About the Program

The program offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to tackling global challenges through innovation in technology, policy, and entrepreneurship. The program equips students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills to address pressing issues in governance, technology management, and societal development, focusing on topics such as sustainability, health policy, digital governance, and entrepreneurship.

PhD Research Focus Areas

The program encourages exploration across a wide range of interdisciplinary topics, including but not limited to:

• Innovation and Intellectual Property Rights Protection
• Health Studies/Healthcare Policy
• Environmental Policies/Sustainability
• Technology Innovation Policy
• Digital Economy and Governance
• Experimental Economics and Decision Sciences
• Entrepreneurship and Organization Theory
• Technology and Social Development

On completion, PhD graduates will have expertise in developing and implementing innovative solutions to societal challenges and advancing knowledge at the interface of technology, policy, and entrepreneurship.

Eligibility Requirements

Essential Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field such as public policy, management, economics, environment research, engineering, or social sciences.
• Strong academic track record with demonstrated analytical and research skills.
• Proficiency in English (both written and spoken).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in quantitative and/or qualitative research methodologies.
• Strong interest in topics such as innovation strategy, entrepreneurship, technology policy, and sustainability.
• Familiarity with software tools such as R, Python, Stata, or GIS is a plus.

Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Conduct high-quality interdisciplinary research on a chosen focus area within the IPE thrust.
• Collaborate with world-class faculty and international peers.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at academic conferences.
• Engage with policymakers, industry experts, and societal stakeholders to apply research to real-world challenges.

What We Offer

Funding and Financial Support:

• Fully funded PhD scholarship: Up to RMB ¥180,000 per year for up to 4 years.
• Additional funding through the Overseas Research Travel Grant (RTG) for attending international conferences and conducting research abroad.

Academic and Professional Development:

• Collaboration with leading international scholars and participation in interdisciplinary research initiatives.
• Opportunities to work alongside experts in innovation, entrepreneurship, and policy research.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources.

Global Recognition:

• Degree awarded by HKUST Hong Kong, ensuring international recognition and academic excellence.

Additional Benefits:

• Comprehensive mentorship and support for career development.
• Immersion in an international research environment with diverse faculty and students.
• Opportunity to study in the vibrant, innovation-driven city of Guangzhou, China.

Application Process

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but early submission is highly encouraged due to limited seats.

How to Apply:

1. Complete the online application via the HKUST Guangzhou Admissions Portal .
2. Submit the following documents:
   • Personal statement (highlighting research interests and motivation).
   • Updated CV with academic and research achievements.
   • Copies of transcripts and degree certificates.
   • Contact details of two referees.

Deadline: June 15, 2025

For detailed scholarship information, visit the Scholarships and Fees page.