As a comprehensive and large national scientific institution, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) comprises three major parts: a comprehensive research and development network, a traditional merit-based academic society and a system of higher education.
CAS has over 800 academicians called CAS Members and over 120 Foreign Members. Foreign Members are elected from all parts of the world, who have made important contributions to the cause of science and technology in China and who enjoy high academic standing internationally.