International Research Enrichment (IRE) Program

The International Research Enrichment (IRE) program is designed for students interested in pursuing a research career in science or broadening their exposure to research during their undergraduate studies. It emphasizes curiosity and grit, which are the essential attributes to a successful career in scientific research. Building upon the premise that exposure to international research environments at an early stage is essential to a fruitful research career, the program offers outstanding science students an early opportunity to nurture their research abilities and solidify their discipline-specific knowledge in regular Science programs.

 

The IRE program has the very similar curriculum structure as the Science (Group A) and Science (Group B) programs have. The IRE program further distinguishes itself from the regular science program by providing students the following:

 

  • Free choice of major programs among Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Ocean Science and Technology, and Physics

  • Tailor-made team building activities and field trips

  • Participation in advanced research projects under the supervision of world-class professors

  • Opportunities to meet with Nobel Laureates and renowned scientists

  • Individualized Research Guidance and Mentoring from experienced Faculty

  • Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)

  • Exchange opportunity in a renowned foreign university

    • Summer research internship opportunity in foreign universities and institutions

    • Scholarship support for overseas learning trips

 

For JUPAS applicants, students can apply for the IRE program through the direct choice, or apply for program transfer from the regular Science (Group A) program or Science (Group B) program after their first year of study. For non-JUPAS applicants, students interested in IRE program are encouraged to put IRE program as the first choice, with either Science (Group A) program or Science (Group B) program as the alternative choice.

 

Career Prospects:

Building upon the premise that exposure to international research environments at an early stage is essential to a fruitful research career, the program offers outstanding science students an early opportunity to nurture their research abilities and solidify their discipline-specific knowledge in regular Science programs. Most of the graduates will pursue further studies in renowned universities around the world.

 

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What are the differences among Science (Group A) program, Science (Group B) program and IRE program?

Starting from 2020 intake onwards, School of Science has divided the Science Program into two new program choices – Science (Group A) program and Science (Group B) program. The two Science programs are designed to cater to the academic needs and aspirations of students. Science (Group A) program is tailor-made for those students who are interested in the fields of Physical Science. Science (Group B) program is more suitable for those students who are interested in the fields of Chemistry and Life Science.


IRE is a pioneer study track tailor-made for students with particular interest in pursuing a research career in Science or broadening their exposure to research during their undergraduate studies. It offers students an early opportunity to nurture their research abilities in addition to discipline-specific knowledge in regular Science programs.


The IRE program has a similar curriculum structure as the Science (Group A) and Science (Group B) programs. But students admitted to the IRE program can enjoy a FREE choice among six major programs offered by the School: Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Ocean Science and Technology, and Physics. 


It further distinguishes itself from regular Science programs by providing students with:

  1. Participation in advanced research projects under the supervision of world-class professors

  2. Opportunities to meet with Nobel Laureates and renowned scientists

  3. Individualized Research Guidance and Mentoring from experienced faculty members

  4. Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)

  5. Exchange opportunity in renowned foreign universities / research institutes

  • Summer research internship opportunity in foreign universities and institutions

  • Scholarship support for overseas learning trips

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  • Through my study at HKUST, I’ve seen a much bigger world, and grown to be a much richer person intellectually and psychologically. In academic, I joined IRE and learned to be scientifically mature... 

    Zhien WANG, Abigail
    Class of 2020, BSc in Chemistry (IRE)
    Full Story »
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