Shanghai moves to support research and develop professionals in science and technology

Shanghai's natural science funds and young scientific and technological talent cultivation programs will support fundamental research and develop young professionals in science and technology next year, said Zhang Quan, director of the city’s science and technology commission.

They will encourage scientists to further develop artificial intelligence as well, he said at a forum of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai.

The local government will continue to strengthen fundamental research on AI technologies, enhance the construction of AI functional platforms, and encourage the “vitality” of innovative enterprises.

The natural science funds are mainly to finance the city's research in natural science and their applications while the "Sailing Plan" program encourages young researchers under 32 years old to innovate and explore.

Thirteen local universities and several research institutes have set up majors and courses in AI to cultivate professionals. 

Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Tongji University and other universities have established AI research institutes. Shanghai Jiao Tong University unveiled its Wu Wenjun AI Honored PhD Program yesterday.