When the latest list of highly-cited researchers in China, compiled in 2014, came out recently including 17 from Jilin University in the northeast, which, according to educators, is a result of the school's continued effort to improve itself.

The school’s scholars have distinguished themselves in the natural sciences and engineering, through a strong academic performance, which reflects how they contribute to making world-class university, according to the compiler of the list.

The 2014 Elsevier Rankings are based on Scopus, a Holland-based data-based of peer reviews, academic articles, and information on authors and their institutions, and Chinese scholars'international influence.

One other consideration in the school's research ability, in addition to its own efforts, is the government's support, and Jilin Daily has reported that the school got more than 1.2 billion yuan ($19.54 million) to support academic research, especially in new materials, petrochemical engineering, and chemistry, and began hiring top scholars worldwide in 2012.

Profile of China’s highly-cited researchers. [Photo/Jilin University]