Candidates presented essays on meteorological studies in front of China's top academicians in this area. This is one of the 30 individuals competing for chief researcher positions in the Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences. Ninety percent of them are postdoctoral researchers coming back from abroad.

Xiao Feng, associate professor from Tokyo Institute of Technology, said: "Now China has more and more input in scientific research, both the working and living environment has improved a lot. Though I studied and worked abroad, I always hoped that I could have an opportunity to cooperate with domestic colleagues and contribute more to the country's development. That will give me a greater sense of fulfillment."

This is the first time for the academy to advertise for chief researchers globally. They have openings for chief researchers in 28 different research areas.

Zhang Renhe, president of Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences, said: "We want to recruit people who have achieved international academic levels. It is not an easy task, but the candidates are all excellent. Now many people who have worked abroad want to come back. I think for the development of a research institute and a country, talented people are the key."

The term of employment is three years. Once employed, chief researchers will have an initial budget of 500, 000 yuan to kick off a new national research project.

(CCTV.com January 30, 2003)