Two promising young PolyU scholars have been recognised at the 2022 Young Scientist Awards organised by the Hong Kong Institution of Science.

Dr Xu Wanghuai, a postdoc fellow of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, won the Award in the Engineering Science field, while Ms Qing Yamin, a PhD student in her third year of study at the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, received an honourable mention in the category of Physical/Mathematical Science.

The Young Scientist Awards were established to reward young scientists excelling in the fields of Physical/Mathematical Science, Life Science and Engineering Science. Award selection is based on evidence of research excellence and the potential to become a good scientist or engineer. The Awards are open to all postgraduate research students as well as recent graduates. 

Working with Prof. Wang Zuankai, Associate Vice President (Research and Innovation) and Chair Professor of Nature-Inspired Engineering in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dr Xu researches the development of new architecture and mechanisms for high-efficiency water energy harvesting and liquid manipulation.

Ms Qing is engaged in research into the acceleration of flash droughts. She thanked her supervisor, Dr Wang Shuo, Assistant Professor of the Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics for his support and guidance. “The prize has encouraged me to continue to explore the dynamics and mechanisms of extreme weather and climate events under global warming,” she said.

Meanwhile, Dr Xu shared his belief that curiosity, critical thinking and perseverance are the three most important qualities for his peer researchers. “The Award’s recognition will motivate me to keep striving to make new discoveries in my research area,” said Dr Xu.