Inaugural Architectural Studies degree inspires future architects and ignites passion for built environment

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architectural Studies is set to launch in the 2025/26 academic year. This inaugural programme is hosted by the Department of Building and Real Estate (BRE) and co-hosted by the School of Design (SD), aiming to integrate the strengths of both units with the other three FCE departments. The focus will be on advanced technology, artificial intelligence, humanities, and sustainable design.

Prof. Tristance KEE, the Programme Leader and Associate Professor of BRE emphasised the programme's mission to cultivate the next generation of architects who can leverage advanced technologies and innovations to support the growth of the construction industry. “Students will engage with cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modelling (BIM), and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) relevant to architecture, construction, building materials, and building services, addressing sustainable development challenges in the built environment,” she shared.

The curriculum prioritises practical learning opportunities, including academic research, international exchanges, and internships. Prof. Kee highlighted that students will explore various fields within architecture, gaining insights into building design concepts while developing traditional skills such as Chinese architecture, architectural conversation, and green building practices. A mentorship scheme will connect students with industry leaders for professional guidance.

This programme uniquely integrates knowledge and analytical tools, digital skills and transferable skills with design capabilities tailored to the architecture profession's needs. Looking ahead, Prof. Kee reiterated the commitment to quality education, indicating that the programme will seek accreditation from The Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) and Architects Registration Board (ARB). Graduates will be well-positioned for employment as professional trainees in architecture firms, construction companies, government departments, and organisations involved in urban planning and architectural development. The programme has garnered interest from international applicants spanning a wide range of countries, showcasing its broad appeal. Click here for full details of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architectural Studies.

Stay tuned for the exciting developments in our undergraduate programmes for the 2025/26 academic year, featuring the new Bachelor’s Degree Scheme in Construction and Environment and the Faculty Common Year One curriculum, which offer expanded admission pathways and greater flexibility for students!

FCE members propel translational research in Mainland for industrial and societal benefits

The University has been in the process of setting up a network of Mainland Translational Research Institutes (MTRIs) and Mainland Translational Research Centre (MTRC) to translate PolyU’s research outputs into targeted solutions for meeting the industrial and societal needs of various cities in Mainland China.

In support of the University’s vision, a number of FCE academics have taken up leadership roles in several MTRIs in Zhejiang, Fujian, Anhui provinces and also the MTRC in Qianhai to contribute their expertise to the distinctive key areas of the research institutes and centre, including intelligent transportation, sensing technology, policy research for innovation and technology services, smart sensing manufacturing, modern construction, and marine engineering.

Their efforts will not only connect PolyU’s research capacity and outcomes to the industrial and socio-economic needs of Mainland cities for impactful knowledge transfer but also integrate PolyU into National development and support Hong Kong in becoming an international innovation and technology hub. The Faculty encourages all FCE members to contribute to this meaningful initiative in their own research areas.

Two more FCE academics join prestigious ranks of HKAE Fellows

The Faculty is thrilled to report that Prof. Jian-Hua YIN, Distinguished Research Professor, and Prof. Xiao Lin ZHAO, Chair Professor of Civil Infrastructure, both from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE), have been elected Fellows of the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering (HKAE).

Prof. Yin and Prof. Zhao were elected at the HKAE’s 31st annual general meeting on 9 December 2024 for their outstanding expertise and remarkable achievements in engineering sciences and applications. At the induction ceremony held on 20 January 2025, Prof. Yin and Prof. Zhao formally joined the distinguished ranks of HKAE Fellows.

The conferment of two additional academician titles on FCE scholars underscores the quality and impact of the Faculty's research and academic leadership in Hong Kong and also serves as an inspiration for other FCE members to strive for excellence in their research and academic pursuits.

Established in 1994, the HKAE (formerly the Hong Kong Academy of Engineering Sciences) is a prestigious organisation dedicated to the promotion and advancement of the field of engineering in Hong Kong.

BEEE PhD student-led startup wins Certificate of Merit at HKICT Startup Awards with innovative fire emergency system

As the Faculty and its departments actively foster knowledge transfer and encourage an entrepreneurial spirit, we are delighted to see FCE member-led startups being recognised for translating impactful research and technologies into practical solutions.

Mr Ho Yin WONG, PhD student of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) and co-founder of the startup GABES Limited, received a Certificate of Merit of the ICT Startup (Hardware and Devices) Award 2024.

The winning innovation “Generation Alpha Building Emergency System” uses Internet of Things (IoT) technology to determine the severity and origin of a fire emergency and adjusts building evacuation routes through a dynamic exit sign system. This can expedite the evacuation process and enhance the efficiency of property management.

FCE scholar receives Dayu Award for advancing hydraulic engineering technology

Prof. Huan-Feng DUAN, Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE), received the Dayu Water Conservancy Science and Technology Progress Award (Second Class) from the Ministry of Water Resources of China near the end of 2024.

The awarded cross-institutional project was titled “Key Technologies for Real-time Hydraulic Simulation and Precise Regulation of Complex Urban Water Supply Networks”. The innovation has been applied in various Mainland cities and brought significant economic, social, and environmental benefits.

The Dayu Award is widely acknowledged as the most prestigious accolade within the hydraulic engineering discipline in China, designed to honour exceptional contributions to the advancement of hydraulic engineering science and technology.

FCE young academic named 40 Under 40 for promoting environmental science and technology

The Faculty is delighted to share that Prof. Nathanael JIN, Assistant Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE), has been awarded by the 40 Under 40 Recognition Program of the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES) in recognition of his contribution to environmental science and engineering as a young scholar.

As the only awardee from Hong Kong among the 2025 recipients, Prof. Jin was elected for his interdisciplinary research at the intersection of environmental chemistry, toxicology, and microbiology which plays a key role in shaping environmental policies and conservation strategies.

A promising young scholar in the field, Prof. Jin is also active in editorial roles and initiatives that bridge the gap between established and emerging scholars, fostering global environmental dialogues. He was invited to write a commentary in Nature to discuss microbial risks lurking in global plastic waste. The paper titled "What harmful microbes are lurking in the world’s 7 billion tonnes of plastic waste?" highlights the microbial risks associated with plastic pollution and proposes a global strategy to understand and combat these risks.

Long Service Award 2024

The Faculty would like to congratulate 30 FCE staff who were honoured with the Long Service Award 2024 and thank them for their loyal services.

The PolyU Long Service Award is given to staff members upon completing each five-year service period. Among the 2024 FCE recipients, several have served the University for 30 years. Their deep understanding of the University and FCE’s operations, culture, and history is invaluable in guiding new initiatives and mentoring younger staff members. A tea gathering was held on 21 February 2025 at Hotel ICON to celebrate their loyalty and commitment to PolyU.

The PolyU Long Service Award scheme was first introduced in 1990 to recognise long-serving staff for their dedication and commitment to PolyU, and to foster a sense of belonging among staff.