Characteristics and influencing factors of think tank talent development

The development of think tank talent has become a fundamental pillar for enhancing the quality of China’s new-style think tanks with Chinese characteristics. On the tenth anniversary of the establishment of China’s new-style think tanks with Chinese characteristics, this study conducts an empirical analysis of the growth patterns, basic characteristics, and influencing factors of think tank talent in China, based on data from 187 valid questionnaires collected by the Think Tank Talent Development Alliance. The study finds that think tank talent in China can be categorized into three types: the “capability accumulation” type, the “stable development” type, and the “senior high-output” type, with each type exhibiting distinct basic characteristics. Regarding the factors influencing their development, think tank talents across all categories share common characteristics centered on significant others, supported by social practice, and constrained by institutional mechanisms. However, they exhibit differences in terms of influencing factors such as social recognition, institutional resource support, and peer support. Based on these findings, the study offers recommendations for think tank talent development to support the building of high-quality think tank talent teams.