SEE Welcomes DVP Prof. Ning Yan for a Dynamic Week of Innovation and Exchange

From 13 to 17 October 2025, the School of Energy and Environment (SEE) at CityUHK was honored to host our Distinguished Visiting Professor (DVP) Prof. Ning Yan for an inspiring week of academic exchange. A global leader in sustainable materials and holder of the Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Bioproducts at the University of Toronto, Prof. Yan’s visit focused on sustainable bioproducts as part of broader efforts to advance a low-carbon future, sparking vibrant academic dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Prof. Ning Yan (right) received a souvenir from Prof. Benjamin Horton (left), following her Distinguished Visiting Professor Lecture.

Introduced by Prof. Charles Xu, Chair Professor at SEE, who also delivered the opening remarks, Prof. Yan presented her Distinguished Visiting Professor Lecture on 14 October, titled “Bio-based Chemicals and Materials for a Sustainable Future”. She shared pioneering research from her Yan Lab, highlighting the conversion of biomass-derived molecules into sustainable polymer materials that can replace fossil fuel-based products. The lecture attracted a full house  of faculty members, researchers, and students, reflecting strong interest across the SEE community. The session concluded with a lively Q&A and a souvenir presentation by Prof. Benjamin Horton, Dean of SEE.

On 15 October, Prof. Yan led the Joint Workshop: SEE–MSE–CHEM, co-organized by SEE, the Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE), and the Department of Chemistry (CHEM). The workshop brought together experts to discuss advances in bio-based materials, catalytic conversion, and sustainable development. Prof. Yan opened the morning session with a presentation on “Sustainable Bio-based Products for Environmental Applications,” followed by talks from Prof. Charles Xu, Prof. Carol Lin, Prof. Chun Kit Kwok, Prof. Peggy Lo, and Prof. Derek Ho. The afternoon session featured presentations by Prof. Jason Lam, Prof. Maria Babak, Prof. Di Jin, and Prof. Li Yangyang, covering topics ranging from renewable catalysts to green materials engineering. The workshop fostered active dialogue and interdisciplinary exchange, sparking new collaborative research synergies. A networking lunch exclusively for the speakers provided further opportunities for in-depth discussion and connection.

Speakers shared insights and engaged in active discussions at the Joint Workshop.

Prof. Yan visited several research laboratories on 16 and 17 October, engaging with ongoing projects and exploring collaborative opportunities. She toured the SEE labs of Prof. Carol Lin, Prof. Jason Lam, and Prof. Charles Xu, delving into technological advancements in circular waste-based biorefineries, aqueous-based electrochemical processes for converting waste into valuable chemicals and fuels, and innovations in biomass conversion and green materials engineering. Her visit to the State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Health (SKLMEH), led by Director Prof. Kenneth Leung, BBS, JP, provided valuable insights into the real-world applications of bio-based materials in ocean environments, emphasizing their potential to enhance marine environmental protection.

Prof. Yan’s visit underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative material design in advancing sustainability. SEE extends its sincere appreciation to Prof. Ning Yan for her inspiring contributions and looks forward to future partnerships that drive impactful research and innovation.