17 Oct 2024
In its continued efforts towards expanding its academic collaboration in East Asia, the School of Science (SCI) at XJTLU welcomed a delegation from a leading South Korean research-intensive public university, DGIST headed by its President, Professor Kunwoo Lee. The visit was marked by a collegial and productive atmosphere, as both institutions engaged in discussions that culminated in the agreement to pursue the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in the near future.
The proposed MOU is set to formalize and deepen the partnership between the two universities, creating a framework for student and faculty mobility and exchange programs, joint research initiatives, co-authored publications, and collaborative grant proposal submissions. The agreement will also outline plans to foster a wider academic network that will provide comprehensive support for scholars from both institutions, enhancing opportunities for innovation and shared learning.
During the visit, the South Korean President, Professor Lee and his delegation met with Professor John Moraros, Dean and SCI key faculty members including Dr. Lifeng Ding, Dr. Lee Wei Lim and Dr. Shuihua Wang. Together, they explored common research interests in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), biology, materials science, environmental science, and emerging technologies. The discussions emphasized the importance of creating a vibrant, cross-border ecosystem, where both students and faculty can benefit from diverse academic experiences and access to advanced resources.
“This meeting marks an important milestone in our continued efforts to promote global collaboration in higher education,” Professor John Moraros, Dean of the School of Science stated. “Our universities (DGIST and XJTLU) share a commitment to research excellence and innovation, and this partnership will open new pathways for our students and faculty to engage with cutting-edge developments in science on a global scale.”
Professor Lee, President of the South Korean University, DGIST echoed these sentiments, highlighting the value of fostering international collaboration. “We believe that by working together, we can create a powerful synergy that will advance scientific discovery and enhance academic excellence in both countries. The proposed MoU will strengthen our ties and lay the foundation for a long-term and productive partnership.”
The proposed MOU is designed to support both short-term student exchanges and longer-term faculty sabbaticals, as well as joint research projects that span a variety of disciplines. Additionally, the universities plan to co-host conferences and seminars, further broadening the academic network and facilitating knowledge-sharing across borders. By working together on large-scale research grants and publishing in leading international journals, the two institutions aim to raise their profiles on the global stage.
The visit concluded with a tour of the research facilities at SCI, XJTLU, where the South Korean delegation had the opportunity to see firsthand the state-of-the-art labs and collaborative workspaces available to support joint research initiatives. Members from both institutions expressed excitement about the potential to collaborate on projects that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from AI to climate change and advances in materials science and bio technology.
Both universities have committed to signing an MOU in the near future so they may fully engage in activities that lead to their shared growth, research innovation, and academic excellence. The proposed agreement paves the way for meaningful cooperation, ensuring that students and faculty from both countries (China and South Korea) can engage in impactful research and build strong, international networks that will benefit generations to come.
Material and Review：Professor John Moraros, Dr Lifeng Ding
17 Oct 2024