‘Up or out’: death of bright young scientists highlights China’s ruthless academic system

While none of their institutions has issued any official statement about the deaths, the cases have once again prompted criticism of China’s flawed talent system, which is characterised by cutthroat competition that can push young academics to the limits.

Issues within China’s academic system include an “up or out” tenure race, dwindling chances to get funding and a crushing workload.

Guo Yingjian, professor of English at Renmin University of China in Beijing, said “such a high number of cases involving the untimely deaths of young scholars” was not evident in other countries.

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‘Made in China 2025’: how has the nation changed 10 years after setting its manufacturing blueprint?

‘Made in China 2025’: how has the nation changed 10 years after setting its manufacturing blueprint?