Prof. Guo Feng, a distinguished alumnus of the Department of Mechanical Engineering (MNE) at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK), exemplifies the impact of rigorous academic training and research leadership. Currently serving as the Dean of the School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering at Qingdao University of Technology (QUT), Prof. Guo has made groundbreaking contributions to the field of tribology research and advanced lubrication technology. His work has not only advanced academic knowledge but also had a profound impact on industrial applications, enhancing machine performance and reducing friction.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Prof. Guo's academic journey began at Qingdao Architectural Engineering University, the former QUT, where he earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering. His passion for deeper research led him to pursue a PhD at CityUHK's MNE Department, where he developed the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that would later define his leadership in both research and education. Under the supervision of Prof. P.L. Wong, Prof. Guo's work in lubrication systems made significant contributions to the field.
Upon completing his PhD and postdoctoral work at CityUHK, Prof. Guo joined Qingdao University of Technology. There, he established the Advanced Lubrication Technology Research Group, which has since become a leader in lubrication science. His team has developed innovative measurement systems capable of accurately measuring lubrication oil films from nanoscale to micronscale, advancing industries like precision machinery, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), and artificial organs.
Prof. Guo has published more than 260 journal papers, delivered more than 30 conference presentations and been granted more than 30 Chinese patents. His leadership has extended to academic governance, serving on the academic committee of the National Tribology Laboratory at Tsinghua University, as well as holding editorial roles with prominent journals such as the Friction and the Tribology International Journal.
Prof. Guo's influence extends beyond academia. His PhD student, Dr. Jing Zhaogang, founded Qingdao GreenLub Times Advanced Lubrication Technology Co. Ltd. in 2019, a company that has seen tremendous success with a sales revenue of 8.71 million RMB and a profit of 2.8 million RMB as of June 2023. This achievement underscores Prof. Guo's influence on both academic and industrial leadership.
The Impact of MNE CityUHK on His Career
Prof. Guo fondly recalls how his time at MNE CityUHK shaped his career. “MNE provided me with world-class research vision and opportunities and a collaborative environment," Prof. Guo reflects. The mentorship from Prof. P.L. Wong and the rigorous training in research methodology provided him with a strong foundation that he applied to his work in tribology and lubrication technologies.
Research and Leadership at QUT
At QUT, Prof. Guo has expanded his research group to a full-fledged lab, the Advanced Lubrication Technology Research Group, which focuses on thin film lubrication—a crucial technology for reducing friction and wear in machinery. The team has developed new lubrication systems, in collaboration with industrial partners, to enhance the efficiency of machinery and systems in sectors such as automotive, high-speed precision machinery, and medical devices.
His research group consists of 4 full professors, 12 associate professors and lecturers, and more than 90 postdocs, PhD students, and master's students, all dedicated to advancing research in lubrication science.
Advice for Students and Future Generations of Engineers
To current students at MNE CityUHK, Prof. Guo offers valuable advice: "Be curious, stay updated on emerging technologies, embrace interdisciplinary learning, and seek real-world applications for your research." He encourages students to think beyond the theoretical aspects of engineering and to collaborate with industry to bring innovations to life.
Future Vision
Looking ahead, Prof. Guo continues to push the boundaries of tribology research and lubrication technologies. His current projects include developing energy-efficient lubrication systems for high-performance machinery and enhancing the precision of lubrication measurements. His vision is to continue bridging academia and industry, advancing technology to solve global challenges.