A DELEGATION from the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) met with academics from a British university for a weeklong visit to discuss collaborating on artificial intelligence research projects, among others.

Senior academics from SUSTech, one of China’s newest universities, also discussed extending an existing doctoral training program with the University of Birmingham.

Prof. Jon Frampton, director of the China Institute at Birmingham, is also a professor of stem cell biology. He said: “SUSTech is an ambitious and forward-thinking institution that shares our pioneering attitude towards higher education and research. Our partnership is testament to the University of Birmingham’s growing reputation in China — another exciting opportunity for our researchers to collaborate with peers from across the globe.”

Up to 30 Ph.D. students will be recruited each year and registered for a Birmingham degree, which entails studying for one year in Birmingham.

An agreement has already been signed between the two schools to develop the program.

SUSTech delegation leader Prof. Tang Tao said: “We aim to build SUSTech into a top-tier university that excels in research and innovation. The University of Birmingham is a world-class institution with a strong reputation in both aspects. Collaboration between our universities will be mutually beneficial.”

SUSTech is a new university founded by the Shenzhen Municipal Government.

The university aims to build itself into an international university by catering to market demands for advanced educational and research capabilities in science and technology.

(Xinhua)