This paper examines the challenges of developing research resources for leading Vietnamese universities. The first part of the paper presents the background to the study, including literature review on the challenges to research resources development, and describes the research questions and research methods. The next part provides empirical findings on types of research resources, availability of resources, and challenges for resources development at leading Vietnamese universities. In the final part, the paper discusses the major findings and provides suggestions for further analysis on Vietnam’s university research sector.