Global research leader China: What editors and publishers need to know

Author: Ritu Dhand

Chief Scientific Officer

Chinese research outputs have been steadily on the rise, and a shift from quantity to quality is apparent. Springer Nature’s first Global Research Pulse report takes a look at the evidence of improvement in China’s research quality, and the strategy that makes this possible. It offers essential insights to editors on the Chinese research landscape, so they can effectively engage with China and have the tools to make informed decisions. Here’s a look into what you can expect to find in the report. 

The Global Research Pulse reports are a new series of reports that Springer Nature has begun publishing in order to support our community of editors. Editors play a key role in championing and exercising inclusive practices to ensure that published research and those involved in the publication process – authors, reviewers, editorial board members, and others – reflect and represent all communities.

To kick off the Global Research Pulse series, the first, recently published report explores China’s rise as a global leader in research. It provides editors and anyone interested   with insights and tools to make informed decisions in a rapidly changing and diverse research landscape.

We believe that this comprehensive overview of developments in Chinese research over the last two decades is essential for journal editors, who regularly need to take strategic decision on research. Understanding the landscape of Chinese research output and strategy can support editors in their work and ensure that they and their journal can benefit from the best research China offers . 

China: The largest contributor to global research output

We have all witnessed the rapid rise of China to becoming a global leader in research over the past decade. Not only the volume of work coming from China, but also a marked improvement in the quality of this research.

This intentional process is driven by a comprehensive and strategic Chinese approach. It includes investment in state-of-the-art facilities, providing world-class overseas training for Chinese students, and actively recruiting global talent to their universities.

China has fostered international collaboration and innovation through engagement in emerging areas of research with real-life application. Research quality has increased thanks to consolidated efforts that manage research integrity. In the report, we present an overview of these issues and their relevance for editors.

Springer Nature’s first Global Research Pulse report: Focus on China

What can you expect to find in the report? 

• Evidence for China’s research growth in output, as well as indicators of the quality of this research. 
  • Growth in volume of research from China is accompanied also by an increase in the quality and impact of the research.
• The strategy behind China’s accomplishments, derived from its commitment to become a world leader in science.
  • Growing investments in research and development (R&D).
  • Policy reforms relating to research integrity. Shifting the focus from quantity and impact factor of papers to quality and real-world impact of scientific achievements.
  • Collaboration with and training in well-established leading scientific research centres worldwide. China seeks to attract Chinese researchers from abroad to return and contribute to its development.   
  • Long-term vision with an emphasis on technological innovation, evident in the innovative nature of Chinese research.
• Engaging with China: How editors can identify world-leading institutions and high-impact researchers from the region. 
  • Top university rankings 
  • C9 alliance of elite universities in China
  • World-leading researchers 

My co-authors and I hope that you will read the report and that it will support your work as an editor. 

Check out the first Springer Nature Global Research Pulse report on China and learn more about this rising leader in global research.