Government resolution no. 2895 was passed in 2000, regarding the integration of a forum for chief scientists. The resolution defines the committee's structure and functions, as a supreme committee, and as a coordinator for all government and civilian R&D projects.

Government discussions about creating a chief scientists forum started in 1985, following the recommendations of the Iftah committee. The committee examined the status of chief scientists within government offices and the scientists working relationship with the Ministry of Science and Technology.

The government R&D system is decentralized – each ministry is responsible for its own R&D. The Chief Scientists Forum, under the Ministry of Science & Technology, coordinates between the various ministries in order to avoid inefficiency and double work. The minister of Science and Technology is the chairman of the Chief Scientists Forum, and the chairman of the Ministers Committee for Science and Technology.  Israel's Prime Minister, Mr. Ariel Sharon, is the current minister of Science and Technology. 

The Chief Scientists Forum status is defined by law – the National Council for Research and Civil Development (MOLMOP) law. The MOLMOP is an advisor to the government in the formation the policy towards three Research and Civil Development systems:

Academic research, Industrial R&D and government R&D.

The forum is the authorized advisor to the MOLMOP andto the government in matters of policy formation and of Prioritizing the R&D which is implemented in government offices by the Chief Scientists Forum members.