News

PolyU Computing Department Tour 2023: Sparked Inspiration among Senior Secondary Students Towards a Bright IT Future

Our department in collaboration with One Lab Incubation Limited and with the support of the Business-School Partnership Programme by the Education Bureau, successfully co-organised two sessions of the “PolyU Computing Department Tour 2023”. The events were held on 3 Nov and 16 Nov, respectively, attracting over 140 senior secondary students and their teachers. The objective of the tour was to provide students with valuable insights into the latest technologies in computing and AI, as well as career development in this field. The event featured expert guest speakers from leading multi-national IT companies. Mr Anthony LEE, Senior Director of the Oracle Technology Service Team, Hong Kong and Taiwan Region, delivered a captivating presentation on how advanced technologies contribute to the success of extreme sports teams. Mr Kenneth WONG, Business Development Team Lead of Google Cloud, shared his view on the impact of generative AI on the education industry. The event also included an IT career talk by Mr Sky TANG, Chairman of CHUNS Group, as well as our departmental outstanding alumnus. Mr TANG shared his experiences and encouraged students to explore entrepreneurship and seize opportunities in the ever-evolving world of technology. As part of the tour, participants also had the chance to explore three laboratories at PolyU, including the HiVE (Hybrid Immersive Virtual Environment Lab), Game Lab and Research Centre on Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Through participating in the event, secondary school students could learn from industry pioneers and keep abreast of cutting-edge equipment and facilities available in the field, which would spark inspiration and guidance that leads them towards smart future planning.

Dr YANG Lei and his team received the Best Paper Award (Runner-Up) and Graduate Award at ACM MobiCom 2023

The research paper titled "NeRF2: Neural Radio-Frequency Radiance Fields" published by Dr Lei YANG’s team was awarded the Best Paper Award (Runner-up) at the 29th Annual International Conference on Mobile Computing and Networking (ACM MobiCom 2023). The co-authors of the paper are Dr Zhenlin AN, postdoctoral fellow and Ms Qingrui PAN and Mr Xiaopeng ZHAO, our PhD students. The paper proposes a model called Neural Radio-Frequency Radiance Fields (NeRF^2), which is designed to predict the propagation of Radio Frequency (RF) signals in complex environments. The team trained the NeRF^2 model with a few signal measurements to predict the behaviour of a signal at any position when the location of a transmitter is known. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of NeRF^2 in applications such as indoor localisation and 5G MIMO technology. Read the paper: https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3570361.3592527   Additionally, the team also received a Graduate Award at ACM MobiCom 2023 for a demo developed by Dr YANG, Dr AN, Mr ZHAO and two COMP PhD students, Mr Jingyu TONG and Mr Sicong LIAO. This demo, namely “Radio Frequency Neural Networks for Wireless Sensing”, introduces an innovative architecture called RF Neural Network (RFNN) that emulates the functionalities of a conventional neural network in proximity to or within sensors. Leveraging reconfigurable metasurfaces, RFNN enables high-speed calculations on raw RF signals, offering processing capabilities at the speed of light. The initial findings highlight RFNN's potential in various wireless sensing applications, including material classification, localisation, and gesture recognition, while operating with minimal power consumption. This research holds promise for optimising the sensing capabilities of IoT devices.   ACM MobiCom is a renowned global conference focused on mobile computing and wireless networking. The conference, sponsored by ACM SIGMOBILE, showcases cutting-edge research in areas such as mobile cloud computing, 5G networks, and IoT. It is well-regarded for its rigorous review process and attracts attendees from both academia and industry.

Prof. Allen AU & Prof. Daniel LUO Honoured with BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize 2023 in FinTech

The laureates of 2023 of the BOCHK Science and Technology Innovation Prize (STIP) were announced on 1 Nov. We are proud that two of our Professors, Prof. Allen AU and Prof. Daniel LUO, have been awarded the laureates of STIP in FinTech. They collaborated to develop innovative algorithms that enhance the security of blockchain ecosystems, safeguarding assets, systems, and network integrity. Their groundbreaking work has significantly influenced the advancement of financial technology applications built on blockchain platforms.   Prof. AU’s research primarily focuses on information security, privacy protection, applied cryptography, and blockchain technology and its applications. Prof. LUO's expertise lies in blockchain and smart contract security, software and system security, as well as IoT and network security. Together, their contributions have strengthened the cryptographic foundations of blockchain technology, contributing to its wider adoption and secure implementation.   Established in 2022 by the Hong Kong Alliance of Technology and Innovation, STIP aims at recognising the scholars and experts from Hong Kong and overseas who have exceptional contributions to scientific research and influence the transformation of R&D outcomes in Hong Kong. The award categories include Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, Life and Health, New Materials and New Energy, Advanced Manufacturing and FinTech. The laureates of each category will receive an award of HK$2 million. This recognition not only acknowledges their research achievements but also supports the transformation of their outcomes, benefiting the scientific community and society as a whole.  

COMP Makes Significant Leap, Surging 10 Places to Secure 34th Rank in Global Ranking of Academic Subjects

We are delighted to announce that our department has achieved an impressive ranking in the ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS) for the year 2023. According to the latest rankings released on 27 Oct 2023, our department has secured the 34th position globally, marking a remarkable leap from our previous ranking of 44th in 2022.   The GRAS rankings evaluate universities across 55 subjects in disciplines across Engineering, Natural Sciences, Life Sciences, Medical Sciences, and Social Sciences. Out of over 500 universities worldwide, our department has emerged as one of the top institutions in the field of Computer Science & Engineering.   Our achievement in climbing the ranks reflects our dedication to excel in research, education and innovation. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our academic staff, research staff, and students, who have consistently contributed to the advancement of knowledge in our field.   For more information about the Global Ranking of Academic Subjects and the complete list of rankings, please visit the official ShanghaiRanking website at https://www.shanghairanking.com/rankings/gras/2023/RS0210

Dr YANG Lei and his team won Best Paper Award at IEEE SECON 2023

Dr YANG Lei, our Associate Professor, along with Dr Zhenlin AN, postdoctoral fellow and Ms Qingrui PAN and Mr Xiaopeng ZHAO, our PhD students,  received Best Paper Award at IEEE SECON 2023.   Their research paper titled "Revisiting Backscatter Frequency Drifts for Fingerprinting RFIDs: A Perspective of Frequency Resolution" was honoured with the Best Paper Award at the 20th Annual IEEE International Conference on Sensing, Communication, and Networking (IEEE SECON 2023).   Researchers have been aware of the potential of utilising the backscatter frequency drift (BFD) as a unique fingerprint for Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags for over a decade. By comparing the discrepancy between the actual backscatter frequency and the requested backscatter link frequency (BLF), it is possible to identify the RFID tags at the physical layer. However, the efficacy of this method has been limited due to a low success rate.   Addressing this issue, this paper suggests a new perspective on the low success rate – a low resolution in frequency measurement. In other words, the measurement lacks sufficient ability to effectively distinguish the slight difference in frequency in BFD, resulting in inaccurate results. To overcome this limitation, this paper introduces an innovative solution by significantly augmenting the frequency resolution to enhance the distinctiveness of BFD, thereby the accuracy of identification can be improved, especially when handling a diverse range of RFID tags.   Read the paper: https://web.comp.polyu.edu.hk/csyanglei/data/files/bfdplus-secon23.pdf   IEEE SECON is a distinguished avenue that offers a collaborative space for scholars, industry experts, standards creators, and policymakers to discuss, exchange, and promote ideas and advancements in the realms of sensor, ad hoc, and mesh networks and systems.

Highlights of PolyU Info Day 2023

PolyU successfully hosted its much-anticipated Info Day 2023 on 21 October, attracting a diverse range of secondary school students, parents, and individuals seeking master's degree programmes. The event aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the academic programmes and featured a wide array of engaging activities that left attendees inspired and informed.   Our department offered a range of engaging activities, including an interactive booth where visitors had the opportunity to meet our programme leaders and teaching staff. It also showcased two Virtual Reality (VR) capstone projects created by our graduates. Visitors were able to immerse themselves in these VR demonstrations, experiencing the possible outcomes that can be achieved by studying our undergraduate programme.   To provide firsthand information about each programme's admission figures, requirements and distinctive features, COMP arranged individual sessions of Info Seminars for all BSc and MSc programmes, and nearly 400 participants attended our seminars.   This year, COMP organised in-depth guided tours for participants. Instead of rushing through the facilities, the tours began with a half-hour Game Design Workshop, which provided hands-on experience in designing games using Unity, a popular game development platform. Participants learned the fundamentals of game design while exploring their creativity. In addition, they had the opportunity to explore the department's state-of-the-art facilities, including the AI coffee system and a CAVE system showcasing an immersive project in collaboration with the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital. At the end of each tour, visitors enjoyed an exclusive chance to receive personalised consultation and gain guidance from our seasoned academic staff.  

PolyU and HKMA sign MoU to establish CBDC Expert Group

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), together with four other local universities, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) Expert Group on 20 October 2023, which aims to support the HKMA’s exploration of key policy and technical issues surrounding CBDC. The MoU signifies a strategic partnership aimed at fostering collaboration and gathering expert insights from technical, analytical and academic perspectives on various topics related to CBDC. The establishment of the Expert Group demonstrates mutual recognition of the pivotal role played by financial technology (fintech) and CBDC in Hong Kong’s development landscape. This collaboration aims to promote interdisciplinary discussion on CBDC and address pertinent fintech issues, thus contributing to Hong Kong’s continued success in maintaining its status as an international financial centre. Prof. H.C. MAN, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering of PolyU and Mr Colin POU, Executive Director (Financial Infrastructure) of HKMA signed the MoU, witnessed by PolyU representatives including Prof. Christina WONG, Director of Research and Innovation Office; Prof. Qing LI, Head of the Department of Computing; Prof. Allen Man Ho AU, Professor of the Department of Computing, and Prof. Daniel Xiapu LUO, Professor of the Department of Computing. Prof. Man endorsed the formation of the CBDC Expert Group, stating that, “Our faculty is committed to advancing fintech and CBDC research and development in Hong Kong through promoting innovation, collaboration and knowledge exchange.” As part of this initiative, PolyU and HKMA will collaborate closely on a range of topics related to CBDC, leveraging their respective expertise and resources. The CBDC Expert Group, which includes Prof. Au and Prof. Luo as founding members, will serve as a platform for exchanging knowledge, sharing insights, and exploring innovative solutions in CBDC and other emerging fintech areas. Prof. Li said, “Our expertise in influential research and innovation has primed our department in shaping the future of CBDC as a focal point in the field of finance.” Prof. Au and Prof. Luo expressed their excitement about joining the CBDC Expert Group, saying “We strive to conduct pioneering research that instils public trust in CBDC by tackling privacy and security challenges, reinforcing our commitment to an advanced financial system.” [From PolyU Media Release]

Successful Conclusion of "Metaverse Creators of Tomorrow" Competition and Training Programme 2023

The highly anticipated "Metaverse Creators of Tomorrow” Competition and Training Programme, organised by the Department of Computing, has successfully concluded its journey at the closing ceremony held on 9 September. This groundbreaking programme provided a platform for local secondary school students to unleash their creativity and explore the unlimited possibilities of the metaverse, a concept closely intertwined with Web 3.0 that envisions the future of the internet. To bridge university education and STEM education in secondary school, participants received comprehensive training and guidance, equipping them with essential skills in 3D modelling, scene design, game programming, virtual reality, augmented reality, and blockchain technology prior to the competition. Recognising the value of learning from real-life experiences, the training program included a session where four industry experts were specially invited to share their expertise, real-life cases, and firsthand information with the students. By combining theoretical knowledge, practical application, and insights from industry professionals, students had the opportunity to broaden their horizons and enhance their ability to excel in the competition. Armed with these newfound abilities, the participants embarked on a fierce competition, where they showcased their skills and creativity through metaverse creation. The themes of elimination rounds were "Metaverse for Future Classroom" and "Metaverse for Future Mall." Out of the 70 competing three-person teams, only the top 10 teams advanced to the final round, where they needed to design a "Metaverse for Jurassic Park" to compete for the crown. In each round of the competition, teams faced the intense time constraint of 12 hours to finish their metaverse space creation and presentation deck, starting from the moment the theme was announced. Despite the time pressure, the teams persisted until the very end, delivering projects that surpassed the expected standards. The closing ceremony on 9 September marked the culmination of weeks of intense competition and learning. Distinguished guests, including Dr Miranda LOU, Executive Vice President of PolyU; Prof. Hon William WONG Kam-fai, MH, Legislative Council Member; and Prof. LI Qing, Chair Professor of Data Science and Head of COMP, graced the ceremony with their presence. They delivered inspiring speeches and presented well-deserved awards to the winners of the "Metaverse Creators of Tomorrow" Competition and Training Programme. Judges, representatives from supporting organisations, as well as other students who had completed the programme, all came together to witness this significant moment and share in the celebration.   The winners of the programme are as follows: Champion: Diocesan Girls' School (So Hei Ching, So Hei Tung and Yuen Faith) First runner-up: La Salle College (Ho Yiu Hei, Wilson,  Lee Long Sze, Lonz and Ng Kit Yan, Ian) Leung Shek Chee College (Huang Yunshi, Liu Suet Ying and Poon Hei Tung) Merit Award: Po Leung Kuk Lee Shing Pik College (Li Tin Yan, Li Wing Man and Seto Yu Kiu) Shung Tak Catholic English College (Chan Pui Hang, Jiang Kit Hoi and Shum Ho Yeung)   The programme received an overwhelming response since its launch, with over 120 teams registered, 70 teams were finally admitted to the programme. The success of the "Metaverse Creators of Tomorrow" Competition and Training Programme highlights the commitment of PolyU to fostering creativity, technological expertise, and forward-thinking approaches among the younger generation. The participants have not only gained valuable knowledge and skills but also paved the way for a future where the metaverse plays a significant role in various aspects of life.   For more information about the programme, please visit the official website at https://metaverse.comp.polyu.edu.hk/home For more photos, please visit: https://metaverse.comp.polyu.edu.hk/whats-new

Faculty Awards for Outstanding Achievement 2023

Congratulations to the following staff members on receiving the Faculty Awards for Outstanding Achievement 2023. This truly reflects the great efforts and contributions made by them.   Category of Award Award Awardee Research and Scholarly Activities: Outstanding Researcher Merit Award (Individual) Prof. WANG Dan, Professor Research and Scholarly Activities: Outstanding Young Researcher Merit Award (Individual) Dr YANG Lei, Ray, Associate Professor Faculty Award in Teaching Merit Award (Team) Dr LI Jing, Amelia (Team Leader), Assistant Professor Dr LUI Wing Cheung, Richard, Senior Teaching Fellow   The winners of the Faculty Awards for Outstanding Achievement are chosen by a Faculty Assessment Panel, comprising the Heads (or their delegates) and chaired by the Dean of Faculty of Engineering (FENG), from amongst a pool of well-qualified nominees put forward by individual departments under FENG. The selection is made with reference to the indicative criteria for assessment as laid down by the University for the exercise.

PolyU and Accel Group establish Metaverse+ Joint Laboratory to promote the development and innovation of smart cities related fields

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Accel Group Holdings Limited (Accel Group) have established the “PolyU-Accel Group Metaverse+ Joint Laboratory” (Joint Lab). The Joint Lab aims to foster the research and application of metaverse technology in various sectors, accelerate the ongoing development of Hong Kong as a green and smart city, strengthen industry-academia-research collaboration and cultivate professional talents. The Accel Group plans to donate HK$10 million to PolyU in the next five years to support the project development and operation of the Joint Lab.   The kick-off ceremony was held on 8 Aug on the PolyU campus, officiated by Ms Lillian CHEONG, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry; Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU; Mr KO Lai-hung, Chairman and CEO of Accel Group; Ms Iris Ping-fan WONG, Hong Kong delegate to the National People’s Congress; Mr CHAN Han-pan, LegCo Member; Dr Miranda LOU, Executive Vice President of PolyU; Prof. LI Qing, Chair Professor of Data Science and Head of the Department of Computing; together with other guests.   Prof. Jin-Guang Teng said, “To better equip students for societal needs, PolyU has taken the lead in launching new Master’s degree programmes in areas including blockchain technology, metaverse technology, and artificial intelligence and big data computing. ‘Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics’ (AIDA) and ‘Innovation and Entrepreneurship’ (IE) have also been incorporated into the undergraduate curriculum. PolyU is committed to becoming an innovative world-class university and its contributions to blockchain technology and Web3 development have been widely recognised. The University topped the ‘Best Universities for Blockchain 2022’ list by CoinDesk, and our scholars recently won the international ZPRIZE award to recognise the breakthroughs achieved by the team in zero-knowledge crypto technology in Web3.”   Dr KO Lai-hung said, “The establishment of the Joint Lab with PolyU will benefit the diversification of our business development and as such is a milestone in the Group’s process of technological innovation. We will cooperate with academia by integrating our extensive industry experience and leveraging our financial resources into research in order to propel the construction of a more competitive and sustainable Hong Kong with the utilisation of metaverse technology. Our Group will also seize the enormous business opportunities brought by the metaverse and actively apply innovative outcomes in our business so as to increase our competitive advantage and support our long-term development.”   Dr ZHANG Chen Jason, Assistant Professor of COMP and the principal investigator of the Joint Lab, introduced the three initial directions that the Joint Lab are taking – new energy materials, industrial training, and financial technology. He explained that the plus sign (i.e. +) in the Joint Lab’s name is symbolic of the integration of metaverse technology into various kinds of industrial application.   The Joint Lab will conduct diversified research, including into the metaverse’s role in enterprise cooperation, industrial applications, green and smart city initiatives, energy management, and sustainable supply chain systems. It is expected that the establishment of the Joint Lab will improve production efficiency and quality while at the same time reducing risk and cost, accelerating the ongoing development of Hong Kong as a green and smart city, and cultivating professional talents. Weaving together the knowledge and research capability of academia with the experience and resources of industry, this collaboration between PolyU and Accel Group will further strengthen cross-disciplinary cooperation and explore the potential and value of metaverse technology in industrial applications and environmental protection.