Media Releases

PolyU develops ultra-stable, record high brightness perovskite LEDs with promising applications

Perovskite materials are significant for enhancing the development and performance of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). However, there are certain technological limitations in advancing overall device efficiency, brightness and lifetime, with the operational stability of Perovskite LEDs (PeLEDs) remaining a major challenge. Researchers from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have made a breakthrough by developing a 3DFAPbI3 perovskite material system that enables high brightness, efficiency and long device lifetime simultaneously. Prof. LI Gang, Sir Sze-yuen Chung Endowed Professor in Renewable Energy, Chair Professor of Energy Conversion Technology of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering of PolyU, together with Postdoctoral Fellow Dr Zhiqi LI, Research Assistant Professor Dr Zhiwei REN, and the rest of the research team, have engineered a novel technology using an alkyl-chain-length-dependent ammonium salt molecule modulation strategy. They elucidated the roles of alkylammonium salts in managing crystal orientation, controlling grain size, suppressing non-radiative recombination, and thereby enhancing device performance. This represents a critical leap towards future applications and commercialisation of efficient and ultra-stable PeLEDs with record brightness. The research team have achieved efficient, ultra-bright, and stable PeLEDs simultaneously, with high  Electroluminescence External Quantum Efficiency of 23.2%, a record radiance of 1,593 W sr−1 m−2 and a much improved record lifetime of 227 h (at a high current density of 100 mA cm−2). This demonstrates the best performance for DC-drive near-infrared PeLEDs at high-brightness and stability levels. Their research “Grain orientation management and recombination suppression for ultra-stable PeLEDs with record brightness”, has been recently published in the energy journal Joule. Prof. Li Gang said, “This strategy suggests that PeLEDs are not only high-efficiency devices in the laboratory but also promising candidates for commercial high-brightness lighting and display applications, competing with commercially available quantum-dot-based and organic LEDs.” The research team revealed that the performance of PeLEDs is strongly affected by the balance among oriented crystallisation, grain size control and suppression of non-radiative recombination. The key to resolving this dilemma lies in adjusting the molecular interaction between the long-chain alkylammonium salts and perovskite nuclei. Alkylammoniums promote oriented crystallization of perovskite film for lighting, while the molecular interaction between alkylammonium and perovskite affects PeLEDs performance. Notably, the team has successfully utilised molecular engineering of long-chain alkylammonium salts to modulate crystallisation kinetics. This breakthrough strategy enables the production of high-efficiency and ultra-brightness near-infrared PeLEDs with ultralong stability, even under large current excitation. In the development of LEDs, PeLEDs possess substantial advantages, including pure colour, a wider display colour gamut range, cost effectiveness and solution processiblity offering greater flexibility in production. The team’s discovery contributes significantly to the advancement of PeLEDs and their technological impact.    ***END***

The 9th executive committee of PolyU CEO Club inaugurated

Chinese version only.

ZEISS Adopts PolyU's Patented Technology to Develop ZEISS MyoCare Myopia Control Lenses for Children; Professional ophthalmic products feature patented myopia control technology, effectively slowing down myopia progression in nearly 90% of child wearers

The School of Optometry of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and ZEISS Vision Care (ZEISS) announced their latest collaborative initiative, ZEISS MyoCare Myopia Control Spectacle Lenses (ZEISS MyoCare Lenses). The lenses utilise PolyU's patented Defocus Incorporated Soft Contact (DISC) technology for myopia management. Through this collaboration, the two parties joined forces to drive better control and management of myopia in children globally. This collaboration has enabled ZEISS to adopt PolyU’s patented DISC technology in its specialist optical products, integrating authoritative academic ophthalmic research with cutting-edge ophthalmological technology to provide the public with new effective professional vision care solutions. The ZEISS MyoCare Lenses uses PolyU’s DISC technology, its patented design adds a set of specialised optical microstructures to the general refractive myopia correction optical structure. The two sets of optical structures are arranged alternately on the lens surface. The corrective area projects the image onto the retina, allowing the wearer to see a clear image, while the optical microstructures project another set of images in front of the retina, i.e., the "forward optical defocus" signal, utilising the eye's natural emmetropisation feedback mechanism to guide the eye and slow down the growth of the eyeball axis of myopic patients. The technology is completely non-invasive and has undergone multiple basic experiments and clinical verifications, proven to be safe, effective and without significant side effects. ZEISS MyoCare Lenses also incorporate patented ZEISS C.A.R.E.® technology. It can effectively decelerate the rate of myopia progression by 48% to 63% and diminish axial length increase by 41% to 77%. Furthermore, these lenses provide wearers with clear vision regardless of viewing distance and direction, and are easy to adapt to, with over 95% of child wearers able to adapt to the lenses within three days. A recent 12-month research report shows that nearly 90% of children wearing ZEISS MyoCare Lenses experienced slow annual myopia progression, compared to 51% of children wearing single vision lenses experiencing fast progression. Moreover, ZEISS MyoCare lenses slowed eye growth from that of a myopic eye to approach that of an emmetropic eye by nearly 70%. Mitigating the Risk of Myopia Progression in Children with Parental Myopia Research confirmed that genetic factors, such as having parents with myopia, increases a child's risk of developing myopia. However, a 12-month clinical study has shown that compared to wearing regular single vision lenses, using ZEISS MyoCare Lenses can effectively slow down myopia progression, even for children with myopic parents, who are especially at risk of developing myopia. This indicates that these lenses can help parents with myopia reduce the increased risk of myopia development in their children, essentially breaking the cycle of worsening myopia each generation. Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, said, "PolyU has always been committed to promoting technology transfer. The DISC technology for myopia management is an excellent example to demonstrate how academic research can be transformed into effective industry solutions, offering an additional option in the market for those in need. It is a great pleasure to collaborate with ZEISS, a leading optical brand, to jointly strive for excellence in the development of myopia control for the benefit of community." Mr David Ferran, Vice president, Latin America, Iberia & Asia -C, Vision Care Business Group, ZEISS, added, "ZEISS has been working closely with PolyU for many years. Through this collaboration, we will jointly develop more innovative technologies, aiming to bring the best ophthalmological technology into vision correction solutions, collectively addressing the threat posed by myopia and promoting the well-being of children worldwide.” Mr Calvin Kwan, President of The Hong Kong Optometric Association, said: "Myopia is a serious issue among Hong Kong children, and age 6 to 12 years old is the ‘golden period’ for myopia control. Parents should seize the opportunity to provide the best and most effective myopia control measures for their children, safeguarding their eye health and preventing the development of high myopia and other long-term eye health problems.”   ***END***

PolyU and Zhongshan jointly establish technology and innovation research institute to advance development of biomedicine

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Zhongshan Municipal People’s Government (Zhongshan Government) officially signed a cooperation agreement on 30 July to jointly establish the “PolyU-Zhongshan Technology and Innovation Research Institute”. This collaboration marks an important step forward for both parties in promoting the development of biomedicine in the two regions and enhancing industry-academia-research cooperation. Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President led a delegation to participate in the 2024 Zhongshan Global Investment Promotion Conference, where the cooperation agreement signing ceremony for the Research Institute was also held. Witnessed by Mr GUO Wenhai, Secretary of the CPC Zhongshan Municipal Committee; Mr XIAO Zhanxin, Deputy Secretary of the Zhongshan Municipal Party Committee and Mayor of Zhongshan City; Prof. Gary WONG, Chair Professor of the Department of Chemistry at PolyU; and Mr Victor ZHAO, Assistant Director of the Research and Innovation Office at PolyU, the agreement was signed by Mr YE Hongguang, Member of the Leading Party Group of the Zhongshan People’s Government and Vice Mayor of Zhongshan City, and Prof. Wing-tak WONG, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU. Prof. Teng stated, “Our collaboration with the Zhongshan Government to establish this Institute aligns in terms of timing, geographical advantage and our strong working relationship. This is not only an important milestone in the development of our university but also a starting point for jointly promoting innovative technology development with Zhongshan. The establishment of the Institute will inject new momentum into the economic and social development of Zhongshan, as well as responding to President XI Jinping’s call to make good use of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Corridor, promoting the integration of the east and west banks of the Pearl River Estuary, strengthening innovation and technology cooperation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and advancing industry-academia-research transfer to empower new quality productive forces in the region.” The Institute will focus on the field of biomedicine, particularly independent research and development of pharmaceutical products, and is committed to improving community healthcare. The Institute will also closely collaborate with hospitals in Zhongshan, promoting the translation of research outcomes through industry-academia-research cooperation to benefit the public. The opening of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Corridor enhances transportation and the flow of personnel, capital and technology between the two cities, helping Zhongshan better integrate into the overall GBA development. Serving as a hub for innovative technology, the Institute aspires to provide robust technical support for the industrial upgrading and act as a catalyst for the economic development of Zhongshan. This cooperation not only strengthens the connection between PolyU and the Zhongshan Government, but also promotes their joint efforts to seize and embrace the immense opportunities brought about by innovative technology.   ***END***

PolyU innovations garner nine awards at the Silicon Valley International Inventions Festival

PolyU research teams garnered nine prestigious awards at the 2024 Silicon Valley International Inventions Festival (SVIIF), including a semi-grand prize, two special prizes, five gold medals and one silver medal. SVIIF was held from 26 to 28 July 2024 in Santa Clara, California. Led by Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Vice President (Research and Innovation), the PolyU research teams and startups showcased their innovations on the international stage, connecting with investors and business partners worldwide to raise the University’s global profile. This year, PolyU’s award-winning research projects spanned healthcare devices, advanced materials, artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) and sensing technology. Among them, the project “ICU-grade Wireless Breathable Cardiac Electronic Skin” led by Prof. ZHENG Zijian, Chair Professor of Soft Materials and Devices of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, snatched a Semi-grand Prize of SVIIF and a gold medal. This invention provides a seamless, continuous, comfortable, non-invasive and inflammation-free electrocardiogram monitoring solution with ICU-grade accuracy without traditional wired and bulky clinical devices. Developed by Prof. Joanne Yip, Associate Dean (Industrial Partnership) and Professor of the School of Fashion and Textiles and her team, the project “Development of Intelligent Nighttime Brace with Smart Padding to Treat Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis” was awarded the Prize of the Korea Invention Promotion Association and a gold medal. In addition, the project “3D Printed Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) Bone Scaffolds” led by Prof. ZHAO Xin, Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology and Founder of PolyU academic-led start-up ReNew Biotechnology Limited, received the Prize of the Croatian Union Innovators and a silver medal. Prof. Christopher Chao is impressed with the great accomplishments of the PolyU award-winning teams and stated, “PolyU’s multiple awards at SVIIF serve as a testament to the increasing international recognition of its research and innovations. The University will continue to uphold its motto ‘To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’, advancing the development of science and technology and translation of research outcomes into real-world solutions to address future societal challenges and improve the standard of living globally.” SVIIF, which is the largest event of its kind in the United States, this year drew participation from approximately 30 countries and regions, representing a wide array of academic institutions, research institutes and enterprises. Supported and attended by multinational corporations, investors and entrepreneurs, the event serves as a crucial platform for inventors and the business community to explore commercialisation opportunities and seek partnerships. To learn more about these PolyU’s award-winning projects, please refer to the Appendix or visit the website of the PolyU Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office. Project Principal Investigator(s) Award(s) ICU-grade Wireless Breathable Cardiac Electronic Skin   Prof. ZHENG Zijian Chair Professor of Soft Materials and Devices, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology of PolyU; Associate Director, Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems, and University Research Facility in Materials Characterisation and Device Fabrication   Semi-Grand Prize Gold Medal     Development of Intelligent Nighttime Brace with Smart Padding to Treat Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Prof. Joanne YIP Associate Dean (Industrial Partnership); Professor, School of Fashion and Textiles of PolyU   Prof. Raymond TONG Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong   Prof. Kenneth M.C. CHEUNG Jessie Ho Professor in Spine Surgery, Chair Professor, The University of Hong Kong; Hospital Chief Executive, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital Prize of the Korea Invention Promotion Association Gold Medal 3D Printed Triply Periodic Minimal Surface Bone Scaffolds     Prof. ZHAO Xin Professor, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology of PolyU; Founder, ReNew Biotechnology Limited (a PolyU academic-led startup)   Prize of the Croatian Union of Innovators   Silver Medal Thick Glassy Carbon Manufacturing and Physical Property Adjustment through Heat Treatment   Mr YANG Yi PhD Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering of PolyU; Founder, Discarbonery Technology Limited (a PolyU startup) Gold Medal Edge AI-empowered Smart Devices and Robotics for AIoT Applications     Prof. CAO Jiannong Dean, PolyU Graduate School; Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Professor in Data Science; Chair Professor of Distributed and Mobile Computing; Director, Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things, and University Research Facility in Big Data Analytics   Gold Medal MicroFish: A Lab-on-a-chip for On-site Detection of Microbial Contamination and Pollutants     Dr CHUA Song Lin Assistant Professor, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology of PolyU; Co-founder, Microfish Limited (a PolyU academic-led startup)   Dr LIU Yang Sylvia GBA Startup Postdoctoral Fellow, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology of PolyU; Co-founder, Microfish Limited (a PolyU academic-led startup) Dr KHOO Bee Luan Assistant Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong   Gold Medal                                                                                                             ***END***

PolyU scholar discovers key mechanism of intraocular pressure regulation suggesting novel treatment approaches for glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness. According to statistics from the Hospital Authority, in Hong Kong, three out of every 100 individuals aged over 40 suffer from glaucoma. In its early stages, obvious symptoms may not be present and those less obvious are often overlooked. By the time patients notice changes in their vision, the condition is usually severe. Dr Samantha SHAN, Research Assistant Professor of the School of Optometry of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and her team have discovered the mechanism of intraocular pressure (IOP) regulation, paving the way for novel treatment approaches for glaucoma, with the aspiration of preventing vision loss from this disease. In glaucoma patients, the fluid within the eye (known as “aqueous humour”) continuously flows, resulting in higher IOP for which long-term medication is required. However, current drugs have limitations in that they can only slow disease progression rather than halt it completely. Drugs may also have suboptimal tolerability and their efficacy diminish over time. The microRNA(miR)-17-92 cluster is known to play an important role in cell signalling, but its specific functions in the eye are not well understood. In this respect, Dr Shan and her team’s research focus lies in gaining insights into the mechanisms of miR-17-92 cluster members and their effects on IOP. The team has identified thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) as a protein that reduces the outflow of aqueous humour and increases IOP. Concurrently, the team mimicked three members of the miR-17-92 cluster in human trabecular meshwork (hTM) cells which are responsible for draining aqueous humour within the eye. It showed that the expression of TSP-1 was repressed, resulting in an approximately 73% increase in the outflow of aqueous humour in mice. Dr Shan’s team has recently been recognised with a prestigious 2024 Shaffer Research Grant from the Glaucoma Research Foundation to further explore the effects of miR-17-92 members in IOP regulation. Looking forward, the team will investigate the direct interaction between specific miRNAs and TSP-1 by blocking the potential target sites of the three miRNAs in TSP-1 in hTM cells. They will also examine the functional consequences of modulating this pathway on aqueous humour outflow and IOP regulation in vivo. This would be achieved by utilising intravitreal injections of a TSP-1 target-specific blocker or miRNA mimics in mouse eyes. Dr Shan remarked, “Genomic and proteomic approaches play a crucial role in understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying diseases such as glaucoma. In the context of glaucoma treatment, these approaches can help identify potential biomarkers, therapeutic targets and personalised treatment options, with far-reaching implications. The Grant also demonstrates PolyU’s excellence as hosting one of the top eye research centres in the world. It encourages me and my team to continue to make significant strides in glaucoma research and contribute to the better care of glaucoma patients.” With over a decade of experience in molecular research, in her work, Dr Shan has demonstrated proficiency in utilising genomic and proteomic approaches. Her research interests are mechanism of aqueous humour formation, outflow facility and IOP regulation, microRNAs on outflow facility, DNA methylation of potential candidates on outflow facility and IOP regulation. Dr Shan has also received support from the Hong Kong SAR Government’s Health and Medical Research Fund for two projects as a principal investigator. The projects aim to discover gene editing methods for treating glaucoma and unravel the role of epigenetic regulation in glaucoma respectively. Dr Shan has also served as a co-investigator on other diverse research topics and has secured notable research funding, including the Research Grants Council’s General Research Fund. ***END***  

HKSAR government officials and LegCo Members gather at PolyU for friendly futsal match; Chief Executive officiates at the match to cheer for the Hong Kong, China delegation to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

The HKSAR Government Football Team and the Legislative Council Football Team organised a friendly indoor futsal match at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Sports Centre today. The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Mr John LEE, and the President of the Legislative Council, Hon. Andrew LEUNG Kwan-yuen, officiated at the friendly match and cheered for the Hong Kong, China Delegation to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. PolyU Acting President, Prof. Wing-tak WONG, and Executive Vice President, Dr Miranda LOU, extended a warm welcome to the Chief Executive. Joined by HKSAR government officials and Members of the Legislative Council (LegCo), they chanted the slogan “Stand shoulder to shoulder in support of the Hong Kong team and cheer for Hong Kong athletes” to cheer on the Hong Kong team and wish the Hong Kong athletes every success in the upcoming competitions. PolyU Council Chairman Dr LAM Tai Fai, President Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, and hundreds of PolyU faculty members and students participating in the service-learning programme in Rwanda, Africa, extended their congratulations on the success of the match. Dr Lam Tai-fai stated: “We warmly welcome Members of LegCo and HKSAR government officials to get together at PolyU for a friendly match that not only sharpens their futsal skills but also demonstrates team spirit. We believe that this game will contribute to fostering constructive and interactive relationships between the executive and the legislature. Additionally, I extend my best wishes for the success of the Hong Kong team in this year’s Olympic Games. Following their worthy performance in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, I am sure they will continue to strive for even greater success at the Paris Olympic Games and bring glory to Hong Kong.” Hon. Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen expressed his sincere gratitude to PolyU for providing the match venue and deploying professional staff to offer full assistance. He also commended the University for its warm hospitality and meticulous arrangements, as well as for working closely with the HKSAR government and the LegCo Secretariat, which contributed to the success of the match.    ***END***

Two PolyU projects awarded RGC Theme-based Research Scheme Funding for sustainable impacts

Two research projects led by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have won over HK$100 million funding from the Research Grants Council’s Theme-based Research Scheme 2024/25 to advance emerging research and innovations important to Hong Kong . PolyU has secured this substantial funding support for its impactful inter-disciplinary research, contributing to Hong Kong’s sustainable development. Prof. TAO, Xiaoming, Vincent and Lily Woo Professor in Textile Technology, Chair Professor of Textile Technology of the School of Fashion and Textiles and Director of the Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems, leads the project “Mechanisms and Key Technologies of Multi-Sensory Emulation Wearable Devices,” which has been awarded funding of HK$62.37 million. Prof. Johan Hoorn, Professor of the School of Design and Department of Computing, leads the project “Social Robots with Embedded Large Language Models Releasing Stress among the Hong Kong Population,” which has received funding of HK$40.89 million. Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, said, “Fully demonstrating the University's exceptional interdisciplinary research capabilities, these PolyU projects have wide-ranging application potential and bring tangible benefits to society. PolyU has consistently performed excellently in the Theme-based Research Scheme, supporting our efforts to make important contributions to Hong Kong's long-term development. We will continue to expand innovative and cutting-edge research that enhances wellbeing and leads to a brighter future.” Prof. TAO’s project aims to lead global research in multi-sensory emulation wearable devices, capitalising on PolyU’s exceptional multidisciplinary expertise and facilities in flexible materials, sensors and actuators for the Internet of Things (IoT), wearable and biomedical applications, electronic fabrics, mathematics for artificial intelligence, acoustics and signal processing. This research has far-reaching impacts that extend beyond the development of novel fibre-based multi-sensory emulation wearable devices. Ultimately, it also contributes to diverse social and industrial fields, encompassing healthcare, IoT, smart cities, art technology, robotics, education, sports, fashion and textiles, and personal protection. Prof. Hoorn’s project is undertaken to provide psychological support for Hong Kong people, of whom it is estimated 61% experience stress, anxiety, depression or negative moods. It utilises Embedded Large Language Models to train social robots, incorporating localised cultural and personal data. The research aims to bring personalised mental care to individuals who may otherwise be overlooked by the formal medical care system. In addition to the development of social robots and avatars for mobile applications connected to the new HK AI-hub, the project will also develop a new software architecture for distributed computing, scalability and privacy protection. The innovation will benefit the working population of Hong Kong, care professionals, social workers, and AI and robotics developers. It is also planned to establish an online platform for developers of robot and avatar solutions, with a focus on the care domain, as well as also catering to other fields including education, hospitality and entertainment.   PolyU projects funded by the Theme-based Research Scheme 2024/25 Project Coordinator Prof. Tao Xiaoming Vincent and Lily Woo Professor in Textile Technology Chair Professor of Textile Technology of the School of Fashion and Textiles Director of the Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems Project Title Mechanisms and Key Technologies of Multi-Sensory Emulation Wearable Devices (MSEWDs) Abstract This project aims to emulate the less enhanced yet urgently needed sensations of touch (tactile) and smell (olfactory) through a study of multi-sensory emulation wearable devices (MSEWDs) that reveals their operational mechanisms, and to develop relevant key technologies and applications. First-of-its-kind emulation mechanisms based on fibrous structures and their bionic actuation devices will be developed for delivering mixed scents and tactile sensations. Leveraging AI models to link measured signals obtained by biosensors and algorithms for controlling the bionic emulation devices will offer more immersive experiences.   The target of the MSEWDs include: A device that senses and simulates olfactory sensation by AI-controlled scent-making and dispersion of mixed scents; A fabric tactile emulator that senses and tunes reactive forces and temperature by changing its rigidity, dimension, surface morphology and thermoelectric properties; and A wearable fabric-based acoustic stethoscope that continuously detects the location and intensity of sound generated from human internal organs.   This project has great potential to fundamentally alter metaverse technology and influence industrial fields as diverse as healthcare, IoT, art technology, robotics, sports, fashion, textiles and beyond. Approved Budget* HKD 62.378 million   Project Coordinator Prof. Johan Hoorn Professor of the School of Design and Department of Computing Project Title Social Robots with Embedded Large Language Models Releasing Stress among the Hong Kong Population Abstract This project will develop human-like at-home social robots with embedded large language models, using localised cultural and personal data to provide customised mental health support for the mentally under-served population in Hong Kong. Complementary on-screen avatars for mobile applications will also be delivered. A new software architecture will enable distributed computing, scalability and privacy protection. Training protocols, logic-symbolic AI and design guidelines will be created for novel methods and functionality, evaluated in situ by local communities. This will inform a communication model capable of predicting and recognising signs of stress or low mood and intervening with empathetic dialogue, help-seeking information or professional care referrals.   The long-term goal is to reduce the burden on Hong Kong's formal mental health system while empowering citizens to better self-manage their well-being through accessible AI-driven social support.   The working population, especially care professionals and social workers, stand to benefit, alongside an established online platform for AI and robotics developers in the care domain and open to other fields including education, hospitality, and entertainment. Approved Budget* HKD 40.899 million *RGC provides 90% of the approved budget and the remaining 10% will be provided by the coordinating University.   ***END***

PolyU scholar conferred as RGC Senior Research Fellow, spearheading circular economy for global sustainable goal

Rigorous research is crucial to drive the development of the circular economy (CE) for global sustainable production and consumption. In pursuit of this research goal to meet societal needs, Prof. Christina WONG, Professor of the School of Fashion and Textiles and Director of Research and Innovation of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has been awarded by the Research Grants Council’s (RGC) Senior Research Fellow Scheme (SFRS) with a total grant of approximately HK$8 million. Prof. Wong has been granted the title of “RGC Senior Research Fellow.” Her research project aims to enhance CE governance and promote its institutionalisation and performance impacts. The CE represents a model of production and consumption in which products and materials are cycled back into the economy until the end of their useful life, thereby reducing global material extraction. However, only 7.2% of global resources that enter the market are recovered and recycled annually, according to the Circularity Gap Report published at the World Economic Forum in 2023. Despite governments’ efforts in setting action plans and policies on the CE, collective industrial efforts are essential for monitoring and controlling waste and resource efficiency. Considering the knowledge gap on CE governance and its benefits, the research addresses this challenge by demonstrating how different business conditions affect CE governance performance and subsequently driving the establishment of CE governance. Prof. Wong said, “Receiving this funding award greatly encourages my research in sustainable goal concerning responsible consumption and production. The exceptional capacity, academic and research expertise, specialised facilities, and interdisciplinary resources at PolyU have extensively supported our research, empowering us to generate profound societal impacts.” The SRFS aims to provide sustained support to exceptionally outstanding researchers at the UGC-funded universities in Hong Kong. The supporting university receives a fellowship grant of around HK$8 million per award, over a period of 60 months. Research detail: Project Coordinator Prof. Christina Wong Professor of the School of Fashion and Textiles Director of Research and Innovation Office Project Title Beyond Regulatory Exertion: Circular Economy Governance, and its Institutionalization and Performance Impacts Abstract This project aims to deepen the understanding of Circular Economy (CE) governance and guidelines, promoting the adoption and production of recyclable material products among value chain partners. By demonstrating how various business environment conditions affect CE governance performance and the resulting business outcomes, this project will provide managerial and policy insights, encouraging corporates compliance with governance rules related to product design, production, and end-of-life treatment, ultimately practising environmental responsibility, reducing waste, and avoiding the use of virgin resources. In the long run, these efforts collectively contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG 12).   ***END***

PolyU unveils the PolyU-Nanjing Technology and Innovation Research Institute and establishes the PolyU Jiangsu Alumni Network

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Gulou District of Nanjing Municipal People’s Government held an unveiling ceremony on 6 July in Nanjing, to mark the official establishment of the PolyU-Nanjing Technology and Innovation Research Institute (the Research Institute). The Research Institute’s goal is to leverage PolyU’s research resources to promote bilateral exchanges in education, science and technology, and talent between Hong Kong and Nanjing. The aim is to create a top-quality, domestic and international strategic technology innovation platform. This platform will facilitate project implementation, incubation and industrialisation. Ms HAN Liming, Member of the Standing Committee of CPC Jiangsu Provincial Committee and Secretary of CPC Nanjing Committee, has been deeply involved in this collaboration and has had in-depth discussions with Dr LAM Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU, regarding the Research Institute’s development. Ms Han Liming (right), Member of the Standing Committee of CPC Jiangsu Provincial Committee and Secretary of CPC Nanjing Committee, has been deeply involved in this collaboration and has had in-depth discussions with Dr Lam Tai-fai (left), Council Chairman of PolyU. The unveiling ceremony, signifying the official establishment of the Research Institute in Nanjing, was witnessed by Dr Lam Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU; Dr Miranda LOU, Executive Vice President of PolyU; Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU; Prof. ZHANG Dan, Director of the PolyU-Nanjing Technology and Innovation Research Institute; Mr CHEN Zhichang, Deputy Secretary of CPC Nanjing Committee and Mayor of Nanjing; Mr Xu Guanghui, Director of the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Science and Technology; Mr WU Wei, Vice Mayor of Nanjing; Mr. HONG Lilai, Secretary-General of Nanjing; and Mr WANG Anwei, Secretary of the Gulou District Committee. In his speech, Dr Lam Tai-fai highlighted that PolyU has nurtured nearly 500,000 alumni over the past 87 years and is currently ranked 57th in the QS World University Rankings. The University will collaborate with enterprises and the government in the Nanjing region to fully leverage the strengths of both Nanjing and Hong Kong, promote technological innovation, and foster the deep integration of government, industry, academia and research, providing strong support for local economic and social development. PolyU hopes the Research Institute will become a globally influential technology innovation incubation base, injecting new momentum into Nanjing’s scientific research development and contributing to the Nation’s technological innovation. Mr Chen Zhichang, Deputy Secretary of the Nanjing Municipal Committee and Mayor, stated in his speech that the establishment of the Research Institute signifies the alignment of PolyU and the Nanjing Municipal People’s Government and their goals in pursuing technological innovation. With complementary research strengths, both parties aim to achieve mutual benefits and win-win results. Adhering to a spirit of innovative thinking, the Research Institute will explore strategic emerging industries and advances in fields such as the next generation of artificial intelligence. Mr Wang Anwei, Secretary of the Gulou District Committee, emphasised in his speech that General Secretary Xi Jinping highlighted at the National Science and Technology Conference and the National Science and Technology Awards Conference that technological innovation is crucial to implementing Chinese-style modernisation. The establishment of the Research Institute will help Jiangsu build new quality productive forces and implement the directions laid out in important speeches of General Secretary Xi Jinping. Gulou District will actively integrate the educational resources, research facilities of local universities, research institutions and enterprises to provide support for the Research Institute and offer various government services and talent services. Representatives of the Research Institute gave presentations focusing on research areas that included artificial intelligence, life and health, green construction and the environment, as well as introducing the Institute’s overall development direction and construction plans to government representatives, and guests from other research institutions and enterprises. The Institute will set up four research centres: “Intelligent Robotics and Mechatronics Research Centre”, “Artificial Intelligence of Things Innovation Research Centre”, “Intelligent Construction Research Centre”, and “Healthy Vision Innovation Research Centre”. These Centres will collaborate deeply with the Gulou District Government, providing cutting-edge technology innovation research and development services to enterprises and research institutions, and thus aiming to transform Nanjing into a world-class smart city and promote technological innovation in these fields. Additionally, to strengthen the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation, promote new industries, new business models, and explore new development opportunities, the Research Institute signed multiple framework agreements with 13 partners, including Nanjing Port Group Co., Ltd, the Affiliated Eye Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, and the Department of Computer Science and Technology at Nanjing University. Following the Research Centre unveiling ceremony and to celebrate the establishment of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Jiangsu Alumni Network, PolyU held an inaugural celebration and dinner. Over 300 guests gathered to share this joyous moment. The establishment of the Jiangsu Alumni Network reinforces the strength of the PolyU mainland alumni network and its aim of promoting mainland alumni activities and enabling the University to participate more actively in national development. ***END***