Theme-based Research Scheme
Forecasted
Theme-based Research Scheme supports university researchers tackling challenges in health, sustainability, business and emerging technologies to advance Hong Kong’s long-term development.
Funder: Hong Kong Research Grants Council
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (Preliminary proposal deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $75 million in direct project costs for up to five years; Exploratory Option up to $10 million for one year
Summary: Supports university research addressing strategic challenges in health, sustainability, business and emerging technologies important to Hong Kong’s long-term development.
Key Information: Applicants must meet RGC General Research Fund eligibility and submit through a UGC-funded university’s Research Office.
Description
The Theme-based Research Scheme (TRS), administered by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC), focuses academic research efforts at UGC-funded universities on themes of strategic importance to Hong Kong’s long-term development. Applications must address one of four designated research themes and one of its 21 grand challenge topics, spanning disease, environmental sustainability, Hong Kong’s business position, and emerging research and innovation.
Assessment emphasizes world-leading academic excellence, impact on Hong Kong, team credentials, a clear strategy and sound project structure. A discretionary Exploratory Option supports high-risk, potentially ground-breaking and highly original research that may lack preliminary supporting data or sufficient team experience.
