Joining the Department of Architecture at Hong Kong University in 2023, Dr. Hongshan Guo presents a harmonious blend of architectural aesthetics and robust architectural engineering. Trained initially at Harbin Institute of Technology, and later refined at Columbia and Princeton Universities, she embodies the synthesis of architectural finesse with the precision of engineering. Layered onto this foundation is an affinity for predictive technologies, born from her distinctive background that melds the complexities of built environments with advanced computational models. Her research pursuits gravitate towards understanding radiant environments, thermal comfort, and enhancing the human experience within architectural spaces/processes through advanced models/techniques.

A core thread running through Dr. Guo’s academic explorations is the profound influence of radiant environments in perceived thermal comfort. With a series of works investigating the intricacies of mean radiant temperature in both indoor and outdoor settings, she offers insights into how thermal comfort shapes and is shaped by the spaces we inhabit. Complementing this is her emphasis on integrating architectural designs with sustainable energy mechanisms, notably photovoltaics and geothermal solutions, championing an approach that benefits both the environment and the occupants.

Hongshan’s expertise is not just limited to academia. With a patented technique in time series predictive analytics under her belt—recognized with the Gartner Eye on Innovation Award Americas in 2020—and a strategic role in a leading Fortune 500 financial company, she subtly harnessed the capabilities of Large Language Models. Here, she pioneered applications that paired architectural and engineering insights with the immense predictive capacities of modern AI alongside generative models such as LLMs and stable diffusion models.

As she takes her next steps at Hong Kong University, Hongshan brings a vision that seamlessly melds age-old architectural ethos with cutting-edge engineering solutions and technological insights, promising a transformative journey for the architectural community at the institution.