Griffith University and the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN)

Griffith University is proud to be a member of the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), a global alliance of 24 leading comprehensive research universities in a collaborative partnership to advance research and education on major global challenges. Capitalising on the geographical and cultural diversity of members across six continents, WUN enriches their shared experience, and brings together distinctive constellations of talent to address problems of real significance.

Joining WUN in 2024 demonstrates Griffith’s commitment to addressing critical global challenges through international collaboration and interdisciplinary research.

Discover more about WUN and Griffith’s contributions: Worldwide Universities Network.

Our Engagement with WUN

As part of WUN, Griffith University contributes to global research initiatives that align with its mission to create a better future. These initiatives focus on addressing the world’s most pressing issues:

  • Climate Change and Sustainability: Griffith researchers collaborate globally to develop sustainable solutions and enhance climate resilience.
  • Global Public Health: Griffith contributes to reducing health disparities and advancing health outcomes through innovative, multidisciplinary research.
  • Equitable Higher Education: Our engagement helps shape the future of education by promoting inclusivity and equity in knowledge access.
  • Cultural and Social Understanding: Griffith researchers work to address societal challenges and strengthen cross-cultural understanding, enhancing global connections.

A Message from Our Vice Chancellor

‘We are delighted to join WUN and be part of a global network of outstanding universities that are dedicated to addressing key global challenges. We look forward to partnering with other members in a way that is impactful, collaborative, and purpose-driven.’

– Professor Carolyn Evans, Vice Chancellor and President, Griffith University

Benefits for Griffith University

This membership provides Griffith students, researchers, and staff with unparalleled opportunities to engage with a global network:

  • Research Collaboration: Participate in joint research projects, access seed funding through the WUN Research Development Fund, and contribute to addressing critical global challenges.
  • Student Mobility: Access innovative global learning experiences that enhance skills and broaden perspectives of Griffith University students.
  • Workshops and Conferences: Join international workshops, symposia, and events to share ideas, build partnerships, and strengthen research impact.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with academic leaders and early-career researchers across the WUN network to explore new ideas and opportunities.

Griffith University plays an active role in WUN by contributing to research, thought leadership, and impactful initiatives. Our commitment to sustainability, social justice, and innovation aligns with WUN’s vision of creating solutions to global challenges.

WUN Research Development Fund (RDF)

The WUN Research Development fund (RDF) is a key initiative that offers seed funding for innovative, interdisciplinary projects involving WUN partners. It supports early-stage research and helps build strong international teams to pursue external funding opportunities.

The WUN Research Development Fund (RDF) is a gateway to innovation, collaboration, and impactful research, aiming to address global challenges through interdisciplinary team efforts.

Focus Areas

The RDF seeks proposals in areas such as:

  • Social justice and human rights; inequality
  • Sustainable world: cities and urbanization; energy transitions; water and food security
  • Mental health; child and maternal health; ageing
  • Responsible and ethical applications of Artificial Intelligence



Application Process

The call for the 2025 WUN Research Development Fund (RDF) is now open. To be considered for shortlisting and to receive an invitation to proceed to the application stage, complete the internal Expression of Interest by Friday 8 August.

For any questions, email preaward@griffith.edu.au. Please read the WUN Research Development Fund Guidelines for comprehensive details.

Learn More

To discover more about Griffith University’s role in the Worldwide Universities Network and how you can get involved, contact a member of the International Partnerships team or email international-partnerships@griffith.edu.au