Zhang Liqun Participates in Sino-European University Forum in Spain: Focus on Research Commercialization and International Collaboration
Zhang Liqun, president of Xi’an Jiaotong University (XJTU) and an academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, participated in the Forum of Chinese and European Technological Universities on December 2 in Spain. In his speech at the forum, he addressed the topic of research commercialization.
Notable Attendees and Discussions
The forum was attended by notable figures, including Huai Jinpeng, Minister of Education of China, and Juan Cruz Cigudosa, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Universities of Spain. Representatives from 25 universities across seven countries engaged in discussions regarding talent cultivation and the commercialization of scientific research within the engineering and technology sectors.
Initiatives at XJTU
During his address, Zhang highlighted initiatives at XJTU aimed at transitioning research into practical applications. He described the establishment of the Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbour, intended to create a new model for developing world-class universities in the 21st century. Zhang emphasized the importance of collaboration between industry and academia, promoting enterprise-led initiatives. He noted the formation of joint teams comprised of scientists and engineers to facilitate the entire continuum from research to pilot testing and application, integrating financial investments to expedite the commercialization of technological innovations.
Meeting with Complutense University of Madrid
Following the forum, Zhang met with María del Rosario, vice-rector of Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), who welcomed the delegation and acknowledged the long-standing collaboration between XJTU and UCM, which dates back to the early 1990s. An academic, scientific, and cultural cooperation agreement was signed, and discussions on enhancing international student exchanges and faculty research collaboration were initiated.
Visit to IMDEA Materials
On December 3, Zhang visited the Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies in Materials (IMDEA Materials). The institute’s director, Jose Manuel Torralba, along with scientific director Javier Llorca, welcomed Zhang and reviewed the history of collaboration between the two institutions. They expressed a strong interest in advancing further academic and research partnerships with XJTU. During this visit, a memorandum of understanding was signed to establish frameworks for academic exchanges and collaboration. Wang Deyi, head of the Novel Materials Division at IMDEA Materials, was conferred an honorary professorship by XJTU.
Engagement with the Chinese Ambassador
Zhang also met with Yao Jing, the Chinese Ambassador to Spain, who provided insights into China-Spain relations and acknowledged XJTU’s role in furthering international education and the integration of industry with education.
About Complutense University of Madrid and IMDEA Materials
Complutense University of Madrid, founded in 1499, is recognized as Spain’s oldest and largest university, with an enrollment of approximately 130,000 students and a history featuring seven Nobel laureates. IMDEA Materials operates as a public research center focused on advanced materials science, designated as a national center of excellence for innovative research.
Source: Xi’an Jiaotong University
