Job Description

The Associate Research Scientist will play a pivotal role in the launch and early development of BR-CESSA (the Belt and Road Climate, Environment and Sustainability Science Alliance), a strategic initiative of the Division of Environment and Sustainability (ENVR) at HKUST, as an academic-led, non-political platform in climate, environment and sustainability. The position centres on international outreach — establishing bilateral and multilateral Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with partner universities, research institutes and government bodies overseas, with particular emphasis on Belt and Road countries. The position is a demanding, delivery-focused role to meet with the Division’s development goals. The appointee is expected to secure signed MoUs with partner institutions in at least 10 Belt and Road countries within the first 12 months, and must be prepared for frequent international travel and meetings, and sustained work to tight deadlines and ensure the successful delivery of Inaugural Summit scheduled in Hong Kong in January 2027. The appointee will also provide project support to faculty members in the Division of Environment and Sustainability to enhance research operations and efficiency in support of their scientific goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, contact and manage relationships with potential founding scholars and institutional partners across Belt and Road countries.
• Liaise with relevant government departments, international organizations and partner bodies in support of the Alliance's activities.
• Coordinate the preparation and organization of the BR-CESSA Inaugural Summit— scholar invitations, logistics, programme scheduling and on-site support.
• Organize and administer the Belt and Road International Collaboration Fund and related funding — including funding applications, budgeting and financial tracking (accounting), tender and procurement preparation, and grant reporting.
• Support the development of joint research proposals and MoUs.
• Coordinate scientific demonstrations, field visits and technical showcases for partners, government stakeholders and visiting delegations.
• Maintain and expand the Alliance's scholar database and Talent Matching Platform.
• Manage communications, quarterly webinars and the online collaboration platform, and maintain the Alliance website and documentation.
• Service the Steering Committee and other committees — meeting materials, minutes and follow-up.
• Prepare reports and promotional content for internal and external stakeholders, and provide support to the Project Lead.
• Provid project support to faculty members in the Division of Environment and Sustainability as assigned, including but not limited to: administrative and logistical coordination, data management and organization, resource procurement and budget tracking, and documentation and reporting support.

Qualifications

• Qualifications

  • A doctoral degree (PhD) in a relevant field — e.g., Environmental Science, Environmental Health, Atmospheric/Air Quality Science, Sustainability, or a related discipline.
  • At least 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in an academic setting, including experience working in an international research environment.
  • A strong record of management in projects and programs with experience in funding administration, budgeting/accounting and tender/procurement preparation.
  • Excellent written and spoken English is essential.
  • Strong organizational, communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to deliver against demanding targets and deadlines, to manage multiple tasks and work independently in a high-pressure environment, and to undertake frequent international travel — including to Belt and Road countries — at short notice.

  Recommended / Advantageous

  • An established base of contacts or prior working relationships with scholars and institutions in Belt and Road countries.
  • Demonstrated experience working with government departments on funded projects, tenders or service agreements (e.g., environmental or public-sector agencies).
  • Experience conducting scientific demonstrations, proof-of-concept trials or technical showcases for senior stakeholders or government officials.
  • A track record in preparing funding proposals, grant/funding applications and project reports.
  • Experience in event coordination, international collaboration or academic project management.
  • Interest in sustainability, climate change and international academic networks.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

HKUST is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to our core values of inclusiveness, diversity, and respect.