News & Stories

Researchers at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have developed a groundbreaking AI technology that reconstructs precise 3D bones and organs models from minimal X-ray images, slashing patients’ radiation exposure by up to 99% compared to CT scans. This innovation not only enhances patient safety but also reduces costs and wait times, with potential applications in surgical planning, real-time imaging, and personalized implants. HKUST team is collaborating with different industry partners, including bone printing company Koln 3D Technology (Medical) Limited (Koln 3D), to implement this technology in public hospitals.

Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) School of Engineering have cracked a major challenge in display technology by inventing the world’s brightest and most energy efficient quantum rod LEDs (QRLEDs). These next-generation QRLEDs feature optimized deep green emission at the top of the color triangle, enabling displays with unprecedented color purity and a maximized color gamut. Boasting a longer lifespan and triple the brightness of previous models, these cutting-edge light sources deliver energy-efficient, ultra-vivid visuals for smartphones, televisions, and AR/VR devices while further enhancing color performance.

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is pleased to announce the launch of WavyOcean 2.0, an immersive digital twin platform of regional earth system. This upgraded platform deeply integrates digital technologies with innovative research in Earth system, creating the first "dynamic digital mirror" for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area (GBA) and China's coastal regions. With these enhancement, WavyOcean 2.0 offers the latest data on ocean currents, marine ecology, atmospheric conditions, and the distribution of rivers and pollutants in terrestrial watersheds, along with comprehensive data analysis tools and immersive visualization interactive functions. 

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has set a new institutional record by securing over HK$279 million for six research projects across all three flagship schemes of the Research Grants Council (RGC) under the University Grants Committee – the highest share in terms of projects funded among universities, cementing its leadership in competitive research funding. AoE and TRS Sweep:  HKUST captured 4 of 9 awarded projects (nearly 45%) in the prestigious Areas of Excellence (AoE) and Theme-based Research Scheme (TRS). These projects target critical global challenges including climate resilience, disease prevention, and sustainable technology.

Chemists at the School of Science of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have recently made a significant breakthrough in photocatalysis by unveiling a “super” photoreductant, marking a major advancement in organic synthesis. Quantum dots (QDs) hold great promise as photocatalysts for promoting photoredox chemistry, however, their application in photocatalytic organic transformations has lagged behind that of small molecule photosensitizers due to the limited understanding of their photophysics. While various studies have explored the generation of hot electrons from QDs as a strategy to enhance photoreduction efficiencies, achieving effective hot-electron generation under mild conditions has posed a significant challenge.

Global healthcare is facing a wide range of challenges, including ageing populations and an increase in chronic diseases, which are putting immense strain on healthcare systems. The demand for advanced medical technologies like less invasive and more precise surgical tools has never been more urgent. The situation prompted a global wave of innovation in micro-scale medical robotics designed to assist clinicians with unprecedented accuracy and effectiveness.  This ambition drives Professor SHEN Yajing and his research team at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)’s Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering on their journey toward medical innovation. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics technologies, they have recently developed three pioneering smart medical devices for health monitoring, surgical assistance, and rehabilitation, ushering in a new era of smart healthcare.

For many, sticking to familiar paths feels safe and comfortable. But not for the trailblazers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). They are not just thinking outside the box—they are pushing boundaries and aiming for the skies—quite literally. At HKUST’s Low Altitude Economy Research Center (LAERC), researchers are revolutionizing the future of urban airspace to support HKSAR Government’s policy in promoting the low-altitude economy. Their mission? Harnessing the groundbreaking Digital Twin technology—a virtual replica of the physical world—to transform drone management, airspace control, and infrastructure monitoring.  Spearheaded by Professor Jack CHENG of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, this innovative technology is set to unlock unprecedented potential for the low-altitude economy.

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has shone in the second round of Research, Academic and Industry Sectors One-plus (RAISe+) Scheme launched by Innovation and Technology Commission’s (ITC), securing grants for seven teams – the highest number among local institutions.  The seven funded projects encompass a diverse array of innovative research and development efforts. Three projects focus on health and medical innovation, addressing areas spanning diagnostics, medical treatment and gene therapy.  Three others focus on AI chips, semiconductors and their materials, while the remaining one explores novel displays and optoelectronic technology.