On Tuesday 29 June 2010, an event was held to mark the joint signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute and SCH Center for Biopharmaceutical Research and Human Resources Development at Soon Chun Hyang (SCH) University in Korea.

Signed by the Bio21 Institute Director, Professor Tony Bacic and Chief Executive Director of SCH Centre for Biopharmaceutical Research and Human Resources Development, Professor Sang-Ki Rhee, the agreement aims to promote and enhance cooperation for the mutual interest of both Centres.

Chief Executive Director of SCH Centre for Biopharmaceutical Research and Human Resources Development, Dr Sang Ki Rhee and Bio21 Institute Director, Professor Tony Bacic signing the MOU

Relations between the two centres have progressively developed over the past 12 months during reciprocal visits by centre directors.  "During my visit to Korea earlier this year, I had the opportunity to meet a number of students and faculty staff and see first-hand the high calibre of the centre's research and training programs and facilities," explained Professor Bacic.

Students from SCH University have visited the Bio21 Institute over the past eight months.  Led by Professor Rhee and fellow senior faculty members, these excursions allowed students to discover the breadth of the research, expertise and technologies available at Bio21.

A non-binding agreement, the MoU sets out areas of mutual interest including promoting and enhancing academic research exchanges, student and faculty exchanges, and mutual cooperation between the two Centres.

(L to R) Bio21 Institute Director Professor Tony Bacic and Dr Sang Ki Rhee with Head, Department of Biochemistry Professor Paul Gleeson and Head, School of Chemistry Professor Frances Separovic , The University of Melbourne (based at Bio21 Institute) and Institute General Manager Dr Veronica Borrett at the MOU signing ceremony.

"Korea is emerging as a major international player in the biotechnology sector" says Professor Bacic.  "We look forward to working together to develop more practical benefits and programs for our students, staff and the biotechnology sector overall".