SINGAPORE AND DUNDEE CEMENT PARTNERSHIP IN SCIENCE

The University has cemented a partnership in life sciences with Singapore's Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) with the signing of a memorandum of understanding.

The signing of the agreement was welcomed by First Minister Jack McConnell who said, "This new partnership will be great for Dundee and for Scotland. It will initiate a flow of top quality postgraduates to this country, and ensure that we build on our leading position in the field of life sciences."

The signing ceremony was the highlight of a week-long visit to Singapore by a delegation from the University, led by Principal Sir Alan Langlands. Signing for Singapore was Philip Yeo, Head of A*STAR and Chair of Singapore's Economic Development Board.

The agreement, which will initiate a flow of top quality postgraduates from Singapore to Dundee, has been orchestrated by Professor Sir David Lane, who was appointed by Scotland's First Minister Jack McConnell as Fresh Talent Ambassador for Scotland. Sir David is currently operating as Executive Director for A*STAR's Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology on a two year sabbatical arrangement from the University.

Emphasizing the importance of tying partnerships with top-class universities as a long term strategy, A*Star chairman Philip Yeo said, "The University of Dundee has a respected reputation in biological and clinical laboratory sciences. By virtue of this partnership, we will be exposing our scholars and researchers to an environment with a rich tradition in biomedical sciences research. Such global research connections will sharpen our competitiveness in this very exciting world of science!"

Sir Alan said, "Life sciences is an international activity with international players and facilities. Scotland and Singapore have a similar drive for the highest quality and success as well as a shared history and long term friendship. We hope this partnership will be just the beginning of a mutually fruitful relationship with Singapore."

Sir Alan was joined on the visit to Singapore by Professor Pete Downes, Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, and Professor Mike Ferguson a leading figure in tropical disease research and member of the University's division of biological chemistry and molecular microbiology.

While in Singapore the delegation gave a public presentation on Life Sciences and Discovery in Dundee, delivered a number of science seminars, met with alumni and visited schools and biobusiness companies.