Coastal research centre for China and New Zealand

The University of Waikato has signed an agreement with the Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, to establish a coastal biotechnology research centre. The statement of intent was signed in China during a visit from a business and education delegation from the university’s Tauranga campus.

With bases in both Tauranga and China, the China-New Zealand Coastal Biotechnology Joint Research Centre would aim to integrate China and New Zealand’s coastal biotechnology research experts. It would also aim to align more effectively administration sections, investors, industry and international businesses in China and New Zealand.

The relationship between the University of Waikato and the Yantai Institute of Ocean Resources began in 2010 during the Tenth International Marine Biotechnology Symposium in Qin Dao, China, convened by Professor Song Qin. Discussions were initiated about collaborations in marine biotechnology between China and New Zealand and those ideas were developed further at the 11th International Marine Biotechnology Symposium in Brisbane last year.

The new centre’s research fields will focus on biomedicinal and agrichemical discovery and development, aquaculture, and environmental bioremediation and restoration. It will establish a collaborative research network including government, industry, science and research and it is anticipated it will contribute to the growth and development of the coastal biotechnology industry, aquaculture industry and marine product processing industry in both cities.

The fledgling development between the two countries is being headed by Professor Song and Waikato Chair in Coastal Science Professor Chris Battershill.

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