"Zhongke 804" is a rice variety developed by CAS Member LI Jiayang’s research team from the Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology.

Its design was based on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying high-yield and superior-quality traits in elite rice varieties.

Zhongke 804 was approved by national authorities in 2017 and represents a landmark achievement both in scientific theory and practical production.

It introduced a new approach to rice variety design and breeding in China, by promoting efficient, precise, and targeted molecular design and breeding in place of traditional crop breeding.