As industries transform at an accelerating pace and global challenges grow increasingly complex, the research mission of higher education continues to evolve. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has launched its Presidential Visiting Professors Scheme (the Scheme), inviting internationally renowned scholars and distinguished experts to PolyU to pursue frontier research and high-level academic exchange. By bringing together leading research talent from around the world, the Scheme will foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation and explore new solutions to major challenges facing society and industry.
The Scheme will provide visiting professors with comprehensive support and access to PolyU’s research platforms, state-of-the-art facilities and global partnership network, enabling them to work closely with PolyU scholars on frontier and interdisciplinary research and to accelerate the translation and application of research outcomes. By connecting world-leading research talent with PolyU’s innovation ecosystem, the Scheme will further strengthen international academic collaboration and advance impactful research for the benefit of society.
Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, said, “As an innovative world-class university, PolyU is deeply committed to driving research excellence and fostering international academic synergy. The Presidential Visiting Professors Scheme embodies this vision by convening top-tier global minds to pioneer new frontiers of scientific discovery. Far more than a traditional visiting appointment, this flagship initiative provides a dynamic platform to cultivate enduring global partnerships, inspire the next generation of researchers, and deliver high-impact solutions to address challenges of global significance for the benefit of humanity.”
PolyU is actively advancing the fourth-generation university model, moving beyond the traditional discipline-based and curiosity-driven approach towards one that is demand-driven, problem-oriented, interdisciplinary, with integration of academia and industry. The University is developing an integrated ecosystem spanning fundamental research, applied research, technology translation and enterprise incubation, taking knowledge and innovation beyond the campus and to respond directly to the needs of society and industry. The Scheme will bring together leading research talent across disciplines and regions, catalysing interdisciplinary and cross-border collaboration and injecting fresh momentum into this development.
PolyU has strong research capabilities and a range of interdisciplinary research platforms. It is ranked 50th globally in the latest QS World University Rankings 2027, while 481 PolyU scholars are included in Stanford University’s latest list of the World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientists 2026, underscoring the international recognition of the University’s research excellence. PolyU has also established extensive collaboration networks across Chinese Mainland and the world, including translational research institutes in key Chinese Mainland cities that connect research, industry and innovation resources. With its advanced research infrastructure and collaborative networks, PolyU offers visiting professors a vibrant environment for them to pursue research and innovation and extend the impact of their work across the Greater Bay Area, the Nation and beyond.
The Scheme is open to eminent scholars with outstanding achievements in research, teaching and academic leadership. Presidential Visiting Professors will work with PolyU scholars on joint research projects, co-author publications and pursue research funding, while sharing knowledge and nurturing the next generation of researchers through lectures, seminars and workshops. The Scheme also encourages long-term strategic partnerships between PolyU and the visiting professors’ home institutions, creating further opportunities for joint research and academic collaboration.
Visits may last from three to 12 months and can be undertaken in a single period or in multiple stages. PolyU will provide a competitive support package, including an honorarium, accommodation allowance and transportation support, enabling visiting professors to focus on research and academic exchange.
Nomination & Application Details
Nomination Deadline: 31 December 2026
Further Information: https://polyu.hk/WXNOc
Contact: [email protected]
