Why China should reassess how it rewards young scientists

Nature, Published online: 13 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02525-1Talent schemes helped to propel China to the forefront of global science. But the system places undue emphasis on prestigious titles as a means to secure career pr…

Nature, Published online: 13 August 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-02525-1

Talent schemes helped to propel China to the forefront of global science. But the system places undue emphasis on prestigious titles as a means to secure career prospects, putting pressure on young researchers.