On 17 September 2026, the Ministry of Science and Technology (科学技术部) published the statute 《科研事业单位领导人员管理办法》 on its official website. source The measure was originally formulated on 13 January 2017 and subsequently revised on 22 July 2026. source It sets out the management framework for leadership members of natural science and technology research institutions directly under provincial-level and above governments and their departments. source
Who is affected
The rules directly affect leadership members and human resources departments of provincial-level and above government-affiliated natural science and technology research institutions, including internal agency heads subject to the measure’s selection and appointment provisions. source
What to do
Audit current leadership selection and appointment practices against the revised statute to ensure alignment with its political, professional, and integrity requirements.
Review internal agency head selection procedures to confirm they follow the measure’s provisions on selection and appointment.
Monitor the Ministry of Science and Technology website and related channels for any forthcoming implementing guidance.
Assess the implications for joint ventures, partnerships, or funding relationships with covered research institutions, as leadership criteria may influence institutional decision-making.
Key dates
13 January 2017: Original formulation of the measure source