Objective:To investigate the construction and operation of research wards in tertiary medical institutions in Guangzhou, and to put forward suggestions for promoting the construction of research wards.Methods:From May to June 2020, an online questionnaire was distributed to tertiary medical institutions in Guangzhou to investigate the construction of research wards, and the questionnaires were collected for statistical analysis.Results:A total of 58 medical institutions completed the questionnaire survey, and 33 of them obtained GCP qualification. Eighteen medical institutions had established research ward, of which 16 were in operation, with 6-226 beds. The research wards of 14 medical institutions were used for phase I clinical trials of innovative drugs and consistency evaluation of generic drugs; 17 medical institutions were equipped with full-time research teams; 17 medical institutions had two or more basic research platforms.Conclusions:The number of medical institutions that have established research wards in Guangzhou is small, the functional positioning is limited, and the allocation of full-time researchers is insufficient. The supporting and auxiliary conditions need to be strengthened. Promoting research wards still faces some challenges.