Introducing the latest addition to our "Meet Our Faculty" series!

We are excited to spotlight Prof. Wenhan LUO, Associate Professor of the Division of Emerging Interdisciplinary Areas (EMIA). With a rich background spanning from academia to tech giants like Tencent and Amazon, Prof. LUO brings a unique perspective of Artificial Intelligence Generated Content (AIGC) and machine learning to EMIA.

Join us as we explore Prof. LUO's inspiring research journey and his vision for AI's societal impact!
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Could you tell us more about you? 

I am originally from China and have had the privilege of working in various prestigious institutions and companies globally. I joined HKUST because of its vibrant research community and commitment to innovation in technology and science. My journey in academia and industry, including roles at Sun Yat-sen University, Tencent, Amazon, and Imperial, has equipped me with a diverse set of skills and insights into real-world applications of computer vision and machine learning.

Currently, my research focuses on Artificial Intelligence Generated Content (AIGC), exploring how AI can create and enhance digital content across different media. This fall, I am excited to teach the course "Practical Machine Learning" where I aim to provide students with hands-on experience and practical knowledge in applying machine learning techniques to solve real-world problems. I look forward to contributing to the HKUST community and collaborating with colleagues and students on groundbreaking research projects.

What inspired you to specialize in this line of research?

My fascination with computer vision and machine learning stems from a lifelong curiosity about how machines can perceive and understand the world around us. We live in an era where digital content is pervasive, and the ability to generate, interpret, and manipulate this content has profound implications for various industries and everyday life. The potential to solve complex problems and create innovative solutions using AI is what drew me to this field. By specializing in AIGC, I am driven to explore how AI can transform digital media, from enhancing user experiences to revolutionizing content creation. This journey allows me to address intriguing questions about the intersection of technology and human creativity, and how advancements in AI can shape the future of digital interactions.

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

I aspire for my work to significantly enhance the way we interact with and experience digital content, making technology more intuitive and accessible for everyone. By advancing the field of AIGC, I hope to empower creators and innovators, enabling them to produce high-quality content with greater efficiency and creativity. I will be happy to see my research contribute to making digital tools more user-friendly, fostering creativity, and supporting industries such as entertainment, education, and healthcare. Ultimately, I aim for my work to bridge the gap between technology and human creativity, making technology an even more integral and beneficial part of our daily lives.

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

It is essential to keep an open mind and be receptive to new ideas and approaches. Innovation often comes from exploring diverse perspectives and thinking outside the box. Additionally, dare to think and act boldly. Don’t be afraid to tackle challenging problems or pursue ambitious projects. 

Could you share a fun fact about you?

A fun fact about me is that I love cooking. It's a delightful contrast to the rigorous nature of research. Cooking relies heavily on experience, something I'm actively building up.