Most of the internationally recognized research by Chinese scientists is done outside China. In response, the Chinese government and universities pay indigenous researchers bonuses for getting their papers into international journals. Such bonuses, which can amount to thousands of dollars, have provided motivation. But they reflect an unbalanced focus on ends while neglecting the means: doing creative science. Moreover, impatience to secure research positions or to win such bonuses are partly responsible for problems in China with plagiarism and other misconduct.

China's graduate education system needs serious attention. Students in China and Chinese researchers who have teaching experience abroad criticize university and graduate education in China for its focus on textbook material and memorizing facts. As is well recognized in China, such a system cannot develop the creativity needed to achieve the international recognition in science that the universities and government seek. Many of the most promising students, who are also aware of the problem, go abroad for education or postdoctoral training — often never to come back.

A biological research institute in Shanghai (see page 683) is trying to solve this problem. Teachers at its first-year graduate-school courses ask students to look at the latest international research, and teach them to ask questions about it rather than merely memorize it. The courses provide not only the desire but also the tools to do creative science. The students are rising to the challenge.

Such courses could be established elsewhere in China, and not only in biological sciences. Finding researchers who are able and willing to teach the courses, which are taught in Chinese, will not be easy. The courses in Shanghai depend on Chinese researchers based at top research institutes or universities in the United States, or who have had years of training outside China. With a budget that only covers their expenses, the researchers are working for free. The number of Chinese researchers worldwide who could teach the courses is increasing, but the funds are currently not in place.

The Shanghai scheme might motivate other university professors in China to look at different teaching methods and try to improve their own. Government support for such initiatives is needed. Researchers chasing bonuses can stimulate some quick results, but revamping graduate education would be a better bet for China's future.