China Eases PhD Thesis Rule for Defence Tech, Scientist Detained in DNA Dispute

China's top defence university is changing how it awards PhDs. To solve critical engineering problems, it will now allow doctoral students in certain programs to graduate with a product or design instead of a traditional thesis. The move aims to accelerate innovation amid international technology competition. In a separate case, a leading Chinese scientist has been detained. The researcher, known for work in ancient human DNA, is under investigation for violating border control laws. The detention is reportedly linked to the unauthorized transfer of genetic material out of China. These developments highlight two facets of China's science landscape: a push to rapidly advance strategic technology and strict enforcement of rules governing scientific materials.