Sixty-one Chinese and 12 foreign scholars were recently inducted as members into the Academic Divisions of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), bringing total Chinese and foreign membership to 739 and 76, respectively.

Nine female scientists were elected CAS member this year. (Image by Xinhua)

These inductees are the first new members since the Academy revised its charter to cut administrative interference last year.

Nine female scientists were among the group, the largest number of females since the induction regulation was adopted in 1992.

As the highest national academic title in science and technology, CAS membership is a lifelong honor. “Yet it is regarded more as a beginning,” said LI Peng, a new female member this year. “New research and academic efforts are needed to make oneself worthy.”

The Academic Divisions of CAS play an important role as the top think tank involved in China’s economic and social development. The Academic Divisions produce dozens of consulting reports and suggestions on key issues every year, supporting state decision-making on economic and social development, national security and progress in science and technology.

Members also have a responsibility to model academic integrity and advance their fields.

“You have more to do. You must set an academic example for younger scholars and newcomers,” said ZHOU Qi, a researcher from the Institute of Zoology, also a newly elected member this year.

The 12 foreign scientists newly inducted into the Academy come from six countries and include two Nobel laureates, Prof. Robert H. Grubbs of the California Institute of Technology and Prof. Paul Nurse of the Francis Crick Institute.

New foreign members also include Prof. Markku T. Kulmala of the University of Helsinki, the first CAS foreign member from Finland, and Prof. Atta-ur Rahman of the University of Karachi, the first foreign member from Pakistan.

Foreign scientists who have made important contributions to the cause of science and technology in China and who enjoy high international academic standing may be nominated for CAS membership.

CAS elects new members every two years.