The State Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Science and Technology was established based on China's most comprehensive heavy ion research base. It is dedicated to addressing national strategic needs and major scientific challenges at the forefront of heavy ion science and technology.

Relying on the Heavy Ion Research Facility in Lanzhou (HIRFL) and the High Intensity heavy-ion Accelerator Facility (HIAF), the laboratory is organized around four main research directions: nuclear properties and synthesis of new elements, properties of high-density nuclear matter, interdisciplinary research with heavy ions, and ion beam physics and technology.

The laboratory aims to achieve major breakthroughs in areas such as the synthesis of new elements, the phase structure of strongly interacting matter, and the structure and properties of exotic nuclei. Additionally, it is committed to deepening the integration of basic and applied research. By proposing new principles and developing innovative technologies and methodologies, it strives to meet critical national demands for ion beam technology.