Student Track Guidelines
From Problem Solver to Agenda Setter
Seeking the boldest questions from next-generation researchers
Purpose
Seoul National University Grand Quest Initiative
Seoul National University seeks to move beyond solving problems to defining the questions that matter.
The Grand Quest Project invites all members of SNU to take part as questioners. Questions that shape the future of scholarship can emerge at any career stage. A question that emerged while exploring another field, a sense of unease when beginning a research project, a moment of pause before a single sentence in a textbook—any of these can become the seed of a new field of inquiry.
Through this call, we invite the boldest questions SNU students have been exploring.
These questions will serve as key discussion materials for the Grand Quest Design Board Workshop, and help shape the “Grand Quest” presented by SNU.
Meaningful beginnings start not with solutions, but with questions. There is no need to hesitate simply because you do not yet know enough. Even if the question is still rough, or the answer is not yet in sight, it is still worth asking.
Reference Materials
About:
What is Grand Quest?
Grand Quest is the fundamental question that challenges prevailing assumptions, introduces a new conceptual framework, and opens the way for a distinct new field of research.
Key Features of Grand Quest:- Challenges prevailing assumptions and proposes new conceptual frameworks.
- Sets directions for exploration rather than offering specific solutions.
- Opens new starting points from which many researchers can pursue their own lines of inquiry.
Call Topics
Open to all academic disciplines
We invite questions that challenge prevailing assumptions and propose new conceptual frameworks or bold hypotheses. We encourage bold and original questions rather than proposals that simply extend existing lines of research.
The 2026 call places particular emphasis on social impact and focuses on three themes: "Age of Artificial Intelligence", "Future of Life," and "Challenge of Sustainability." Please propose challenging questions related to these themes from various perspectives.
Eligibility
SNU students
- SNU Graduate Students (Master's & Doctoral students, including research students)
- SNU Undergraduate Students
- Individuals or teams (open to all departments and disciplines; Interdisciplinary teams possible)
- For team submissions, please specify the eligibility category of each team member.
Selection and
Benefits
Number of Selections:
Up to 40 proposals
| Benefit Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Award | 5,000,000 KRW per selected proposal (Taxes and public charges are the responsibility of the recipient) |
| SNU Grand Quest Maker Certificate | Certificate award and website listing |
| Participation in Grand Quest Events | Opportunity to present selected questions at the SNU Grand Quest event and share with the SNU community |
| Expert Review | Constructive feedback provided by the Review Committee, including the SNU Grand Quest Design Board |
| Expert Networking | Opportunities to participate in networking activities with experts across academia, industry, and research institutes |
| Next-Generation Questioner Designation | Recognized as next-generation questioner, multiple opportunities to participate in follow-up initiative activities |
Schedule
| Phase | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Application Period | March 17 (Tue) – April 17 (Fri), 2026, until 23:59 KST |
| Review | April – May 2026 |
| Announcement of Results | June 5 (Fri), 2026 |
Evaluation Criteria
Evaluation is based solely on the merits of the question
The applicant’s affiliation, position, and name will not be disclosed to the reviewers. Proposals will be evaluated solely on the strength of the question itself.
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01
Reexamining Established Assumptions
Does the proposal clearly identify and challenge the dominant assumptions that shape the field?
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02
Proposing a Novel Framework
Does it move beyond criticizing existing assumptions and propose a new conceptual trajectory?
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03
Qualitative Discontinuity
Does it propose a fundamentally new path rather than an incremental improvement?
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04
Potential as New Starting Points
Does this question open the possibility of a new area of research for researchers?
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05
Potential for Public Contribution
If this question is thoroughly investigated, can it catalyze irreversible transformations across academia and society?
Application Process
- Submissionvia Email
- Blind Document Review
- Announcement of ResultsJune 5, 2026
- SNU Grand Quest Forum
- Participation in Follow-up Activities
Notes
- This call seeks questions, not research plans. Solutions, experimental designs, or methodologies are not required.
- All submitted proposals are subject to a blind review process. Please ensure that the proposal body does not include any information that could identify the proposer or their affiliation.
- Proposals that expand ongoing research for dissertation are not eligible.
- Research already supported by national R&D programs or other funding bodies may not be submitted to this call.
- Individuals or small teams are encouraged to apply.
- Appeals regarding the review process or results will not be accepted.
Submission Guidelines
Please complete the provided form and submit it
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Submissiongrandquest@snu.ac.kr
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SUBMISSION FORMATMS Word file (.doc, .docx)
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LengthUp to 1,000 characters
Including all materials; submissions exceeding the limit may not be reviewed
- Please complete the template and submit it without additional attachments.
- Please review the self-checklist before submission (Submission not required).