Purpose

In order to improve the competitiveness of the “double first-class” university in China, it is essential to conduct a rational, scientific study of the current status of the staff to ensure its long-term development.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the grey analytic hierarchy process (Grey–AHP), this paper evaluates the situation of faculty and staff, hereby, analyzes the initiative and enthusiasm of faculty and staff in the construction of “double first-class universities”

Findings

The index weights of the main factors are similar, which indicate the development of teaching staff in higher education depends mainly on the role of full-time teachers, doctors and master's guidance teachers and non-teaching staff.

Originality/value

While the other literature emphasized scientific output, this article enlightened the important role of faculty and staff in the construction of ‘first-class' universities, which contributes to the study of development of China's high education in a new perspective.