Four research projects of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have received support from the Research Grants Council’s (RGC) funding exercises in 2026/27, amassing total funding of over HK$124 million. PolyU ranks high among local universities in terms of the number of funded projects: two interdisciplinary artificial intelligence (AI) projects supported by the Theme-based Research Scheme (TRS) will drive the development of green fuels and corporate AI risk management, while the other two, supported by the Areas of Excellence (AoE) Scheme and the Strategic Topics Grant (STG) respectively, cover the fields of smart manufacturing and the silver economy. PolyU will continue to harness its research prowess, advancing high-quality socio-economic development for the benefit of society.
Prof. Christopher CHAO, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, said, “We are grateful for the RGC’s robust support for PolyU’s research excellence. The awarded projects reflect our strength in interdisciplinary research, integrating AI with different academic disciplines to spearhead innovative development of green energy, smart manufacturing, the economy and corporate governance; and contributing to the development of the silver economy in Hong Kong. As a global top 50 university, PolyU will continue to capitalise on its competitive edge in world-class research and top talent, sparing no effort in fostering knowledge transfer and translating frontier research into impactful solutions to drive innovation across diverse industries, supporting Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology centre.”
The AoE Scheme aims to provide support to universities funded by the University Grants Committee to build upon their existing strengths and develop them into areas of excellence. The purpose of the TRS is to focus academic research on themes of strategic importance to Hong Kong’s long-term development, while the STG supports collaborative research in specific areas which can help address important issues for Hong Kong. The University’s projects that were awarded funding are as follows:
1. AoE Scheme
Project Coordinator | Prof. George Q. HUANG Chair Professor of Smart Manufacturing of the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and Director of the PolyU Research Institute for Advanced Manufacturing |
Project Title | Centre of Smart Manufacturing |
Abstract | This project aims to establish the Centre of Smart Manufacturing to pioneer next‑generation Industry 4.0 technologies. It introduces two foundational breakthroughs: Cyber‑Physical Computers (CPCs) and the Cyber‑Physical Internet, orchestrated by a Cyber‑Physical Operating System. CPCs computerise smart micro‑factories under a typical computer architecture, enabling operations to be processed like CPU instructions with cyber‑physical visibility and spatial‑temporal traceability. Crucially, CPCs incorporate Out‑of‑Order Execution algorithms to optimise workflows and minimise uncertainties through an in‑memory “look around” mechanism. Driven by a federated architecture of multidisciplinary Generative AI models and a unique group‑chat prompt-engineering framework, the system enables real‑time collaborative decision‑making between AI and human experts. Pilot studies deploying “Factory on Chips” scenarios will demonstrate enhanced efficiency and resilience across interconnected supply networks, creating strategic impact on Hong Kong’s logistics, trading and producer services, and reinforcing the City’s role as a hub for smart manufacturing‑enabled economic growth. |
Funding | Approximately HK$47.88 million |
2. TRS
Project Coordinator | Prof. WANG Lianzhou Chair Professor of Energy Materials of the Department of Chemistry and Hong Kong Global STEM Scholar |
Project Title | Intelligent Artificial Photosynthesis |
Abstract | This project aims to establish an Intelligent Artificial Photosynthesis platform to advance solar-driven greenhouse gas carbon dioxide conversion into storable green fuels. To resolve catalyst efficiency bottlenecks, the project will develop a closed-loop “Design—Make—Test—Learn” material discovery engine that combines AI-guided predictions with an automated catalyst synthesis and screening system. The project will also move beyond laboratory discoveries, developing modular solar fuel panels that can operate under natural sunlight. Ultimately, the project aims to combine AI, cutting-edge chemistry and smart engineering to deliver storable green fuels like methanol. The platform will be committed to accelerating the transition to carbon neutrality, securing future energy supply chains and turning scientific breakthroughs into viable commercial technologies. |
Funding | Approximately HK$48.83 million |
Project Coordinator | Prof. Feng TIAN Associate Professor of the School of Accounting and Finance |
Project Title | Managing AI Risk for Businesses in Hong Kong |
Abstract | This project aims to develop a comprehensive AI risk management framework tailored to Hong Kong’s business environment and grounded in evidence‑based analysis and forward‑looking forecasts. It investigates corporate AI adoption patterns across firms and occupations, highlighting the implications for talent development and workforce planning. The study examines the unauthorised use of generative AI in corporate disclosures and analysts’ reports, assessing its impact on information quality and capital market outcomes. It further analyses compliance, operational and misinformation risks. Annual qualitative studies in collaboration with industry partners will be conducted to forecast future AI application risk. Anticipated deliverables include an open‑access AI risk management service, algorithms to detect AI‑generated misinformation and policy reports. These outcomes will strengthen corporate governance and informed policymaking, ultimately supporting Hong Kong’s long-term drive towards responsible AI adoption and high-quality development. |
Funding | Approximately HK$10.84 million |
3. STG
Project Coordinator | Prof. Xue BAI Professor of the Department of Applied Social Sciences and Director of the PolyU Research Centre for Gerontology and Family Studies |
Project Title | Empowering an Inclusive, Age-Friendly Silver Economy in Hong Kong: From Longitudinal Evidence to Intergenerational Multi-stakeholder Action |
Abstract | As Hong Kong rapidly transitions into a super-aged society, adults aged 65 and above are projected to comprise over one-third of the population by 2043. Despite a large and growing global “silver” market, research indicates that fewer than a quarter of silver consumers are satisfied with current market offerings, while financial insecurity remains widespread. To resolve these issues, the project establishes a pioneering “Silver Evidence-to-Action Empowerment” framework. It adopts a dual-engine strategy: enhancing silver consumers’ financial capability, preparedness and well-being on the demand side, while building age-friendly market capacity to meet more informed needs on the supply side. This interdisciplinary initiative leverages a representative longitudinal survey of over 5,000 silver consumers to identify genuine needs and key market drivers. Through co-creation workshops with intergenerational ambassadors and multi-stakeholders, the team will translate findings into evidence-based, “Motivational Interviewing-guided” interventions. These interventions will be delivered through flexible in-person and digital platforms, with their effectiveness rigorously evaluated via cluster randomised controlled trials. Ultimately, the project aims to position Hong Kong as a global silver economy leader—driving policy, education and industry towards inclusive growth and an age-friendly society. |
Funding | HK$16.63 million |
