HEC CPEC Consortium: Six-Month Research Placements in China for MS/MPhil & PhD (Apply by 2026-08-14)

Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan invites applications from eligible Pakistani/AJK MS/MPhil and PhD scholars for six-month research placements in China under the CPEC Consortium of Universities. The scheme aims to strengthen Pakistan-China academic linkages and advance research in national priority and emerging fields.

Key Eligibility Requirements

- Pakistani/AJK nationals enrolled full time in an MS/MPhil or PhD program at a recognized Pakistani higher education institution.

- The proposed work in China must be directly connected to the applicant’s degree research and feasible within a maximum of six months.

- An official acceptance/invitation from a Chinese university, institute or laboratory describing the research area, host supervisor and proposed duration is required.

- The host university must be a member of the CPEC Consortium of Universities.

Additional Conditions

- PhD applicants: completion of PhD coursework is required. Applicants must be eligible after 18 months of enrolment and up to a maximum of 3.5 years measured on the closing date. Research topic and synopsis must be approved by BASR, DASR or an equivalent competent university body.

- MS/MPhil applicants: completion of at least 18 credit hours and entry into the thesis/research stage with the research topic approved by the host university/department.

Priority Research Areas (examples)

• Emerging Technologies: AI, machine learning, data science, cyber security, robotics, automation and related disciplines.
• Water, Environment & Climate: water/wastewater treatment, desalination, water security, environmental engineering, climate resilience.
• Energy & Green Technologies: renewables, storage, smart grids, green hydrogen, energy efficiency.
• Advanced Industry & Earth Resources: advanced manufacturing, materials, minerals, geosciences, marine and coastal technologies.
• Agriculture, Food & Biotechnology: precision agriculture, food security, agricultural biotechnology.
• Infrastructure, Transport & Logistics; Health & Life Sciences; Society, Economy & CPEC studies and related social sciences.

Notes: Shortlisted candidates will be notified about required supporting documents. For full application instructions and complete eligibility details, visit the HEC application page: www.hec.gov.pk/Site/ACCU.