HKU Scientists Achieve Record Results in NSFC Funding Exercise

Young scientists from The University of Hong Kong received record recognition during the 2026 National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) funding exercise, securing the highest number of grants among local institutions in the Young Scientists Fund (A) this year, and the highest cumulative totals in both the Young Scientists Fund (A) and Young Scientists Fund (B) since the schemes were opened to Hong Kong and Macao institutions.

Four HKU scholars were selected under the Young Scientists Fund (A). Formerly known as the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, it supports outstanding young researchers in conducting innovative fundamental science research. Each awardee will receive RMB 4 million over a five-year period.

A further seven HKU scholars secured support under the Young Scientists Fund (B), formerly the Excellent Young Scientists Fund, which supports young scientists who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in fundamental research and are poised to become future leaders in their fields. Each will receive RMB 2 million over three years.

In total, 11 HKU researchers received RMB 30 million in NSFC funding through the two schemes.

The results reflect HKU's sustained commitment to nurturing interdisciplinary research talent and advancing scientific discovery, the University said in a statement. It added that it will continue to foster a vibrant research environment, supporting young scholars in conducting cutting-edge research and empowering them to address global challenges.