Educational and research complex officially completes in Shanghai’s innovation district

The HKU School of Computing and Data Science in Shanghai’s Zhangjiang Jizhi Hi-Tech Park has officially completed, marking a major milestone in the continued growth of one of China’s leading science and technology hubs.

Designed around a philosophy of “openness and sharing”, the project creates a highly connected, people-focused innovation environment that combines advanced research facilities with a rich public-realm experience.

Positioned on a 40,000 m² site within the rapidly expanding Zhangjiang R&D and industrial zone, the development benefits from excellent regional connectivity, located just 25 minutes from Pudong International Airport and under 40 minutes from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, Shanghai Railway Station and Shanghai South Railway Station.

The 161,000 m² scheme, formerly known as Zhangjiang Gaoke Office Park, introduces a new generation of flexible, innovation-led R&D space arranged across seven clusters of office buildings. The layout has been carefully designed to allow spaces to be divided or combined to support the evolving needs of technology, research and education occupiers.

Architecturally, the project comprises seven staggered towers linked by aerial walkways that frame a layered central courtyard. Transparent glass curtain walls and clean, minimalist facades create a contemporary identity, while grand staircases, circular ramps, sunken plazas and rooftop gardens establish a three-dimensional sequence of interconnected public spaces.

A central landscaped belt running along the north-south axis seamlessly integrates office circulation and commuting routes, encouraging interaction, collaboration and movement throughout the campus. The development’s green and low-carbon design principles further reinforce its role as a future-focused workplace and research destination.

The project has now become home to the Hong Kong University (HKU) School of Computing and Data Science, which has officially established its Shanghai presence within the campus. Developed in collaboration with Shanghai authorities, the initiative strengthens the university’s research and teaching capabilities in artificial intelligence, computer science and data science, positioning the campus at the centre of one of China’s most significant innovation ecosystems.

With HKU now fully in residence, the complex is set to become a major destination for education, research, and innovation, reinforcing Zhangjiang’s status as a world-leading science and technology cluster.