China’s S&T think tank transformation for building a world-class science and technology power: Trends and prospects

To address the strategic demands of establishing China as a world-class science and technology power, the transformation of its S&T think tanks has become an urgent priority. The unique knowledge products generated by these think tanks in supporting decision-making for national S&T advancement constitute a vital component of China’s independent knowledge system. Consequently, the transformation of S&T think tanks and the development of this domain’s independent knowledge system form a mutually reinforcing and coupling process. This study analyzes the imperatives and positioning of think tank transformation and independent knowledge system development through the renewal of intellectual foundations, the articulation of value propositions, the shift in research perspectives, and the transformation of research paradigms. It concludes with prospects for the future trajectory of China’s S&T think tanks.