NSFC, CAS to Carry out Strategic Studies on Scientific Disciplines
National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) signed an agreement on April 16 to carry out research on China's development strategies for scientific disciplines from 2011 to 2020.
The program aims to foster a balanced sustainable development in all disciples, and bring the talent of CAS, China's major think tank into full play. The main task involves investigation of the development patterns of scientific disciplines, basic research, talent-training and environment construction.
NSFC and CAS also established a steering committee in line with the agreement to carry out strategic studies and set up research teams led by scientists of strategic studies. The project will propose about which disciplines should be given priority for development within two years.
The research result will provide foundation for strategic planning in basic research and researchers will also offer suggestions and policies on enhancing China's basic science research.
A balanced sustainable discipline composition lays the foundation for scientific research and the training of scientists and technicians. China is undergoing a critical period in terms of science and technology development. It is of great importance to conduct strategic research in discipline development so as to make key breakthroughs and foster scientific progress, noted CAS officials.
