【Purpose/significance】 Science and technology think tanks are a powerful force behind the advancement of science and

technology. Understanding the status and trends of researches on these think tanks is crucial to deepen the understanding of their op⁃erational environment and their ability to support strategic decisions in science and technology.【

Method/process】 This paper analyzes the researches on science and technology think tanks using the method of literature survey. The theoretical underpinnings, research methodologies, data information security, knowledge and intelligence services, communication power and influence, experience refer⁃ence, and construction exploration of science and technology think tanks are all thoroughly examined in this paper. This paper also summarizes the current domestic research status and offers suggestions and prospects for future studies on science and technology think tanks.【Result/conclusion】 It is advised to further explore think tank methodologies, place emphasis on the creation of data infor⁃mation resources, increase the service capacity of science and technology think tanks, enhance their system for evaluating their perfor⁃mance, and encourage the application of theoretical research findings.【Innovation/limitation】 This paper systematically combs the context and current situation of the research on science and technology think tanks in China and will follow up the tracking and discus⁃sion of the research on science and technology think tanks globally in the future.