The National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) has launched the Distinguished Young Scholars Program (Overseas) since 2021, which aims to attract and encourage outstanding young overseas scholars (including non-Chinese talents) who have made remarkable achievements in natural science, engineering technology, and related fields, to return to China. This initiative empowers scholars to independently select research directions, conduct innovative research, and promote the rapid growth of young talents, thereby making significant contributions to the global science community.

In this regard, the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) cordially invites outstanding young scientists from around the world to consider joining XIEG. By choosing us, you will benefit from a conducive scientific research environment and a highly competitive benefits package. The specific requirements for applicants are outlined below.

I. Distinguished Young Scholars Program (Overseas) 

1.NSFC Funding

(1) Funding Amount: RMB 1 million to 3 million;

(2) Funding Period: Three years;

2. Benefits Package

(1) Salary: In addition to the funding provided by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, XIEG offers a competitive start-p funding and salary, which is subject to negotiation.

(2) Successful applicants will be directly appointed as professors.

(3) Applicants have the autonomy to recruit four to six members. Basic equipment and workspace will be provided.

(4) Education of children: Applicants will have access to high-quality education for their children, including attendance at reputable kindergartens, primary schools, and middle schools in the Xinshi District, Urumqi.

(5) Assistance will be provided to help their spouse to find a job in Urumqi.

(6) Housing: A designated house will be provided by XIEG.

(7) Others: Assistance in applying for high-level talent programs funded by CAS, the Xinjiang government, and the country.

II. Eligibility Requirements

1. Applicants should:

(1) Comply with the laws and regulations of the People's Republic of China;

(2) No more than 40 years old;

(3) Hold a doctoral degree;

(4) Conduct research in the natural sciences and engineering technology;

(5) Hold formal teaching or scientific research positions in overseas universities, scientific research institutions or corporate R&D institutions, with at least of 36 consecutive months of work experience. Exceptions may be considered for individuals who have achieved outstanding results.

(6) Must have scientific or technological achievements recognized by peers, showing potential to become academic leaders or exceptional talents.

(7) Must resign from the overseas institution or have no overseas employment after being notified of the grant of the funding and return (come) to work full-time in China for at least three years.

2. Restrictions

(1) Applicants may only apply for or participate in one talent program and are not eligible to apply for lower tiers programs.

(2) Recipients of the Distinguished Young Scholars program in the current year are ineligible to apply for the Distinguished Young Scholars Program (Overseas) again.

3. Application Guidelines

Please refer to the official website of the National Natural Science Foundation of China for more information.

III. Research Fields 

1. Disciplines

Arid land Ecology, Arid land Geography

2. Specific fields

Hydrology and water resources in arid regions, oasis ecology and agriculture, conservation of biodiversity in arid regions, mineral resources and big data in Central Asia, remote sensing and GIS, and regional planning and sustainable development.

IV. Contact 

LIU Xiang (Human Resources Department of XIEG)

Tel.: +86-991-7885319, +86-13201256897

E-mail: liuxiang@ms.xjb.ac.cn