MTR CORPORATION(HK:00066) 2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2025-11-25 00:08Core Insights - The article highlights the journey of Professor Tan Huayao, a prominent figure in the field of fiber optic technology, emphasizing his contributions to both academia and industry over the past 30 years [2][3]. Group 1: Academic and Professional Background - Tan Huayao's academic journey began with a shift from physics to electronic engineering due to better job prospects in the 1980s [4]. - He completed his PhD in fiber optic communication and subsequently worked at GEC-Marconi in London, focusing on fiber optic amplifiers [11]. - In 1993, he returned to Hong Kong to teach at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, seeking a balance between career and family [4]. Group 2: Innovations in Fiber Optic Technology - Under Tan's leadership, Hong Kong established the world's first city-level fiber optic sensing network in 2014, covering over 90% of the city's railway lines [3][6]. - The technology has been successfully implemented in other countries, including Singapore, the Netherlands, and Australia [3]. - Recently, Tan's team has developed a plastic fiber optic sensor for medical applications, specifically for cochlear implant surgeries, which is currently in clinical trials [3][7]. Group 3: Educational Initiatives and Industry Collaboration - Tan founded the "Engineering and Entrepreneurship Club" in 2017 to provide students with practical experience and foster interdisciplinary collaboration [9][17]. - The club has attracted around 200 students from various disciplines, allowing them to engage in real-world projects and competitions [9][18]. - Tan emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry, advocating for a focus on practical applications of research [10].