"The research of seismology-related engineering mechanics is a thorny scientific issue worldwide. We will select an outstanding leader from international applicants to guide China to the forefront of world seismological research," said Song Ruixiang, director of the China Seismological Bureau.

The move was also an experiment to select leading officials in a more scientific and democratic way, he added.

The bureau has set up a special group to take charge of the applications and an expert panel consisting of five academicians and three foreign scholars. Advertisements for the vacancy have been published in China Daily, the Science and Technology Daily and on the Internet.

Eight applicants have come to Harbin, where the research institute is based, for a competitive oration. Two have indicated that they are willing to give up their foreign nationality if they are offered the job.

Wang Zifa, a Chinese-American who is president of the Bizwise Technologies Co. in the United States, said, "It is natural that I should come back to China to serve my home country after completing my studies in the US."

Staff of the China Seismological Bureau support the open recruitment direction. A retiree said, "Selection of the new director with a new system will not only reflect our will, but also promote the development of the institute."

Ye Fengji, a personnel official of Heilongjiang Province, said recruitment of professionals worldwide was a good way to absorb talent from all parts of the world and widen the channel for selection of employees.

Song Ruixiang said, "The practice should be an international trend. We will continue to explore ways of keeping China's personnel system abreast of world practice."

(Xinhua News Agency May 12, 2003)