In 1928, the National Government of the Republic of China officially established Academia Sinica as the highest academic research institute of the nation. From a difficult founding, and then because of the chaos of war, institutes of Academia Sinica endured much separation and misery. After victory was declared, the institutes were in the midst of gradual recovery when they were further moved to Taiwan. Thereafter, in 1954, Academia Sinica found its home in Nangang, overcoming all hardships and continuing to prosper.

The year 2014 marks the 60th year anniversary of the re-establishment of Academia Sinica in Taiwan. The website Pursuing Excellence: A History of Academia Sinica, through the five perspectives of establishment, Nangang, former presidents of Academia Sinica, convocation, memorable stories, and important events, presents the historical procession of Academia Sinica from its early days of struggle to its present pursuit of excellence.