Introducing our “Meet Our Faculty” series, where we showcase the research interests, visions, and insights of our dynamic AIS faculty through Q&As!

This week, we hear from Prof. Fei CHEN (Professor, Division of Environment and Sustainability). Let's delve into his #research journey and learn about his #advice for students. 

Could you tell us more about you?

I worked for more than 27 years at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado, U.S., a world-class organization for weather, climate, and earth system science research. My focus was on land-surface and hydrology processes, land-atmosphere interactions, and human-nature system coupling. My team developed community modeling systems for international research and application communities.

I am intrigued by the interdisciplinary strategic direction at HKUST, as it takes a holistic approach to addressing climate. There is a substantial gap between the climate modelling and projection research community and end users such as stakeholders and policy makers. I am excited to join the Division of Environment and Sustainability (ENVR) within the Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies (AIS) to work on cross-disciplinary collaborations in education and research that will help address climate risk issues and its relevance to our society in the Hong Kong and Great Bay Area. Together my colleagues here we plan develop a cross-scale interdisciplinary modelling framework to produce climate datasets that are impactful, relevant, and accessible to end users and policy makers.

I have completed the orientation courses to become acquainted with the HKUST teaching system and students, and will likely teach hydroclimate related courses to enrich ENVR teaching program.

What inspired you to specialize in this line of research?

We live on land and everything happened in the land surface affect our daily life. There are so many intriguing science questions to explore regarding impacts of human activities such as agriculture expansion and urbanization on regional weather, air quality and climate.

What impact do you want your work to have on society?

I will be happy to see our work save people’s life and properties and make cities more liveable and sustainable in the context of future climate change.

Do you have any advice for students interested in your research area?

As in any research area, staying curious is the key. It is important to ask science questions and relate them to societal need. Do not be shy to ask questions and seek guidance from mentors and professors who can help you in your research journey.