It is with the greatest of pleasure that I write this address for our new Research Academy of Bioactive Molecules and Materials (RABMM). This collaboration between Chinese and UK institutions of research and higher education is the culmination of a tireless effort on the part of several key individuals, not least Prof Zhao, who has been the driving force, translator and international interface for this most important venture. That we have reached the stage of agreement and launch in a relatively short space of time is testament to his commitment, foresight and drive. In addition to the internationally acclaimed scientists and university departments which comprise the founding members of this new academy, we very are fortunate to have the enthusiastic participation of our Honorary Chairmen, Prof. Bonfield (University of Cambridge) and Prof.Zhuo (Wuhan University). Their interest adds great weight to our proposed collaborative efforts, and their experience, insight and advice will be invaluable as this exciting venture unfolds.

The aim of the RABMM can be summed up by the first element of our mission statement “Promote the UK-China collaboration in science and technology and encourage the free exchanges of ideas and information within the Academy for scientific advancement”. As scientists, we all recognize, however jealously we might wish to guard our research, that there is great benefit to be gained from sharing ideas and techniques with our scientific fellows. To do this with partners of significance from the international arena, further enhances this benefit. The objective of this academy is to stimulate and support collaborative research in the field of bioactive materials and molecules. Achieving this objective is aided by the vast experience in this field, which already exists within this partnership. However, we will all need to nurture these international relationships and hopefully expand on the number of participating institutions. This expansion will come with success, and the will to share experience and knowledge. My own institution, The University of Strathclyde, has always recognized the importance of international collaboration. The Bioengineering Unit, of which I am now part, through its past and present departmental heads, always extended a welcoming hand to international collaboration. Indeed, one of our former heads, Professor Jim Courtney, a founder member of this RABMM, held international collaboration to be a key element in the development and success of the department during his period of tenure. Our department, university, students and collaborators always benefit from this untethered international approach.

It has been said that every journey begins with just one step; the launch of this RABMM is, in my view, not just a small step on our journey to achievement through collaboration, but a great stride forward. With a shared will and commitment, we can collectively achieve great things. I look forward to working with all members of our RABMM.

                                                                                             PROFESSOR Terry Gourlay  

                                                                                              Chairman of UK/China-RABMM