The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), China’s leading scientific research institute, has recently undergone a restructuring to enhance its capabilities in frontier and basic research. New bureaus have been established to focus on cutting-edge sciences, 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 is increasing its efforts in innovation and technological advancements to remain competitive with other countries and drive 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 bureau will lead 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, 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 science has been identified by the central government as an emerging industry for future growth during recent economic conferences.
