Abstract: Since the construction of HI-13 tandem accelerator, the applied nuclear physics research has been one of its main research and development directions. With the establishment of equipments and facilities, the applied nuclear physics research has been developed extensively over the past 30 years. Meanwhile, a batch of excellent research results has been achieved. The present status of the applied nuclear physics research at HI-13 tandem accelerator on radiation resistant strengthening of aerospace electronic devices and components, radiation biological effect, nuclear pore membrane and anti-counterfeiting mark, accelerator mass spectrometry and on-line and off-line nuclear effects was described. The applied nuclear physics research with innovation, cutting edge and practicality in future was prospected relying on the HI-13 tandem accelerator-superconducting linear accelerator complex and multi-particle and variable energy cyclotron, which are under construction expected to come into operation by the end of 2021.