Abbreviations: MW3@CAESER

Introduction

Since its establishment in 2009, the Center for Applied Social and Economic Research (CAESER) at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has been dedicated to providing policy advice to the government, supporting core technology research and development, and promoting independent innovation. As digital technology, standards, rules, and data face increasing international competition, Hong Kong, an international hub for finance, innovation, and higher education, is presented with unique opportunities. To this end, CAESER has established the Metaverse Web3 Lab, focusing on developing the new digital economy of the Metaverse Web3 and contributing to the new generation of socio-economic development models.

 

The establishment of the lab is based on the rapid development of digital technology and global technological changes. Metaverse Web3 technology will bring a new internet experience to human society, profoundly impacting our lives in various dimensions, such as economy, society, and culture. The lab will leverage HKUST's leading position and R&D advantages in integrated circuits, next-generation mobile communication, artificial intelligence, blockchain, digital twins, quantum technology, brain-like computing, and equipment materials. It will integrate interdisciplinary IT and social research, collaborating with global Metaverse Web3 experts to promote the lab's development.

 

CAESER's Metaverse Web3 Lab aims to become a world-class research center for Metaverse Web3. The lab will cooperate with global research institutions, enterprises, and governments to jointly promote Metaverse Web3 technology research, application, and popularization. The lab will actively participate in international exchanges and cooperation, inviting world-class professors, researchers, and technical experts to form an international research team, providing strong intellectual support for the lab's development. In addition, the lab will focus on cultivating high-level talents with international perspectives, innovation capabilities, and social responsibility. By implementing multi-level and multi-disciplinary training programs for graduates, PhD students, and postdoctoral researchers, the lab will provide high-quality talent for the Metaverse Web3 industry. The lab will also host academic conferences, technical seminars, innovation competitions, and other events, providing an exchange platform and academic support for researchers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers within and outside the lab.

 

To promote the application and popularization of Metaverse Web3 technology, the lab will strengthen cooperation with industry and actively participate in various project research and development. Through in-depth collaboration with enterprises and governments, the lab will achieve rapid technology implementation and industrialization, promoting the development and prosperity of the Metaverse Web3 industry. The lab will also actively engage in social welfare activities, addressing hot social issues, and providing authoritative technology popularization and scientific explanations to the public. Through public science lectures and technology exhibitions, the lab will strive to popularize Metaverse Web3-related knowledge and improve public scientific literacy and technological awareness.

 

In its future development, the lab will always adhere to the principles of innovation, collaboration, and openness, closely integrating global technology trends and industry needs to contribute to building a new generation of socio-economic development models. The lab will continuously enhance its research capabilities and academic level, striving to become a globally renowned Metaverse Web3 research institution.

 

Objectives

1. Developing core Metaverse Web3 technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence applications in the Metaverse.

2. Establishing Metaverse Web3 standards and regulations, promoting industry collaboration.

3. Developing new business models and economic systems for Metaverse Web3.

4. Exploring Metaverse Web3 applications in education, healthcare, entertainment, and other industries.

5. Studying the impact of Metaverse Web3 development on socio-economics and formulating policy recommendations.

6. Cultivating high-end technical and managerial talents in the Metaverse Web3 field.

7. International exchange and cooperation, promoting the global development of the Metaverse Web3 ecosystem.

 

Professor Pengyu ZHU

Director of the Center for Applied Social and Economic Research, HKUST