HKUST Annual Report 2024-2025

29 L A B T O M A R K E T The Hong Kong Space Robotics and Energy Center, led by Prof. GAO Yang of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, is our newest InnoHK center. Its flagship project is to develop a multifunctional dexterous robot for the 2028–29 Chang’E-8 space mission. This center expands our existing portfolio of InnoHK centers, which are pioneering research in neurodegenerative diseases, generative AI, smart chips, and construction robotics. EMPOWERING THE ENVIRONMENT TO EXCEL Since its founding, HKUST has recognized that world-class facilities and a dynamic academic culture are fundamental to pioneering discoveries. In 2024-25, the University reinforced this commitment by establishing 16 new research institutes, centers, and joint labs with external partners. These units accelerate our progress in high-impact fields such as the low-altitude economy, robotics, AI, climate change and healthcare. Among them are: Institutes - HKUST Von Neumann Institute - Institute for Health Innovation - Institute of Integrated Circuits and Systems Research Centers - Center for AI Robotics in Space Sustainability - Center for Philosophy of Science - Center for Technology and Business Ecosystem - Low Altitude Economy Research Center - Media Intelligence Research Center - Otto Poon Center for Climate Resilience and Sustainability - Research Center on Decarbonization Technology - Research Center of SMART FiberTech Joint Units - Collaborative Center for Medical and Engineering Innovation - HKUST-Alibaba Joint Laboratory on Big Data and AI - HKUST-BYD Embodied AI Joint Laboratory - HKUST-Inspur Cloud Joint Laboratory - HKUST-Wuxi Joint Laboratory for Robotic Embodied Dexterity and Intelligence Campus development—creating an inspiring physical environment that embodies our commitment to sustainability—is another key aspect of our future-ready plans. The Martin Ka Shing Lee Innovation Building, now nearing completion, will accommodate national research laboratories and major research initiatives. The building will host the HKUST InnoBay@Innovation Building, a novel DeepTech incubator set to launch in Q4 2025. It will be the first university building in Hong Kong to use low-carbon concrete and recycled steel reinforcement, significantly reducing its embodied carbon.