The College of Horticulture & Forestry Sciences (CHFS) at Huazhong Agricultural University (HZAU) cordially invites outstanding young scholars worldwide to apply for the 2025 National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) Excellent Young Scientist Fund (Overseas). We welcome visionary talents to grow with us and contribute to cutting-edge research in agricultural sciences.
About CHFS
Established in 2002 through the merger of the former Departments of Horticulture and Forestry, CHFS traces its roots to 1902 (Forestry) and 1940 (Horticulture). For over a century, we have been at the forefront of talent cultivation and scientific innovation, serving national agricultural development.
Our Strengths
- Top-Tier Disciplines:
- #1 Nationally in Horticulture (A+ in 4th National Discipline Assessment)
- Key disciplines in Landscape Architecture and Forestry (recognized by the National Forestry Administration)
- Double First-Class discipline (Horticulture)
- Research Platforms:
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops
- 18 provincial/ministerial-level research and education platforms
- Academic Structure:
- 7 departments (e.g., Pomology, Vegetable Science, Landscape Architecture, Tea Science)
- 6 undergraduate programs (all provincial/national “First-Class” specialties)
We aim to build a world-class research college with globally competitive disciplines while nurturing innovative talents with international perspectives.
Program Overview
The NSFC Excellent Young Scientist Fund (Overseas) supports exceptional young scholars in:
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering & Technology
to conduct independent research in China, fostering future academic leaders.
Funding & Duration
- Grant amount: 1–3 million RMB
- Duration: 3 years
Eligibility Criteria
- Basic Requirements:
- Ph.D. degree
- Born on/after January 1, 1985
- Minimum 36 months of overseas research experience post-Ph.D. (by April 15, 2025). Exceptional candidates with overseas Ph.D.s may qualify with shorter experience.
- Current position at a renowned overseas university/research institution.
- Additional Conditions:
- Must not hold full-time positions in China before January 1, 2024.
- Awardees must resign from overseas posts and work full-time at HZAU for ≥3 years.
Note: Applicants may only hold one national-level talent program at a time.
Why Choose HZAU?
We offer comprehensive support tailored to your needs:
- Competitive start-up funding and salary package
- Customized research space and team-building support
- Priority in graduate student recruitment
- On-campus housing and family benefits (healthcare, children’s education)
Application Process
- Submit: your CV + research statement as a single PDF.
Please title your file as: “2025 OYSE Application – [Your Name]” - Deadline: April 15, 2025
NSFC system opens March 3 – early contact is recommended for personalized guidance. - For more information. Click here
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