Supported by the Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration, CAGS, this research center started operating in April, 1998. It mainly covers the following research areas: mineral exploration, exploration of oil and gas as well as special energies, investigation and assessment of environmental ecological geochemistry, geothermal exploration, investigation and evaluation of geological hazards, development of standard geochemical materials, geoanalysis and testing technology, research and development of instrument and equipment, improvement of techniques and methods and their popularization and application. Owing to its good tracking records, this research center again received the national support in 2013.