Issues highlighting the need to transform the system of public administration of scientific, scientific, technical and innovative activities have been formulated. The provisions are given to form possible scenarios for improving the management system. It is shown, that the implementation of the target scenario of the «Russian Science and Technology Development Strategy» requires fundamental changes in the structure and functions of the executive branch, which manages scientific, scientific, technical and innovation activities. Such changes include the formation of a single state interagency center for the management of scientific, scientific, technical and innovation activities. Possible alternatives to the formation of such a center are presented, provided that the existing and new national research conglomerates in the priority areas of the country's scientific and technological development are maintained. The authority, the main tasks, functions and rights of the center are formulated, taking into account the national characteristics and experience of the organization of scientific and scientific and technical activities and the implementation of scientific achievements. The status, role and place of the RAS in the system of state management of research and development, the legal relations of the center with the subjects of scientific and scientific and technical activities are defined. It is proposed to enshrine the powers and functions of such a center legislatively, including in legal acts to ensure it.