The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is so proud to collaborate with the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) to set up the PolyU–RMIT FutureLab (FutureLab). A launching ceremony was held on the PolyU campus on 12 September 2024. The ceremony was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Mr Gareth WILLIAMS, Australian Consul-General to Hong Kong and Macau, Ms LIU Bing, Deputy Consul-General, and Mr Patrick ORCHARD, Consul Trade and Investment Commissioner.
FutureLab is a new initiative to support and connect members from PolyU and RMIT University to undertake collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects in strategic areas, such as energy, smart cities, carbon neutrality, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, etc., that contribute to the advancements and applications of cutting-edge technologies while promoting urban and environmental sustainability at the same time. At the Lab, in addition to conducting joint projects, the two universities will also collaborate to provide exchange opportunities for academic and research staff, prepare applications for joint research grants, and organise activities such as international conferences.
The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome by Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU. “FutureLab is a platform on which PAIR and RMIT scholars leverage complementary research strengths, including expertise, resources and networks, to co-design and conduct projects and activities that not only benefit the research and development (R&D) of both universities, but also the sustainable development of two regions,” said Prof. Chao.
During the opening remarks, Mr Layton PIKE, Executive Director, International at RMIT University said, “RMIT and PolyU’s collaboration to create FutureLab reflects the joint vision of our institutions to work together for a sustainable future, through the advancement of technologies and research”. He also introduced three joint projects to be conducted by researchers from the two universities:
The Smart City Lens: Geospatial technologies and digital twins for action on urban sustainability
It aims to create a new approach and technology for capturing, analysing, and visualising dynamic information and actionable insights about the impacts of smart city precincts.
Advanced Grid Support Services from Smart Buildings and Building Microgrids
It involves experiments on load flexibility, building data analytics and developing machine learning models to identify load flexibility in smart buildings, and building microgrids to provide grid support services.
AI-based Drone Assistant for Automated Coastline Rescue and Cleanup
It aims to establish an integrated system for sustainable coastline safety and environmentally friendly waste management by aligning with human safety and global sustainability targets.
To conclude the ceremony, Prof. Charlie XUE, Distinguished Professor and Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor (International) of STEM College at RMIT University, shared that RMIT University has had multiple meetings and connections with PolyU since July 2023. The launch of FutureLab is a significant investment, and the two institutions look forward to seeing increased collaboration, joint outputs and impact, pathways for continuous collaboration, and opportunities to connect with industry and other end users for commercialisation.
| Research Units | PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research |
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