HKUST GLOBAL KNOWLEDGE NETWORK (GKN)

HKUST has established Joint Research Seed Grant programs with numerous institution partners across the globe. These initiatives have effectively promoted global research efforts, paving the way for extended collaborations and knowledge transfer.

 

In a bid to amplify the advantages of international research partnerships, HKUST is dedicated to establishing a global knowledge network with more international partners. Through the network, thematic research groups will be formed on strategic topics.

 

 

Funding Purpose

The Global Knowledge Network (GKN) Funding initiative by HKUST has been established with the primary goal of fostering partnerships and promoting joint research. It is a collaborative network that includes renowned partners across six targeted regions: Europe, North America, Oceania, North Asia, Southeast Asia, as well as the Middle East and Central Asia. 

 

By uniting the faculty of HKUST and our partner institutions, the GKN Fund encourages the development of joint projects. These collaborations have the potential to not only foster new research partnerships but also to broaden existing ones, all while making significant academic and societal impact. The funding serves as an initial financial catalyst for early-stage research or projects aimed at enhancing institutional capacity.

Areas of Focus

The partnership will encompass, but not limited to the following research areas in alignment with the University’s strategic development plan and global agenda:

Selection Criteria and Process

Applications will be assessed by selection committees at both HKUST and the Partner Institution. Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Partnership & strategic relevance: how the project will be shared with the broader academic communities at each institution and how it will promote and consolidate the relationship between the two universities; how the project contributes to realizing university strategies and supports the research or teaching priorities of the department/school.
  • Academic quality and innovation: their potential to contribute to innovative thought and the likelihood for cross-disciplinary contributions.
  • Expected outcomes: a clear plan for the project and the potential that it will lead to a long-term or sustainable research, and how the project can be transferred to other levels, such as at local, regional or national, and how the work may gain wide recognition and/or have a legacy impact once completed.

Eligible Grant

Costs that are directly linked to the project activities, include:

  • Organization of joint meetings, seminars or workshops
  • Development of shared online resources, e.g., video production
  • Consumables needed for the implementation of the project
  • Promotion of publications and events/dissemination of results
  • Travel, accommodation and meal costs

Please note that the costs shall not cover the followings:

  • The project that was the recipient of GKN funding in the previous year
  • Costs already incurred prior to submission of the proposal

Enquiry

For information about the application period, guideline and requirements, please contact the Global Engagement and Communications Office at global@ust.hk.