40年资助88万项！国家自然科学基金见证我国基础研究事业历史性跨越

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) in 1986 has significantly contributed to the development of basic research in China, leading to substantial funding and groundbreaking scientific achievements over the past 40 years [3][4][6]. Funding and Support - The NSFC has funded approximately 880,000 research projects with a total funding of 460.8 billion yuan, supporting around 4.8 million researchers [3]. - The budget for the NSFC has increased from 80 million yuan in 1986 to 39.5 billion yuan in 2025, establishing a comprehensive funding system that supports various stages of researcher development [8]. Scientific Achievements - Major original and leading scientific results have emerged, including breakthroughs in iron-based superconductors, quantum anomalous Hall effects, and nanoconfined catalysis [3]. - China has achieved the highest number of high-level international journal publications and international patent applications for five consecutive years, indicating a significant advancement in basic research [8]. Strategic Direction - The NSFC focuses on key scientific issues and aligns research investments with national development needs, emphasizing the importance of basic research for achieving high-level technological self-reliance and building a strong scientific nation [9][12]. - A new pilot program will be launched in 2025 to support groundbreaking and disruptive research, targeting areas such as new particle detection in nuclear transitions and synthetic artificial cells [11]. Talent Development - The NSFC is committed to nurturing young scientific talent by establishing dedicated funding tracks for research teams led by individuals under 40, thereby encouraging innovation and leadership among younger researchers [16]. - The foundation aims to enhance the support system for researchers, ensuring long-term stability and fostering an environment conducive to scientific exploration [16].