Dr Tony Sze, Associate Professor of CEE, was invited by RTHK Radio 3 to speak on a news programme “Backchat” on 8 October 2024 (Tuesday). The discussion focused on the pressing issue of road safety and cyclist regulations in Hong Kong. Recently, a tragic incident on Lantau Island involving a Mainland cycling vlogger who lost her life after a fatal collision with a tourist coach has brought attention to the escalating risks faced by cyclists. Statistics reveal a doubling in the number of traffic accidents resulting in cyclist fatalities during the first eight months of this year compared to the same period in 2023. Calls have been made to enforce mandatory helmet-wearing for cyclists to enhance overall road safety measures. The imperative for improving traffic regulations, enforcement mechanisms, licensing protocols, advanced traffic management strategies, educational initiatives, and safety campaigns has been underscored. These efforts aim to elevate the safety standards for all road users across Hong Kong. A recording of the programme can be accessed on the RTHK webpage (From 28:04): https://www.rthk.hk/radio/radio3/programme/backchat/episode/980623/autoplay/contentindex/1   

CEEAA Scholarship 2023 Award Presentation

The 𝐂𝐄𝐄𝐀𝐀 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲 was successfully held on 30 September 2024. Congratulations to 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐚𝐧 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐲, CEE fresh graduate from BEng (Hons) in Civil Engineering, on receiving the scholarship! The Scholarship recognizes and honours individual students with outstanding extra-curricular activity achievements and active participation in the events organized by CEEAA.  The 𝐂𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐧𝐢 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐂𝐄𝐄𝐀𝐀) strives to maintain connections among CEE community, PolyU and other organizations. Recreational, social and cultural activities are organized for members to promote friendship, strengthen bonding and initiate professional furtherance. CEEAA welcomes all CEE students to join members for free and enjoy benefits within and outside PolyU.  More details can be referred to https://www.fhkpuaa.org.hk/Join-Us.   

Nature Invitation: Dr Ling Jin’s Team Wrote Commentary on Microbial Risks of Plastic Pollution

𝐃𝐫 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐉𝐢𝐧, Assistant Professor, and his team have been invited by Nature to address the "Microbial Risks of Plastic Pollution", spotlighting the often-overlooked plastisphere microbiomes linked to plastic waste. Their commentary titled "𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐦𝐢𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝’𝐬 𝟕 𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐰𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞?” has been published online on October 3, 2024.  Timed with the fifth meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution (INC-5) in South Korea this November, this publication coincides with global efforts to finalize the UN Plastic Treaty terms, emphasizing critical issue of microbes that thrive on plastics and the biohazard risks they pose. The author team, led by 𝐃𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐨 𝐋𝐢, CEE Postdoctoral Fellow supervised by Dr Jin, alongside distinguished scholars worldwide, stresses the importance of recognizing and tackling the microbial hazards. These insights are pivotal in the ongoing battle against plastic pollution on a global scale.  𝘕𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 is the world’s leading multidisciplinary science journal publishing the finest peer-reviewed research in all fields of science and technology. Nature also is a platform ensure that the results of science are rapidly disseminated to the public throughout the world.  For original article, please refer to: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-03150-6