The Research Fund for International Scientists (RFIS), established by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), aims to provide research opportunities and support the career development of international scientists conducting basic research in mainland China. The program also seeks to enhance sustainable academic collaboration between Chinese and international scientists.
I. Program Description
1. Types of Grant
RFIS-I: Research Fund for International Young Scientists
RFIS-II: Research Fund for International Excellent Young Scientists
RFIS-III: Research Fund for International Senior Scientists
2. Funding Areas
Mathematical and Physical Sciences (A)
Chemical Sciences (B)
Life Sciences (C)
Earth Sciences (D)
Engineering and Material Sciences (E)
Information Sciences (F)
Management Sciences (G)
Health Sciences (H)
Interdisciplinary Sciences (T)
For interdisciplinary sciences (RFIS-II and RFIS-III only), select division codes T01-T04 and at least two application codes from A-H.
3. Funding Amount
RFIS-I: 200,000 RMB per year
RFIS-II: 400,000 RMB per year
RFIS-III: 800,000 RMB per year
4. Project Duration
One-year projects: January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025
Two-year projects: January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026
II. Eligibility
General Requirements
International scientists ready to work at Chinese host institutions registered with NSFC.
Host institutions must be based in mainland China.
Specific Requirements
RFIS-I
PhD obtained after January 1, 2018.
Experience in basic or postdoctoral research.
Commitment to work at least 9 months/year at the host institution.
Compliance with Chinese laws and NSFC regulations.
RFIS-II
PhD obtained after January 1, 2009.
Senior academic title.
Experience as Principal Investigator (PI) in basic research projects.
Commitment to work at least 9 months/year at the host institution.
Compliance with Chinese laws and NSFC regulations.
RFIS-III
Senior academic title.
Outstanding academic achievements and significant international influence.
Commitment to work at least 9 months/year at the host institution.
Compliance with Chinese laws and NSFC regulations.
III. Additional Requirements for Eligibility
Applicants can only receive each sub-type of RFIS once.
Applicants cannot apply for multiple RFIS sub-types or specific other NSFC programs in the same year.
PIs of ongoing RFIS grants cannot apply for new RFIS projects.
Specific restrictions on eligibility for applicants with prior RFIS-II or RFIS-III grants or other major NSFC grants.
IV. Submission Instructions
1. Submission by Applicants
Review the call guidelines and NSFC Guide to Programs 2024.
Submit proposals online via NSFC’s Internet-based Science Information System.
Proposal language: English, with Title, Abstract, and Keywords in both English and Chinese.
Prepare budget based on NSFC’s requirements and actual needs.
Submit application and required attachments online.
Attachments:
Agreement signed by the applicant and host institution (official seal required).
Employment contract with host institution.
Additional documents for research involving ethics or technological security issues.
2. Submission by Host Institution
Verify the authenticity, completeness, and compliance of application materials.
Submit proposals and necessary attachments via NSFC’s Internet-based Science Information System before the deadline.
Upload the annual Letter of Commitment for Research Integrity.
3. Deadline
Application system opens: February 3, 2024
Proposal submission window: March 1, 2024, to March 20, 2024, at 16:00 Beijing time
Contact Information
Phone: +86-10-62325793/8949/9034
Fax: +86-10-62327004
Email: fis@nsfc.gov.cn
Information System Technical Support: +86-10-62317474
Website: www.nsfc.gov.cn
