Research Mixer: Navigating the path to GRF and ECS success
The Research Office (RO) hosted another successful edition of its flagship "Research Mixer" series on 15 April 2026. This session focused on elucidating the application processes for the General Research Fund (GRF) and Early Career Scheme (ECS) for the HKBU research community.
The event was opened with an informative briefing by Trudi Chan (Head of Admin, RO), provided a comprehensive overview of the GRF and ECS application frameworks, detailing critical timelines and requirements while highlighting essential "must-dos" to ensure a seamless start for prospective candidates.
Building on the procedural overview, Professor Xia Yiji (Chair Professor in Biology, Faculty of Science) and Professor Guo Meiyu (Assistant Professor, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences) shared their experiences as successful – and unsuccessful – applicants of the GRF and ECS.
“Your proposal must demonstrate a potentially significant scope of discovery that advances your specific fields of research,” said Professor Xia.
With an application history dating back to 2001, Professor Xia drew upon decades of experience to highlight the pivotal details that turned the tide of his submissions. He demonstrated how a meticulous, care-oriented approach to every component eventually transformed his trajectory, illustrating a clear path from his early attempts to consistent funding success.
“Like many others, my journey has been shaped by both successes and setbacks. Looking back, those periods of challenge were extremely valuable in fostering my professional growth,” said Professor Guo.
Sharing a journey of perseverance, Professor Guo discussed the ups and downs of her application endeavours. She offered valuable insights into the lessons gained from her initial attempts at both schemes and demonstrated how she transformed panel feedback into a winning strategy, securing funding through rigorous and strategic resubmissions.
To facilitate deeper dialogue, a panel discussion explored the robust institutional support available at both faculty and departmental levels. The conversation centred on comprehensive mentorship and formal proposal reviews conducted by senior faculty, critical resources that help applicants refine their research objectives. Beyond administrative assistance, the panellists shared personal reflections on the transformative impact these funds have had, noting how such support serves as a catalyst for an awardee's long-term academic trajectory.
Led by Professor Christy Cheung (Director of the Research Office; Chair Professor in Information Systems and Digital Innovation Management, School of Business) who is also a RGC Senior Research Fellow recipient, the panel discussion featured three panellists: Professor Xu Jianliang (Chair Professor and Head of the Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Science), Professor Yang Chun (Associate Dean (Research); Chair Professor in Human Geography, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences), and Professor Zhu Furong (Associate Dean (Research and Postgraduate Studies); Chair Professor in Physics, Faculty of Science).
Research Office wishes all applicants smooth and successful applications in the upcoming GSF and ECS cycles. We look forward to hearing your good news and welcoming you again at future events.
For the upcoming events of the “Research Mixer” series, please stay tuned to our event page. Stay informed of research breakthroughs and news from our remarkable HKBU researchers on our LinkedIn page.
