Compared with ODP, IODP will have more drilling platforms and broader scientific areas that are of significant interests to our society. The new project, which will start later in 2003, will give Chinese Earth science community a unique opportunity in strengthening the existing links with the international community, training of young Chinese Earth scientists as well as the integration of national research projects with IODP and other related international deep sea research programs. Considering the  IODP science initiatives and the existing expertise of the Chinese Earth science community,  it is proposed that the research priorities for the Chinese involvement in IODP will include following areas: (1) Deep biosphere and sub-seafloor ocean; (2) Paleoenvironment research; and (3) Lithosphere dynamics and seismogenic zones in the west Pacific margin. It is also hoped that there will be a much improved coordination among Chinese government agencies for different deep sea research national programs and as a result of this, more active involvement of Chinese Earth scientists in IODP and other international programs.