This study explores the research culture in public universities in Shanxi, China, aiming to identify challenges and opportunities for enhancing research management. It focuses on governance, support systems, values, and engagement within these institutions. Using a qualitative approach, the research involved interviews with faculty and staff from three Shanxi universities, with thematic analysis guiding data interpretation. Findings reveal significant variations in governance structures, resource allocation, and faculty involvement in shaping research agendas. Some departments have strong leadership and adequate resources, while others face bureaucratic hurdles, limited funding, and a lack of interdepartmental collaboration. The study emphasizes the roles of leadership, support systems, and collaborative engagement in building a robust research culture. It recommends establishing more transparent and inclusive governance, improving administrative support, and encouraging interdisciplinary collaborations to strengthen research culture in these universities.

Keywords: research culture, public universities, Shanxi China, governance, support systems, interdisciplinary collaboration, faculty engagement, leadership, administrative support