NEW YORK (GenomeWeb News) – Chinese genome sequencing firm BGI announced today that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Washington State University to collaborate on basic and applied agricultural research.
According to BGI, the partners will work together to establish and conduct programs and activities in agricultural research, technology, and information transfer, as well as economic development.
"This MOU establishes the beginning of a long-term strategic partnership between WSU and BGI in numerous areas of common interest that will lead to the two institutions jointly addressing global food security issues," Asif Chaudhry, WSU vice president for international programs, said in a statement.
"By working with each other, BGI and WSU will certainly improve human health, agricultural economics, and accelerate the new agriculture industry development," Yonghong Mei, chairman and CEO of BGI's agriculture group, added.
Specific terms of the arrangement were not disclosed.