Collaborative research hub addresses global respiratory and cardiovascular health challenges

        WUHAN, May 16 – Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) inaugurated the Sino-German Cardio-Pulmonary Science Laboratory in a ceremony marking a significant stride in international medical research cooperation. The joint initiative is driven by Tongji Medical College of HUST, Goethe University Frankfurt, and the German Center for Lung Research (CPI). The inaugural ceremony was followed by a workshop about future strategic planning.

Strategic Opening Ceremony

        Mr. QIN Xuanbin, Vice Chairman of College Board of Tongji Medical College, emphasized the laboratory's mission: "Cardio-pulmonary diseases represent a global health challenge. This laboratory embodies our commitment to national health initiatives and our endeavor to build up a globally first-rate university via international and interdisciplinary cooperation." Mr. QIN stressed the facility's role in integrating Chinese medical expertise with global research resources.

International Endorsement
        Prof. Ingrid Fleming commended about HUST's visionary approach: "From our agreement in 2023 to the provincial-level accreditation as an International Sci-Tech Cooperation Base, our teams have demonstrated remarkable synergy." Prof. Thomas Braun added "This hub will leverage complementary strengths to attract top talents and generate transformative discoveries."

The laboratory plaque was jointly unveiled by Prof. Fleming, Prof. Braun, Mr. QIN and Prof. WANG Daowen.

Operational Roadmap
        Prof. HU Jiong, the Director of Histology and Embryology of School of Basic Medical Medicine, outlined the laboratory's agenda during the planning seminar:

· Research focus: Holistic innovation in the research of cardio-pulmonary diseases

· Integration mode: Bridging basic discoveries, clinical translation, and smart medical devices

· Strategic goals: To establish a world-class research base, a talent-training hub, and Sino-German academic exchange platform

Campus Engagement
        Prof. Fleming and Prof. Braun also paid a visit to Medical Analysis Center and Experimental Animal Center of HUST, and spoke highly of the infrastructure of the center. Besides, they hosted specialized undergraduate sessions, and Prof. Braun gave a lecture on the pathways of translational medicine.