Singapore: BGI, the world's largest genomics organization, and Griffith University in Australia have signed an agreement to conduct collaborations in teaching, training, research and other activities. Professor Allan Cripps, pro vice chancellor (Health) at Griffith University, Lin Fang, vice president of BGI, Ye Yin, assistant president of BGI, and others attended the signing ceremony.

The partnership between BGI and Griffith University will be mutually advantageous to both institutions to better improve education and innovative research. Under the agreement, the two sides will increase opportunities for visiting staff and postgraduate students and encourage the comprehensive exchange of collaborative research, scientific experience and other activities.

As one of the world's largest genomics organisations, BGI has developed an integrative structure of research innovation, platform development and industrial application for promoting the advancement of innovative biology research, molecular breeding, healthcare and related fields. Griffith's strategic research places it on track to be a world leader in the fields of drug discovery and infectious disease, health, water science, and other areas. The agreement brought together the unique strengths of two organizations and will undoubtedly facilitate rapid and accurate development of scientific research.

Lin Fang, vice president of BGI, said, "We are pleased to form this partnership with Griffith University. To further strengthen the relationship, I think we should greatly promote our academic and professional resources and exchanges between BGI and Griffith University in the near future. Based on the joint strengths of two organizations, I believe we could make more scientific breakthroughs in human health, drug discovery and infectious disease as well as other innovative research fields."

Professor Allan Cripps, vice chancellor of Griffith University, said, "Griffith University is honored to be partnering with BGI and is privileged to have had a close and productive association with the BGI for several years in genome research and DNA sequencing. Griffith has built up an international reputation as the home of leading researchers and is proud to be expanding our relations with BGI. I look forward to the development of a close relationship with BGI as we explore the genetic basis of disease susceptibility and seek innovative intervention strategies in this challenging domain, to benefit communities both nationally and internationally".