Kin Wai Michael Siu

Kin Wai Michael Siu is the Eric C. Yim Professor in Inclusive Design and Chair Professor of Public Design at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). He founded the Public Design Lab and directs two joint research centers: the PolyU-HIT Inclusive Environment Center and the PolyU-WUT Ship/Marine Aesthetic Design Lab. His roles include PhD/postdoc supervision, coordination of design research methods, and extensive editorial/advisory board memberships.

• PhD, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
• PhD, University of Bath
• MSc, City University of Hong Kong
• MA, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
• MEd, The University of Hong Kong
• BA(Hons), Loughborough University of Technology

A leading figure in inclusive design, Siu integrates Vygotsky's ZPD and Bruner's scaffolding theory into his 'Scaffolding Innovation' framework. His work balances creative design with technological application, focusing on inclusive public spaces (playgrounds, country parks, recycling facilities) and pandemic prevention strategies (e.g., COVID-19/NID mitigation through design). Recent projects explore AI-enhanced recycling, bioinspired wearables, and cultural heritage semiotics.

His publications span design education, participatory design, and cross-cultural heritage preservation, with a fingerprint highlighting 'Public Design', 'Inclusive Design', 'Visually Impaired', 'Cultural Semantics', and 'Spatial Practice'. Key collaborators include researchers from Hong Kong, China, and international institutions.

Scientific Awards:

• 2024 G Cross Award for Excellent Guidance (Instructor)
• 2024 Hong Kong Contemporary Design Awards for Exceptional Advisor
• Multiple international design/invention awards (over 100 total)
• 2008 Romanian Ministry Invention Awards for Rapid Demountable Platform (RDP)

Awarded over 50 patents, Siu has secured numerous external grants for public design innovations. His Public Design Lab collaborates with institutions like Tsinghua University, MIT, and Cambridge, while his editorial roles span design, engineering, and education journals.