CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY: Scientists test a nerve-repair device on a hemiplegic patient in Tianjin People's Hospital, on June 14, 2014. The device was developed with funding from several government-sponsored science and technology programs (LI XIANG)

"Professional agencies at different levels, of various types, and with multiple functions should be set up according to the characteristics of science and technology programs," Lu said. She stressed that these agencies should not be only staffed with managerial personnel, but also with trained professionals such as scientists, engineers and business experts.

Another highlight of this reform is the establishment of a dynamic evaluation and adjustment system.

"Now much effective progress evaluation is required. If it is found that a project cannot reach the expected goal, it can be adjusted or even terminated," Lu said.

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New Management Categories

According to the State Councils' reform plan on research funding, China will establish a new management system of government-sponsored R&D programs, sorting them into five major categories.

The Natural Science Fund will support basic and cutting-edge research, talent development and team building so as to boost China's creativity.

The National Major Science and Technology Program will center on developing products of strategic importance and applying major research results in production processes.

The National Key R&D Project will focus on important research schemes in such areas as agriculture, energy, resources, environment and health, as well as strategic, basic and far-sighted research that will enhance domestic industries' core competence and creativity, and safeguard national security.

The Special Fund for Technology Innovation is intended to guide and support corporate technological innovation activities and to promote the transfer, capitalization, commercialization of research results.

The R&D Base and Professional Special Program is designed to improve infrastructure for science and technology development, facilitate the sharing of research resources, and support innovative individuals and teams.

The five distinct and complementary categories will be managed under an open and unified platform. Coordination and evaluation mechanisms will also be set up.

(Compiled by Beijing Review)