BACKGROUND

WUN is a leading global higher education and research network with 23 research-led universities across six continents. It fosters distinctive international research collaborations directed at problems of global significance. Since joining the network in 2011, CUHK has been making use of this strategic platform for internationalization and research capacity building.

RDF provides one year of seed funds (up to £10,000 per project and matched by CUHK) to foster innovative, internationally collaborative research programmes among WUN members through exploratory activities, with a view to stimulating larger projects and applications for major external grants.

To view the past awards made by WUN, please refer to this page.

WUN RDF 2026

WUN is inviting proposals that address problems in one or more of the following areas within the context of sustainable development are encouraged:

• Social justice and human rights; Inequality
• Sustainable world: cities and urbanization; energy transitions; water and food security
• Mental health; Child and maternal health; Ageing
• Responsible and ethical applications of AI

The 2026 round has been designed as a transition to WUN’s future approach to supporting research collaboration. Hence, a smaller number of applications will be supported this year (up to 10), with each member university allowed to nominate just one application. Applications should therefore properly align with the above-mentioned areas.

Applicants from CUHK must be full-time academic staff at Assistant Professor rank or Research Assistant Professor rank or above. Projects led by early career researchers are especially encouraged. For further details, please refer to the internal circular and programme guidelines.

GUIDELINES/FORM DOWNLOAD

Applicants can access the internal call circular, RDF guidelines, and Concept Note (internal application form) below:  

• Internal circular with RDF Guidelines (staff ID with DUO required)
• Concept Note (an eForm)

Internal application deadline: Friday, 4 September 2026

For enquiries, please contact Ms. Yvonne Heung of OAL.