Indian biotech alliance to tackle global issues
The University has launched a 10-year strategic partnership with India’s first biotechnology university.
The relationship with Gujarat Biotechnology University (GBU) will strengthen biotechnology research across the institutions, with a focus on using entrepreneurship to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
University leaders marked the Collaboration Agreement launch in Gujarat – a state on India’s west coast – with a cross-cultural celebration involving singing, poetry recitals and a Burns-style supper.
Celebratory toast
Guests toasted the collaboration with drinks from a quaich – a traditional Scottish drinking cup that symbolises friendship – and sampled vegan haggis and cranachan, before trying ceilidh and Gujarati dancing known as dandiya and garba.
As part of the partnership, Edinburgh academics have designed a bespoke curriculum for GBU’s first Master’s in Biotechnology programme, which focuses on using tech solutions to tackle urgent global issues, including climate change, cancer therapy, anti-microbial resistance and crop resilience.
Research placements
Edinburgh staff will also deliver training and facilitate research collaborations between the institutions, offering academics a unique insight into India’s growing science and tech landscape.
Twelve GBU students will be hosted in Edinburgh to conduct three-month research placements as part of their postgraduate study.
Biotechnology is at the forefront for solutions to overcoming some of humanity’s biggest crises and an international, collaborative approach will be essential to advancing the field. This partnership is an exciting opportunity will enable students and staff from India and from Scotland to widen their professional networks across different cultures.”
Related links
College of Science and Engineering
More about the GBU partnership
[Image credit: Gujarat Biotechnology University]