Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) achieved new milestones at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva, setting records with 36 teams securing a total of 36 awards. Among these accolades, the prestigious Prize of the Chinese Delegation for Invention and Innovation, four Gold Medals along with Congratulations of the Jury, and multiple Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals were claimed.
One groundbreaking research project led by HKUST President Prof. Nancy IP focusing on a novel strategy targeting soluble ST2 (sST2), a blood protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), received high recognition. This initiative not only won the Prize of the Chinese Delegation for Invention and Innovation but also bagged the Gold Medal with Congratulations of the Jury. The research findings hold promise for the development of AD therapeutics, offering potential avenues for reducing the risk of AD development and ameliorating disease pathologies through less invasive and safer treatment options compared to traditional approaches.
Other notable winners from HKUST included projects such as eco-friendly cementless bricks derived from municipal solid wastes, an advanced photovoltaic smart window for thermal insulation, and a rebar tying robot. These innovations span various fields like biomedical and health, information technology, smart construction, and sustainable energy, showcasing the university’s diverse research capabilities.
Furthermore, collaborations with governmental and industry partners have yielded significant impact on society. Projects with the Education Bureau, MTR Corporation, and the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre aimed at developing virtual programs, ridership modeling, and digital twin platforms, respectively. These collaborations underscore HKUST’s commitment to driving innovation for societal benefit.
HKUST is spearheading initiatives to bridge the gap between research and practical solutions, evident in the establishment of start-ups supported by the university. This approach emphasizes transforming research achievements into tangible solutions that address real-world challenges and improve human life.
The university’s success at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva underscores its prowess in research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and knowledge transfer. As HKUST continues to lead in global rankings for knowledge transfer, the institution remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem and translating innovative breakthroughs into impactful outcomes for the community.
The 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva, with participants from over 40 countries and showcasing a wide array of inventions, provides a platform for HKUST to shine on the global stage. With a record-breaking number of winning projects, the university’s continued commitment to excellence in research and innovation is evident.
In conclusion, HKUST’s exceptional performance at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva highlights the university’s dedication to pushing boundaries, fostering collaboration, and making a meaningful impact on society through innovative research and entrepreneurial endeavors.