The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), founded in November of 1949, is China's national academy for natural sciences. Headquartered in Beijing, it functions as the national scientific think tank, providing advisory and appraisal services on issues ranging from the national economy and social development to scientific and technological progress. The CAS has over 100 institutes, including the Institute of Physics, Institute of Theoretical Physics, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, and the Institute of Policy and Management. Currently, it has 723 Chinese academicians and 64 foreign academicians. The average age of its 51 newly chosen academicians is 52.6 years old, marking the youngest group ever.

The Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE) is China's national academy for engineering. It was established in 1994, with the mission of initiating strategic studies and providing consultancy services for decision makers on the nation's key issues in engineering and technological sciences. Currently, it has 774 Chinese academicians and 41 foreign academicians. Of its 54 newest members, 38 are under 60 years old and the youngest is 46.