News & Stories

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, its potential to ignite human creativity is quietly revolutionizing storytelling—even in filmmaking. Leading this charge is Professor RAO Anyi, an assistant professor in the newly established Division of Arts and Machine Creativity at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).  Prof. Rao, named to the 2025 Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list, is pioneering AI’s role in democratizing storytelling. He develops AI tools that empower filmmakers to generate content and control complex elements or special effects like scene lighting. With a mission to merge the realms of filmmaking, art, and AI, he aims to nurture a tech-savvy generation of storytellers. 

The buzz surrounding drones and eVTOL vehicles signals an exciting future—faster deliveries, rapid medical aid, and efficient public services just over our heads. But as these technologies take flight, they face two critical challenges: noise pollution and public safety. Drone and eVTOL operation in low altitude airspace produce noise and face flight safety challenges in micro-weather and building wind environment. Professor ZHANG Xin, Swire Professor of Aerospace Engineering, and Professor ZHOU Peng at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) are leading efforts to overcome these issues. Combining cutting-edge research in aerospace engineering with practical solutions, their team is striving to ensure drones and eVOTL  vehicles can integrate harmoniously into urban life.

The robust support of the University community has been a vital catalyst for The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s (HKUST) research breakthroughs and educational excellence. In recognition of Dr. Allen SHI’s generous donation, the University recently held a naming ceremony for the Dr. Allen L. T. Shi Information Technology Laboratory. Located in the Lee Shau Kee Business Building on the Clearwater Bay campus, this state-of-the-art facility plays a fundamental role in supporting diverse education needs of HKUST students. The donation, channeled through Lop Tak Charity Foundation established by Dr. Shi, will fuel the University’s research innovation and expand student learning opportunities.

Prof. ZHANG Jiheng, born in Nanjing in the late 1970s, immersed himself in the captivating world of mathematics before transitioning to engineering at age 23 as a PhD candidate at Georgia Tech. After working for 12 years at HKUST, he embraced the challenge of leading the Department of Industrial Engineering and Decision Analytics (IEDA) as its Head, a role he had not foreseen but has grown to cherish. More recently, he has taken on the ambitious endeavor of contributing to Hong Kong’s vision as a smart hub through innovative Theme-Based Research.

In the vibrant halls of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), Dr. Meike SAUERWEIN, Lecturer of the Division of Environment and Sustainability, is igniting a quiet revolution. Her course, ENVR 1080: The Smart Consumer – Uncovering the Hidden Story Behind the Product Label, is far more than a typical sustainability course—it is an eye-opening experience that makes students rethink their everyday purchases and their ripple effects on the environment and society.

The inaugural Gala Dinner of the HKUST Foundation recently took place amid an outpouring of kindness and generosity—hosting over 200 distinguished guests of academia, business, and philanthropy. The gala dinner marked the official launch of the HKUST Foundation, which aims to foster a greater sense of belonging among the University community while broadening its fundraising network for strategic development. Amidst the glitz and glamor, what truly stole the limelight was the auction of two exclusive leather jackets autographed by NVIDIA’s Founder and CEO, Dr. Jensen HUANG. These two jackets raised a staggering total of over HK$20 million to support strategic development at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).

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.

Once a student from modest beginnings, Terry TSANG is now the CEO of Madhead, a leading mobile game developer. His smash-hit game, Tower of Saviors, has over 23 million downloads worldwide and features collaborations with top animation franchises. Despite his success, Terry remains deeply connected to his alma mater, HKUST. As an Alumnus, Council Member, and Donor, Terry’s devotion to HKUST is unwavering. What he treasures most in his office is a 20-year-old letter from HKUST—reminding him of when the University gave him emergency support during a family tragedy. “My father passed away suddenly during my final year of study,” Terry recalls, holding the letter. “It was devastating, but I’ll never forget how much HKUST supported us during that difficult time. This letter still sits on my desk today.”