The University of Nottingham has signed a collaboration agreement with the China Guanghua Science and Technology Foundation, based in Beijing.

The Memorandum of Understanding confirms the desire of both organisations to work together to promote the development and commercial exploitation of science and technology.

The broad-ranging agreement covers technology transfer, as well as helping spin-outs from The University of Nottingham to develop business opportunities in China.

The Guanghua Foundation is a top 10 not-for-profit organisation in China, set up to promote excellence in science and technology, encourage innovation and promote regional economic development.

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding follows a visit by University staff to the Foundation earlier this year.

Professor Chris Rudd, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Business Engagement and Knowledge Transfer at The University of Nottingham, said: "Having enjoyed an excellent relationship with the Foundation through our healthcare outreach work, we are delighted to broaden the collaboration into the science and innovation sectors.

"With China developing its innovation infrastructure rapidly, and the demand for new technologies accelerating, we believe that this new venture will yield considerable bilateral benefits - both economic and social."

Mr Liang Fandong, Vice-General Secretary of the China Guanghua Foundation, said: "The Foundation is looking forward to working with The University of Nottingham and is pleased to be strengthening its relationships in the science and innovation sectors in the UK."

The collaboration is the latest high-profile joint venture undertaken by The University of Nottingham in China.

The University has developed extensive links and research collaborations with universities and other institutions in China over the last seven years, leveraging its unique position as China's first Sino-foreign university.

Strategic alliances with elite Chinese partners include clean energy, green manufacturing, biomaterials, geomechanics and low-carbon vehicles. Innovative international partnerships include work with Chinese car-maker Chang An, aerospace giant AVIC, New Hope Group and the Ningbo Municipal Government.

The University of Nottingham Ningbo, China (UNNC) is a unique international university in China. It was the first Sino-foreign university to open its doors in China in 2004, and now has more than 5,000 students. All degree programmes are taught in English and students receive a British-style education and UK degrees from The University of Nottingham.

The collaboration between The University of Nottingham and the China Guanghua Foundation was facilitated by Tucker & Partners Ltd, a UK-based international business consultancy that represents the Foundation in Europe for all matters relating to technology transfer and technology commercialisation.

Tucker & Partners also brokered a collaboration agreement with the UK's Science & Technology Facilities Council, which was announced during the UK-China Summit in June this year.