Yesterday, May 3, 2024, Dr. Elnor C. Roa, accompanied by delegates from MSU at Naawan including Prof. Renoir Abrea, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension; Prof. Arleen Uy, Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development; Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director for International Affairs and Linkages; Dr. Anabelle Dece Espadero, Secretary for the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension; and faculty researchers Dr. Fernand Fagutao and Ms. Sherley Ann Inocente, convened with representatives from the Institute of Chemistry (IoC) at Academia Sinica in Taiwan, led by Dr. David Tai-Wei Wu. The aim was to explore potential research collaborations, focusing primarily on joint research endeavors.

While IoC is renowned for its groundbreaking research in biomacromolecules, batteries, liquid solar panels, and vaccines, the MSUN team emphasized their expertise in fisheries, marine science, and ongoing chemistry research on nanocatalysts.

Despite differing research focuses, the discussions were productive and led to plans for future collaborations, including projects on fish disease vaccines, marine resource biochemistry, nanotechnology applications, and proteomics research.

Both institutions agreed to develop proposals for submission to the MECO-TECO program, fostering collaboration among project leaders. The meeting concluded with initiatives such as faculty exchanges, PhD student opportunities, internships, and research assistant positions.

During the visit, the MSUN team toured Academia Sinica’s laboratories, gaining valuable insights into its infrastructure, and engaging in productive discussions on infrastructure development at the National Biotechnology Research Park (NBRP).

Hence, the visit marked significant progress in fostering university collaborations and strengthening international partnerships.