National Natural Science Foundation

The National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) is an organization under the State Council for the management of the National Natural Science Fund. In accordance with government guiding principles, policies and plans for the national development of science and technology, the NSFC directs, coordinates and financially supports basic research and applied basic research, identifies and fosters scientific talents and promotes the development of science and technology. The Foundation compiles and distributes the Guide to Programs for Basic and Applied Basic Research, collects research proposals from universities and institutions all over the country, prepares peer reviews and holds sessions of evaluation panels to select proposals that are to be provided with grants. The NSFC also provides, at request, advice on major issues related to the national strategic development of basic and applied basic research in China, and renders support to activities sponsored by national specialized science foundations, and provides them with its coordination and guidance in their plans and decisions of research programs. The NSFC has developed cooperative relations with science foundations and relevant scientific organizations in other countries and regions, and conducts active international scientific cooperation and exchange.

On 1 April, 2007, the State Council put into force the Regulations on the National Natural Science Fund.

The current NSFC president is Chen Yiyu.

Website: www.nsfc.gov.cn