[Source: Dale Quinn, Arizona Daily Star] – Representatives from the Japanese bioscience industry and Osaka University have gathered at the University of Arizona today to discuss a relationship that could have a widespread impact on biotechnology development in Tucson.
In the coming months, the two universities will sign an international memorandum of agreement that will allow for the exchange of faculty, students and research in the area of biotechnology.
Biotechnology uses DNA or other components of cell structure to manufacture substances or produce new devices.
Osaka has been a leader in the development of biotechnology and the UA and the Tucson-area has much to gain by fostering relationships with the univeristy and industry there, officials said.
Kiyoji Hanasaki, a professor at Osaka Univeristy, said the UA was selected because of the growing biotechnology industry here, and the strong collaboration between industry, the university and the government.