This study uses a combination of theoretical analysis and empirical research to study the performance of science research institutions in China. It systematically analyzes the status and roles of Chinese scientific research institutions in the national science popularization mechanism，then summarizes the practices and explorations of scientific research conducted by various institutions of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in recent years by evaluating their science popularization mechanism，science popularization capacity，science popularization products and activities. The study further divides the institutions of the Chinese Academy of Sciences into four categories：basic research institution，high-tech research institution，biological research institution，and resource-based research institution. Performance evaluation of science services of the four types of institutions is carried out. 20 resource-based research institutions are selected for a detailed analysis of their science popularization practice. Based on the predominant “3E” evaluation theory，the study puts forward a theoretical framework of categorical evaluation of science service performance of Chinese scientific research institutions，with corresponding evaluation index system. The DEA method is applied to the measurement and evaluation of the comprehensive performance efficiency of the 20 institutions. Based on evaluation results，the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden of the Chinese Academy of Sciences was selected as a representative case for the performance evaluation of science service popularization via a mixed-method approach. The study summarizes the experience and shortcomings of the science popularization service of the institutions and puts forward relevant policy recommendations. Suggestions were given for the design and implementation of the categorical evaluation of science service performance of Chinese scientific research institutions.