Welcome to the Physical Science and Engineering Division of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Professor Yun Hau Ng is a highly respected figure in the scientific community dedicated to sustainable energy, known for his unique blend of scientific rigor and innovative thinking. His journey from the laboratories of Osaka University to a prominent role in global energy research reflects is deep commitment to carrying out frontier research rooted in sustainability principles. His recent arrival at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) marks the beginning of an essential new chapter in Chemical Engineering.

Professor Ng's academic journey began with a Ph.D. from Osaka University in 2009, where his early fascination with photoactive semiconductors took root. His talents quickly caught the attention of the global scientific community. A research visit to the University of Notre Dame's Radiation Laboratory provided the perfect launchpad for what would become a distinguished career. By 2011, he was part of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence for Functional Nanomaterials, supported by an Australian Early Career Research Fellowship.

Professor Ng's forward-looking research focuses on developing novel materials capable of harnessing sunlight to produce energy—a field with vast implications for a world grappling with climate change and resource scarcity. By 2014, he joined the School of Chemical Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), where he refined his work on photoactive semiconductors. During that period, he secured more than US$8.5 million in research funding, highlighting the significance and potential impact of his work. He joins the PSE Divisions from the School of Energy and Environment of the City University of Hong Kong, where he was professor and director of the Low-Carbon and Climate Impact Research Centre (LCCIC).

Recognition of his contributions reflects the international impact of his research. From the Honda-Fujishima Prize, awarded by the Electrochemical Society of Japan, to the APEC Science Prize for Innovation, Research, and Education (ASPIRE Prize), Professor Ng's accolades reflect his ability to push the boundaries of sustainable energy research.

At KAUST, Professor Ng is set to lead the Catalysis for Alternative & Renewable Energy (CARE) Research Group, where he will tackle the complex challenge of hydrogen production through water splitting. Professor Ng does not focus solely on traditional water sources but instead turns his attention to unconventional ones—municipal wastewater, industrial runoff, and even atmospheric moisture. His approach challenges conventional ideas about waste and resources, uncovering new avenues for discovery as the resource/waste preconception dissolves.

Professor Ng comes to KAUST not only as a scientist but also as a mentor and guide, believing in the power of curiosity and empathy. His philosophy is simple yet profound: encourage students to find their passion. "When students pursue research, ideally, they should pursue their passion, not the supervisor's. When students and the supervisor have aligned passions toward similar goals, great things may follow," says Ng. "At the beginning of their journey, I encourage students to give in-depth thought to their passion. However, passion is not enough—mental endurance is needed to withstand the sense of defeat that cyclically affects scientists. Success sprouts from passion when watered with perseverance. I will do my best to help my students grow these seeds. As for me," continues Ng, "humility and empathy—while remaining curious—are the compass that guides my choices. Not a successful formula, rather the principled polar star that drives my life, well beyond career-related aspects."

As he settles into the KAUST community, Professor Ng is also looking forward to a more personal project—he and his two sons plan to create a mini-band in their living room, hoping his wife might join them as the singer. A fun and creative way to bond as they adjust to their new surroundings. "Of course, we will ensure not to cause noise trouble for our neighbors!" Ng adds cheerfully.

With its commitment to fostering cutting-edge research, the PSE Division has found in Professor Ng someone who views science as both a rigorous discipline and a creative art.

Join us in wishing him and his family happiness and success during their time at KAUST.

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