Wang Haolan

Holly_cn@163.com

SHENZHEN’S comprehensive performance in education, science and technology, and talent development earned it the second place on the list of ideal cities for international talents to work and live in, according to a survey report released at the 16th Pujiang Innovation Forum 2023 that ends in Shanghai today.

Notably, Shenzhen ranked first in the talent development category, distinguishing itself as a prime destination for scientists under the age of 35.

The city also ranked second in the science and technology category after Singapore, and ninth in the education category.

The online survey was conducted of more than 800 scientists who reside in 20 innovation centers around the world, including Singapore, Shenzhen, Boston, Shanghai, New York, Beijing, San Francisco, London, Tokyo, Berlin, Paris, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Seoul, Seattle, Tel Aviv, Toronto, Sydney, Mumbai and Moscow.

In addition to Shenzhen, three other Chinese cities made the list: Shanghai (4th), Beijing (6th) and Hong Kong (13th).

The report revealed that Singapore was perceived by the scientists surveyed as the most ideal city for international talents to work and live in. The 20 cities were also ranked individually based on their capabilities in education, science and technology, and talent development.

Wang Xueying, deputy researcher at the Innovation Policy Research Office of the Shanghai Institute for Science of Science, pointed out that according to the survey, emerging technology cities such as Singapore and Shenzhen are seen as more attractive destinations than traditional tech hubs such as New York, London, Tokyo, and San Francisco. This observation is consistent with the current shift in the global landscape of technology innovation cities.

She highlighted that scientists, especially those under the age of 35, are inclined to settle in cities that can offer them an ideal salary, an affordable cost of living, and an international, diverse and inclusive living environment.

The survey, now in its seventh edition, was conducted by Springer Nature and commissioned by the Shanghai Institute for Science of Science.