Abstract:This perspective first introduces the current status of photosynthesis research in China and in the world, followed by a brief discussion of the major progress of photosynthesis synthetic biology. Then we demonstrate the major weakness of current photosynthesis synthetic biology research in China, which includes fragmented research topics, lack of strong link to its end application and shortage of research funding, etc. Photosynthesis research will play a crucial role for the future global food security, energy security, and maintenance of a sustainable ecosystem and environment. The future photosynthesis synthetic biology research can focus on optimization of existing photosynthetic systems, coordination of photosystem with the metabolisms consuming photosynthate, reconstruction of existing efficient photosynthetic systems, construction of novel photosynthetic systems, and creation of hybrid systems by combining photosynthetic systems and novel bio-material. To effectively promote photosynthesis systems biology research, we propose to establish a series of technical platforms and theories and corresponding policies.