The mesoporous carbon layers protectedFe-Nnanocrystals (Fe-N-C-syn) was successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal approach and displays an improved oxygen bi-functional performance. The high specific surface area, mesoporous and graphitic carbon with more active sites ofFe-N(x)and Fe3C/Fe inFe-N-C(syn)favors good synergistic electrocatalytic effect toward oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions (ORR and OER) in alkaline medium. The bi-functional activity ofFe-N-C(syn)was clearly observed from the earlier onset potential of 0.86 V and limiting current density of 5.23 mA cm(-2)for ORR, as well as the low over potential of 470 mV with small Tafel slope value of 84 mV dec(-1)for OER. The enhanced stability and improved oxygen bifunctional activity ofFe-N-C(syn)catalyst was evidently demonstrated through an innovative synthesis approach for the development of earth-abundant metal catalysts for energy applications.