In a landmark move for international academic collaboration, the University of Nottingham and its Chinese counterpart, the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), have announced the joint establishment of a Division of Life and Health Sciences. This strategic initiative was unveiled during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s official visit to China, signaling strengthened Sino-British relations through educational partnership.
The new division will serve as an advanced transnational platform integrating education, research, and innovation in life and health sciences. By combining the University of Nottingham’s globally recognized expertise with UNNC’s China-focused regional development approach, the collaboration aims to address pressing global health challenges through cutting-edge solutions and leadership development.
Through innovative joint academic appointments, collaborative teaching methodologies, and shared research programs, the division will create an internationally benchmarked academic team. It will establish a comprehensive talent pipeline spanning from undergraduate to doctoral levels, facilitating global talent mobility via cross-campus exchanges, clinical placements, and advanced research training opportunities.
UNNC Provost Jon Garibaldi emphasized the institution’s evolution, stating: ‘Over two decades, UNNC has educated tens of thousands of internationally-minded professionals while expanding cooperation in scientific innovation and industry engagement. This initiative marks our transformation from educational pioneer to multi-sector innovation powerhouse, contributing sustained momentum to closer Sino-British relations.’
The establishment represents a significant milestone in UNNC’s 20-year history as a pioneering force in Sino-British educational cooperation, potentially creating new paradigms for international academic partnerships in addressing global health challenges.