Professor Carol Lin Awarded Inaugural Overseas Research Fellowship Scheme

Professor Carol Lin Sze-ki, Professor in the School of Energy and Environment (SEE), focuses on circular waste-based biorefinery for the sustainable production of chemicals, materials, and fuels, contributing to the enhancement of resource efficiency. During her sabbatical visit to the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry in Semester A 2026/27, Professor Lin aims to develop sustainable, fire-safe polyurethane (PU) foam derived from renewable resources. This advancement in the sustainable development of construction and building materials with enhanced fire performance aligns with global sustainability goals and supports Hong Kong’s initiatives for green construction and enhanced building safety.

She is among seven scholars from City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) selected for the inaugural Overseas Research Fellowship Scheme (ORFS), which secured total funding of over HK$2.14 million and ranked CityUHK first among all Hong Kong universities in both the number of awardees and total funding received.

To promote the internationalisation of universities funded by the University Grants Committee (UGC) and to encourage university faculty to visit overseas institutions or units for immersive collaboration experiences, the RGC launched the Overseas Research Fellowship Scheme on a pilot basis. From the 2026/27 to 2028/29 academic years, 40 fellowships will be awarded annually to mid-career researchers, supporting their work on research projects or their participation in research-related professional development in overseas institutional laboratories, research units, or clinical settings.

The School of Energy and Environment extends its warmest congratulations to Professor Lin on this exceptional and well-deserved accomplishment.