Objective To investigate the current status of clinical and research developments in Lanzhou University in China, to provide reference data for establishing a coordinated, multi-sectional, research orientated and internationally competitive program in biomedical sciences. Methods Three types of questionnaire containing 57 items were designed for 8 secondary departments in clinical and basic sciences. Another type of questionnaire was distributed to 200 clinicians, researchers, lecturers, and administrators in both clinical and basic sciences from August to September 2005. We searched SCI, CSCD, CSTPCD, CBM and CNKI for research articles published by Lanzhou University, commercial development of research derived from the University, and general and competitiveness evaluations of the University. In addition, seminars, site visits, and expert interviews were also conducted.Results The response rates for the questionnaires were 100% and 91% respectively. The investigation included the identification and evaluation of research and clinical departments, human resources in the three branches of biomedical sciences (clinical, research and education), including academic title, educational background, age distribution, research area and funding (leading investigators included), and publication records. The numbers of undergraduate and graduate students and their CET-4 score (pass rate) were also analyzed. Based on the information obtained, six secondary databases were established and evaluated..Conclusions The merger of Lanzhou University and Lanzhou Medical College has created an opportunity for further development in biomedical research and clinical science. Facing new challenges and difficulties, we should take this responsibility to work together to make the University a national and international center of clinical, research and education in medical sciences.