Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Intel jointly establish a laboratory focusing on high-energy-efficiency intelligent computing

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and Intel announced the establishment of the “HKUST-Intel Joint Laboratory” (hereinafter referred to as the “Joint Laboratory”). The laboratory will undertake a three-year research program focused on exploring high-efficiency near-memory computing architectures to address the performance and energy efficiency challenges of artificial intelligence applications. Through innovative soft-hardware co-design, both parties aim to provide technical references for the future development of intelligent devices and sustainable artificial intelligence systems.

Witnessed by HKUST Vice President (Research and Development) Professor Guo Yike, Intel China President Mr. Wang Zhicong, and Intel University Collaboration Senior Director Ms. Gabriela Cruz Thompson, the agreement was signed by HKUST Vice President (Research and Development) Professor Zheng Guangting and Mr. Song Jiqiang, Director of Intel China Research Institute, marking the official establishment of the Joint Laboratory.

Professor Zheng Guangting stated: “The establishment of the Joint Laboratory is an important practical response to HKUST’s ‘Strategic Development Plan 2031,’ which lists ‘Artificial Intelligence, Future Computing, and Electronics’ as core research directions, reflecting HKUST’s ongoing efforts to translate research成果 into applications. Microelectronics, as one of HKUST’s重点科研领域, will leverage our research strengths in soft-hardware co-design and high-efficiency near-memory computing to jointly explore new pathways for energy-efficient intelligent computing.”

Mr. Wang Zhicong said: “Intel has long been committed to building an open ecosystem, continuously promoting collaboration with academia, and accelerating the industrialization and application of laboratory成果. HKUST has a strong foundation in computer science and engineering and has significant influence in exploring future technologies. We look forward to working closely with HKUST scholars to explore more efficient and sustainable computing paradigms, practicing green technological innovation and sustainable development.”

The Joint Laboratory will be led by Professor Xie Yuan, Chair Professor of Electronic and Computer Engineering at HKUST and Chair Professor of Fong’s Engineering, focusing on research into technical challenges related to computing, memory, I/O bandwidth, and energy efficiency in smart devices.

About HKUST

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is an internationally renowned university dedicated to advancing innovative teaching,卓越研究, and impactful knowledge transfer. HKUST emphasizes providing comprehensive and interdisciplinary education for students. In the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, it ranked sixth; in the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024, it ranked third; and in the THE University Impact Rankings 2025, it ranked 19th globally and first in Hong Kong. Additionally, 13 disciplines are among the top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, with “Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” ranking 17th globally, maintaining its position as the top local university. Furthermore, HKUST consistently ranks within the top 30 globally in university employability rankings, reflecting its graduates’ strong competitiveness. In research and innovation entrepreneurship, over 80% of HKUST’s research was rated as “International Excellence” or “World-Leading” in the latest “2020 Research Assessment Exercise” by the University Grants Committee of Hong Kong. As of July 2025, HKUST members have founded over 1,900 active startups, including 10 unicorns and 17 successful exits (via IPO or acquisition).

About Intel

Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) focuses on the design and manufacturing of advanced semiconductors, connecting and powering the modern world. Every day, our engineers are continuously creating new technologies, shaping the future of computing, and enabling more possibilities for our customers.

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