18.03.2026 China’s AI Priorities Reflected in Latest Science Funding Call

A recent funding call by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) highlights China’s growing focus on integrating artificial intelligence into scientific discovery. Chinese policymakers view AI as a key driver of future breakthroughs, with ambitions to lead a global paradigm shift in research and potentially advance toward artificial general intelligence (AGI).

Notably, many funded projects explore the use of generative AI in fields such as fusion energy and biomanufacturing, reflecting a broader, long-term strategy to embed AI across scientific disciplines. Despite relatively modest individual funding amounts, these initiatives are part of a systematic effort to strengthen China’s position at the forefront of AI-driven innovation.

Source: Science funding call provides insight into China’s AI priorities
Author: Rebecca Arcesati, MERICS