Newcastle University strengthens partnership with Tsinghua University

Newcastle University was delighted to welcome a senior delegation from Tsinghua University in June to explore new opportunities for collaboration in research, education and global engagement. 

The delegation was led by Professor Guo Yong, Vice Chairman of the University Council at Tsinghua University, and was welcomed by Professor Li Li, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Global at Newcastle University. 

Recognised as one of China's leading research-intensive universities, Tsinghua University enjoys a global reputation for excellence. They excel not only in engineering, computer science and the applied sciences, but also in medicine, public policy, the humanities and the social sciences. 

Its breadth of academic excellence and commitment to interdisciplinary research have established it as one of the world's leading comprehensive universities. 

The two universities have enjoyed a productive relationship for many years. Tsinghua University is ranking among Newcastle University's leading research partners in China through extensive co-authored publications and academic collaboration. 

During the visit, the delegation toured Newcastle University's National Innovation Centre for Data and the Hatton Gallery. They also met colleagues from across the University's three Faculties. Discussions focused on strengthening existing links and identifying new opportunities for collaboration across research, education and academic exchange. 

A highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by Professor Li Li and Professor Guo Yong. The agreement builds on many years of successful academic cooperation and provides a framework for expanding collaboration through student and staff mobility, knowledge exchange and the development of future research initiatives. 

Professor Li Li, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Global at Newcastle University, said: 

"Our partnership with Tsinghua University has been built over many years through trusted collaboration, academic excellence and shared commitment to global engagement. This new agreement marks an important milestone, providing a platform to deepen our collaboration. It will also create new opportunities for our students and colleagues to work together in education, research and in addressing global challenges." 

Professor Guo Yong, Vice Chairman of the University Council at Tsinghua University, said: 

“The MOU acts as a shared strategic framework to advance joint research, early-career researcher mobility, youth academic exchange and collaborative talent development. With this agreement as our new foundational platform, we will draw fully on our complementary academic strengths to deliver tangible, high-impact collaborative outcomes between Tsinghua University and Newcastle University.” 

The agreement provides a framework for future collaborative activity, with new initiatives to be developed jointly by colleagues at both institutions. As Newcastle University continues to strengthen its global partnerships, the visit reflected a shared ambition to foster innovation, deepen people-to-people connections and deliver research and education with international impact.