The winner of the HKUST School of Engineering Distinguished Research Excellence Award 2012 Prof Tongyi Zhang gave a fascinating keynote on December 11, 2012, to an audience of over 200, including HKUST President Prof Tony F Chan, other senior members of the University management, students and members of the public.

Prof Zhang, Chair Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, spoke on "Fracture and Failure of Smart and Intelligent Materials of Piezoelectric Ceramics". His research on such "smart" materials has made a huge impact on the academic world, with numerous national and international honors, 170 published papers, and two co-held US patents. Piezoelectric ceramics also have a wide range of applications in hi-tech industries.

The Distinguished Research Excellence Award is the highest level of recognition bestowed by the School, and has been established to acknowledge the impact and contribution of the School's leading-edge faculty. The keynote forms part of the award and is an honor in itself.

In his introductory speech, Dean of the School of Engineering Prof Khaled Ben Letaief noted the faculty support and outstanding nominations received for the Research Excellence Award scheme since its launch in 2011. President Chan also spoke about the importance of world-class research for HKUST's international recognition and long-term success in his opening remarks and applauded the School of Engineering for starting the scheme.

A tea reception following the keynote brought together 160 people, including those who attended the keynote as well as friends of the School of Engineering. The gathering was held at the School's new front office on the Academic Concourse.