HKMU powers ahead with new Shenzhen Research Institute

Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) is expanding its research capabilities in the Greater Bay Area by opening the Shenzhen Research Institute. This institute serves as the university's strategic base in mainland China and aims to translate research into practical applications. Prof. Ricky Kwok, Vice President of Research and Institutional Advancement at HKMU, emphasized the institute's role in aligning with Hong Kong's goal of becoming an international innovation and technology hub, in line with the National 15th Five-Year Plan.

Securing the space for the Shenzhen Research Institute was challenging, but the university was determined to make it a thriving research platform. Since 2023, HKMU has filed applications for research outcomes and secured over 70 patents. Last year, the university achieved its first intellectual property licensing agreement, partnering with a UK healthcare firm to develop an early detection technology for prostate cancer.

Established with a RMB 32 million investment, HKMU is the first self-financing tertiary institution in Hong Kong to gain admission to the Shenzhen Virtual University Park. The institute's first phase, launched in June and officially opened in March, provides 670 square meters of laboratory space. Plans are underway for additional 800 square meters in the subsequent phases.

Initially focusing on four areas—biomedical life science, net zero and environmental technologies, quantum technology, and digital fabrication and art-tech—the institute currently hosts about 20 principal investigators, researchers, and 30 staff members. These teams are engaged in 12 projects, building upon HKMU's existing strengths and fostering collaboration with mainland partners.

HKMU's success in obtaining a public institution registration on the mainland allows the institute to engage with various stakeholders across China, facilitating research project support and talent recruitment. The institute is actively pursuing Mainland research grants and funding, currently benefiting from a RMB 2 million grant from Shenzhen's Science, Technology and Innovation Bureau.