Restructure of China’s Leading Science Institute to Emphasize Cutting-Edge Research

The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), China’s premier scientific institute, has recently undergone a restructuring to enhance its capabilities in frontier and basic research. New bureaus have been established to focus on frontier sciences and basic research, sustainable development research, and basic science and technology capacity. These bureaus replace previous departments that were also involved in education, science promotion, and dissemination.

China has been increasing its efforts in innovation and technological advancements to counter challenges from other countries and propel economic growth through technology and advanced manufacturing. The new bureaus will concentrate on research areas such as life science, atmospheric and oceanic sciences, and interdisciplinary studies, while overseeing major scientific research programs.

The frontier sciences and basic research bureau is responsible for leading disciplines including mathematics, astronomy, life sciences, and fundamental interdisciplinary frontiers. With pressure to bridge the technology gap with advanced economies, China’s leaders are advocating for original innovation and disruptive innovations that can revolutionize industries and human life.

However, despite China’s ambitions to become a tech superpower by the mid-century and overcome tech restrictions from other countries, original innovation has been an area of weakness. Efforts are being made at the city and provincial levels to develop new sectors like artificial intelligence and the “low-altitude economy” driven by drones. Quantum and life sciences have been identified by the central government as emerging industries for future growth during recent economic conferences.