Understanding China’s Science & Technology Ambitions

China’s rapid ascent as a global science and technology (S&T) superpower has elevated S&T to a core priority for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), prominently underscored during the recent 20th Party Congress. The creation of the new CCP Central Science and Technology Commission also signals a significant reshaping of China’s research governance, as Beijing intensifies its efforts to streamline ministries, boost funding, and optimize the operations of national labs and research facilities. But what exactly is China’s S&T vision, and how are these ambitious plans translating into concrete policy shifts, resource allocation, and international competition?

Join IGCC senior fellow Jimmy Goodrich for an in-depth training session that will unpack China’s evolving science and technology policy landscape. Designed specifically for government analysts, think tank experts, graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and corporate professionals, this session provides a comprehensive exploration of how China organizes, funds, and prioritizes S&T. Participants will gain critical insights into historical foundations of Chinese science policy, its modern strategic ambitions, governance structures, funding mechanisms, and China’s expansive network of national labs and research centers. This seminar will also provide an understanding of the role of Chinese private-sector innovation, along with focused case studies on several critical and emerging technologies and their development in China including semiconductors, among others.

Training Modules

• Evolution of Chinese S&T Policy
• Funding Structures for Chinese S&T
• China’s National Laboratories and Research Facilities
• Private Sector R&D Innovation
• Case Study: Semiconductors
• Case Study: Fusion Energy

Course Fees

• $2,500 – Government and private sector applicants
• $1,000 – Full-time students (proof of enrollment required)
• Group Discount – 10% off for groups of three or more participants

What’s Included: Daily breakfast and lunch
What’s Not Included: Lodging and other travel expenses

For questions, or to apply, please email Marie Thiveos Stewart at mthiveos@ucsd.edu.

Application deadline: March 30, 2026