China tackles 2 problems at once with birth subsidy for women in science

In an attempt to jointly address two major policy priorities for China – fostering a “birth-friendly society” and bolstering its scientific talent pool – Shanghai has introduced a subsidy programme to support female researchers returning to work after childbirth.

The Keyan Return Plan was launched last week by the Shanghai Women’s Association for Science and Technology to address career challenges faced by women in science – particularly those that arise while balancing the demands of motherhood with those of research roles – according to Jiefang Daily, a media outlet affiliated with the local government.

Shanghai’s branch of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) will be the first unit covered under the programme, with 20 new mothers each receiving a one-time research grant of 50,000 yuan (US$7,010).

To be considered, applicants must be under 40 years old, have given birth in the past two years, hold a doctoral degree and possess a professional title at the deputy senior level or higher.

Eligible candidates must also be engaged in “high-impact research” addressing frontier technologies, economic priorities, national demands or public health, with demonstrable achievements in the field.

Though the programme’s initial reach is limited, some female researchers said they see it as a significant step forward.