The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with the Innovation and Technology Commission, has officially launched the third InnoHK research cluster, SEAM@InnoHK, at Hong Kong Science Park. This new cluster focuses on emerging domains such as sustainable development, energy, advanced manufacturing, and materials, and is jointly led by top local and international academic and research institutions. The launch ceremony, held on September 1, 2026, was officiated by key government officials and industry leaders, highlighting the strategic importance of this initiative.
The establishment of SEAM@InnoHK is a significant milestone in Hong Kong's efforts to solidify its position as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. By bringing together over 30 top global universities and research institutions, including the University of Cambridge, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Nagoya University, National University of Singapore, Tsinghua University, and Peking University, the cluster aims to drive breakthroughs in critical areas. Notably, three of the eight R&D centres feature collaborations with Nobel Laureates: Professor Ben L. Feringa (2016 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry) at the InnoHK Centre of Functional Materials for Energy and Sustainability (CFMES); Sir Konstantin Novoselov (2010 Nobel Laureate in Physics) at the Inno Centre for Heterogeneous Integration and Production (CHIP); and Professor Hiroshi Amano (2014 Nobel Laureate in Physics) at InnoHK Power Semiconductors and Applications Center (PowerSAC). This stellar lineup underscores Hong Kong's unique advantage in assembling world-class research talent and fostering cross-border collaboration.
The implications of this launch are profound. For Hong Kong, it represents a strategic move to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on traditional sectors. The focus on sustainable development and advanced manufacturing aligns with global trends and positions Hong Kong to play a key role in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity. The cluster is expected to accelerate technology transfer and startup incubation, creating new economic opportunities and high-value jobs. Moreover, the collaboration with international institutions enhances Hong Kong's global standing as a research hub, attracting further investment and talent.
Ms. Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP, emphasized the power of collaboration, noting that the first two clusters, Health@InnoHK and AIR@InnoHK, have already delivered world-class achievements. She committed to providing full support to the new teams, stating that their success will add to the heartbeat of the ecosystem, not only for HKSTP but for Hong Kong's entire innovation landscape.
As an ecosystem orchestrator, HKSTP offers comprehensive support to the R&D centres, including world-class infrastructure, connections with academic institutions, talent pools, and investor networks, as well as matchmaking with funding and industry partners. This end-to-end support is designed to transform breakthrough research into scalable, high-impact commercial solutions. The launch of SEAM@InnoHK is a clear signal that Hong Kong is serious about becoming a global leader in innovation, with a focus on sustainable and advanced technologies that will shape the future.
