Professor Zonglong Zhu, Chair Professor from the Department of Chemistry under the College of Science (CSCI), has been awarded the prestigious grant under the Research Fellow Scheme (RFS) 2025/26 by the Research Grants Council (RGC). The grant, a recognition of Professor Zhu’s outstanding research achievements, also demonstrated the potential impact of his proposed research project.

The research project titled “Advanced Perovskite Technologies for Flexible Electronics: Mechanisms, Interfaces, and Application Optimization”, led by Professor Zhu, will receive a RFS fellowship grant of approximately $5.3 million for a period of five years.

Professor Zhu’s project is designed to tackle the primary challenges inhibiting the broader adoption of perovskites in flexible electronic applications. The project aims to enhance the fundamental understanding and practical performance of perovskites under the dynamic conditions typical of flexible electronics. By focusing on the mechanical stability, durability, and integration of these materials, the project seeks to develop innovative strategies that improve the resilience and efficiency of devices such as foldable displays, wearable technologies, and health monitoring systems.

This research will significantly advance the field of flexible electronics, facilitating the development of more reliable and efficient devices that are crucial for the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart healthcare applications. By addressing mechanical stability and integration challenges, the project will enable the development of perovskite-based devices that are both high-performing and durable, meeting the needs of modern technology users and promoting sustainable technology practices.

The RGC has approved nine awards for the Senior Research Fellow Scheme (SRFS) and eleven awards for the RFS in this round, and CityUHK has secured two of each.