Research Talent Hub for ITF Projects (RTH-ITF) - Eligibility Extended to Talents with Bachelor's and Master's degree obtained from non-local institution

Further to the launching the NEW Research Talent Hub for ITF Projects (RTH-ITF) in July 2020, please note that the ITC has updated the eligibility requirement with immediate effect to cover holders of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)-related discipline awarded by well-recognized non-local institution with reference to the lists refer by ITC.  

The RTH aims to provide more flexibility funding support for organisations/companies undertaking research and development (R&D) projects funded by the Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF) to engage research talent to conduct R&D work.  Please note the details below for information.

Eligibility of Research Talent

1. must possess a bachelor/top-up bachelor/master/doctoral degree of STEM-related discipline (i.e. science, technology, engineering and mathematics) awarded by either a local university or a well-recognized non-local institution, or jointly awarded by a local university together with a non-local university.
2. degree obtained from non-local institution is eligible if the awarding institution is among the top 100 institutions for a STEM-related subjects. 
3. must be legally permitted to work in Hong Kong, and in the relevant field which he/she is to be engaged in research project.

Engagement Period of Research Talent

1. should be no less than 6 months, in general up to 36 months on full-time basis.  The engagement period should not overlap with any other of the same kind under the RTH.
2. research talent who has been engaged under the RTH and has subsequently obtained a first doctoral degree is allowed a fresh 36-month engagement period under the RTH.

Remuneration

Qualification of the research talent/ Maximum monthly allowance/ MPF contribution

a) Bachelor degree: HK$18,000 + HK$900 (MPF)

b) Master degree: HK$21,000 + HK$1,050 (MPF)

c) Doctoral degree: HK$32,000 + HK$1,500 (MPF)

Application Procedure

• Applicant should have its ITF-funded project approved and a candidate selected/identified before submission of the application via ITCFAS. 
• Relevant supporting document, including certified copies of academic qualification certificate should be attached.  
• Fresh application should be submitted for additional or replacement of research talent. 

Deadline

Applications are accepted all year round

Enquiries

Veronica Keung (Email: ocvkeung@ust.hk, Tel: 2358 6949)