Speakers
Francis Au obtained his BSc (Eng.), MSc (Eng.) and PhD from The University of Hong Kong. He returned to the University in 1988 following 7 years of practical experience in the industry, and is engaged in research in bridge engineering and concrete structures.
He has been involved in various projects, including the structural health monitoring system of the Lantau Fixed Crossing, vibration tests of bridge segments of Tsing Ma Bridge, vibration tests of Ting Kau Bridge, study of marine construction industry, road surface failure on bridges, and development of bridge design software and shrinkage problems of large podium structures. He was the recipient of HKIE Transactions Prize 2002 (Civil), Best Teacher Award 2003-04, Faculty of Engineering, HKU, OVM Paper Award for Prestressing 2009 (Class 1) of China Civil Engineering Society and OVM Paper Award for Prestressing 2012 (Class 2) of China Civil Engineering Society.
James Norman has 12 years design experience working for Ramboll and Integral Engineering Design. He has nine years’ academic experience, including a PhD at the University of Bristol. He has designed buildings out of mud, timber, steel and lots and lots of concrete, and worked for a year on the facade of the extension to the Tate Modern. James authored Structural timber elements: a pre-scheme design guide and is Associate Professor of Sustainable Design.