Jointly organised by the Joseph Needham Foundation for Science and Civilisation, the Education Bureau, the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Academy of Sciences, this lecture series aims to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics education, and to let students learn about the latest development of various topics related to STEAM.

This lecture series is targeted at schools. Limited seats are available for school registration on a first-come, first-served basis. Please download the registration form at the bottom of the page.

Developing new generation of construction materials using AI approach

8.10.2025 (Wed)
3:00pm-4:15pm

Ir Prof. Denvid LAU (Professor, Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering; Associate Director, Academy of Innovation, City University of Hong Kong)

In order to fundamentally improve the macroscopic performance of construction materials, there is a need to understand microscopic physical and chemical processes. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation becomes an effective and powerful investigation tool for understanding such processes. In particular, AI-assisted MD simulations can accelerate the decision-making process regarding the featured parameters and automatically correct wrong predictions, which can significantly improve the efficiency of the simulations, as well as the reliability of the model and predictive results, leading to the new generation of construction materials.

Language: Cantonese

The Recycling of Non-Medicinal Parts of Chinese Medicines

5.11.2025 (Wed)
3:00pm-4:15pm

Prof. Karl Wah-keung TSIM (Chair Professor, Division of Life Science; Director, Center for Chinese Medicine, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

The non-medicinal parts of Chinese herbs have usually been discarded. However, recent studies have revealed that these "waste parts" possess substantial added value. A university research team has been pioneering innovations in this field, achieving notable success particularly in the reuse of non-medicinal parts of Chinese herbs. Furthermore, the team has developed a novel health supplement aimed at preventing cognitive decline and associated brain disorders. These research outcomes not only promote the sustainable utilization of Chinese medicinal resources but also open up new product lines and business opportunities for the health food industry.

Language: Cantonese

Pioneering Urban Solar Integration for a Sustainable Hong Kong

19.11.2025 (Wed)
3:00pm-4:15pm

Prof. Angus Hin-lap YIP (Professor, Department of Materials Science & Engineering and School of Energy and Environment; Associate Director, Hong Kong Institute for Clean Energy, City University of Hong Kong)

Renewable energy is vital for Hong Kong's carbon neutrality goals by 2050, where innovative photovoltaic (PV) technologies play a crucial role due to limited urban space. This lecture will focus on advanced, locally developed PV solutions tailored for Hong Kong's unique urban and coastal environments, including Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), solar noise barriers, solar roads, and floating PV systems. It will also highlight the integration of PV technology with fishery and agriculture, optimizing land use and promoting sustainable practices. These integrative technologies enhance energy efficiency and push environmental sustainability in densely populated areas, addressing both opportunities and challenges in urban solar implementation.

Language: Cantonese

Physics, Music and Tonality

3.12.2025 (Wed)
3:00pm-4:15pm

Prof. Andrew Glen COHEN (Professor, Jockey Club Institute for Advanced Study; Chair Professor, Department of Physics, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

For many hundreds of years, the concept of tonality has provided a foundation for much of the world's music. This lecture will discuss how basic concepts in the physics and mathematics of sound help us understand the construction of the tonal system. We will touch on issues such as how harmonies arise, and how they can be used to convey meaning in musical compositions.

Language: English

The AI Era: Data, Algorithms, and Computing

11.3.2026 (Wed)
3:00pm-4:15pm

Prof. Xiaoming YUAN (Professor, Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, The University of Hong Kong)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming our daily lives and society at large. Concurrently, the AI industry and academic research are experiencing rapid growth. In this lecture, the mathematical perspective on AI, focusing on key aspects such as data, algorithms, and computing will be discussed. Speaker will share on experience of the data training on how mathematical principles can be used to optimize large language models (LLMs), and explore ways to enhance mathematics using LLMs will also be discussed. How Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) technologies are revolutionising the computation of traditional mathematical problems, exemplified through linear programming models will be demonstrated.

Language: Putonghua supplemented with English

Climate Change and Extreme Weather Event

25.3.2026 (Wed)  
3:00pm-4:15pm

Prof. Alexis Kai-hon LAU (Tang Junyuan Professor of Environmental Science; Head and Chair Professor, Division of Environment and Sustainability; Chair Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering; and the Director, Institute for the Environment, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology)

Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, storms, floods, and droughts. Rising temperatures disrupt natural systems and pose serious risks to communities. Drawing on global and regional research, this lecture highlights how science helps us understand these changes and improve early warning systems, enabling societies to adapt and reduce harm in a rapidly changing climate.

Language: Cantonese