HKUST and CEDD Sign MoU on Research Studies | The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and The Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today (February 28) to set out the framework of collaboration on research studies related to sustainable infrastructure development and land formation.
        
The MoU was signed by the Vice-President for Research and Development of HKUST, Prof. Tim CHENG, and the Director of Civil Engineering and Development, Mr. Michael FONG, and witnessed by the President of HKUST, Prof. Nancy IP, and the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr. Ricky LAU.

The MoU, effective from March 1 for a duration of two years, will cover research areas in novel construction materials, innovative landslide mitigation strategies, digitalization, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, as well as innovative engineering and sustainable solutions. 

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Fong said that the CEDD has been applying innovative technologies to facilitate the implementation of construction projects.  With the CEDD’s experience in construction projects and HKUST’s top-notch research team, the collaboration between the two parties promotes the research in sustainable infrastructure development and land formation, and would help the industry enhance productivity, quality and site safety.

Prof. Cheng said that HKUST’s multidisciplinary research expertise, covering AI to Internet of Things (IoT), digital twins, material science and civil engineering, will synergize with CEDD’s practical experience, work data and scenario applications to create innovative and practical solutions. 

The CEDD has been collaborating closely with academic institutions and the construction industry to develop various smart and innovative technologies for application in public works projects.  The CEDD has applied research deliverables in various projects to effectively address pain points, such as optimizing the design of debris-resisting barriers for landslide mitigation, and advocating the recycling of construction and demolition materials.

About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology 
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university committed to innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. Our holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach is recognized globally. HKUST placed 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024, 19th Worldwide and No.1 in Hong Kong in Times Higher Education’s impact Rankings. Twelve of HKUST’s subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024. Of these, "Data Science and Artificial Intelligence" ranked first in Hong Kong and 10th in the world. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently placing among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. Our research and entrepreneurship endeavors are also innovative and impactful. Over 80% of our work was rated “Internationally excellent” or “world leading” in the latest Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee. As of November 2024, HKUST members have founded 1,800 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 16 exits (IPO or M&A).