Post Date: 13 February 2026

International Young Scientist Workshop on Atmospheric Environment 2026 Concluded with Great Success

The Division of Environment and Sustainability (ENVR) successfully hosted the International Young Scientist Workshop on Atmospheric Environment (IYSAE) 2026 from 26–30 January 2026, welcoming more than 70 young researchers from around the world to HKUST campus for an inspiring week of academic exchange and collaboration. The workshop was co-organized by the Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies, HKUST, and School of Environment and Architecture, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology (USST), and supported by Beijing-Hong Kong Exchange of Personnel Centre and the International Global Atmospheric Chemistry (IGAC) – China Working Group.

The opening ceremony was chaired by the main organizer, Prof. Zhe Wang from ENVR, and featured welcome remarks from distinguished guests: Prof. Jimmy FUNG, Associate Provost (Teaching & Learning) of HKUST; Mr. Heting DU, Deputy General Manager of Beijing-Hong Kong Exchange of Personnel Centre; Dr. Vincent CHEUNG, Senior Environmental Protection Officer of Environmental Protection Department; Prof. Zhi NING, Associate Dean of Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies; and Prof. Hongliang ZHANG, Dean and Professor, School of Environment and Architecture, USST. 

Prof. Jimmy FUNG, Associate Provost (Teaching & Learning) of HKUST

Prof. FUNG warmly welcomed all the participants,"This workshop embodies the spirit of collaboration and scientific excellence. As we welcome more than 70 young scientists, we are inspired by their energy, creativity, and diverse expertise. They are leading the way in innovative thinking and advancing methodologies. They shift the next generation of atmospheric and climate research. I encourage all participants to take full advantage of the next three days — work hard and play hard. Thank you for joining this workshop and I wish you all a productive and meaning workshop."

Mr. Heting DU, Deputy General Manager of Beijing-Hong Kong Exchange of Personnel Centre

Mr. DU emphasized the importance of international collaboration, "Atmospheric environment and the climate research have become some of the most crucial, common, scientific challenges of our time. Air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, extreme weather and the complex interactions between human activities and the environment all have profound impacts on our public health, sustainable development and the well-being of future generations. There is a need for us to advance our understanding of these areas, which is not only a scientific mission, but also a responsibility that we collectively share. Academic exchange plays an important role in promoting scientific research collaboration and cultivating global talent. This exchange platform allows us to deepen our knowledge and explore the best solutions that benefit all of us. 

We affirmatively believe that broad academic exchange can foster international collaboration, support the growth of young researchers, and provide a valuable platform for the exchange of ideas and mutual learning. It also enables us to explore new perspectives, engage in interdisciplinary dialogue, and contribute research toward improving the global environment. 

It is our honour to join HKUST in organizing this workshop. Let this workshop become a starting point for deeper collaboration."

Dr. Vincent CHEUNG, Senior Environmental Protection Officer of Environmental Protection Department

Dr. CHEUNG said, “Young scientists bring fresh perspectives, new policy insights, and innovative approaches that are vital for solving today's environmental problems. By sharing methods, comparing observations, and discussing modelling results, you help build the scientific foundation need for evidence-based policymaking. The connections you form here will shape future research and contribute to the environmental well-being of our region and beyond. I wish the workshop every success and look forward to the knowledge and the inspirations that you emerged over the coming days."

Prof. Zhi NING, Associate Dean of Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies

Prof. NING shared, “This is our second time for organising IYSAE. We hope this is not only an academic exchange hub for our friends' circle, our researchers, but also a peaceful harbour after a year of hard work. No matter where you are, we warmly welcome you to Hong Kong and to HKUST.”

Prof. Hongliang ZHANG, Dean and Professor, School of Environment and Architecture, USST

Prof. ZHANG added, "It is a good opportunity for us to come together again after a year. This year’s workshop includes not only young researchers, but also scholars of different age groups, which makes it a truly valuable platform for meaningful dialogue and exchange."

IYSAE 2026 was concluded in a great success, providing young scientists with a platform to explore breakthroughs, emerging trend s and novel technologies in atmospheric sciences, while strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and connections among participants at all career stages. ENVR looks forward to building on the momentum of IYSAE 2026 and continuing to nurture the next generation of environmental scientists.

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