The Institute of Basic Science (IBS) invited British Ambassador Simon Smith to promote exchanges in basic science between the two countries on Friday.

IBS Director Noh Do-young and Ambassador Smith exchanged views on expanding cooperation with IBS and the British research institution, including the British Medical Research Council (MRC), on the occasion of the IBS’s establishment of Basic Virus Institute in July last year. 

IBS signed a memorandum of understanding with The Royal Society in November 2013 and has since been cooperating with it. The Royal Society, founded in 1660, is the natural science society with the longest history in Europe and had many historical scientists, such as Issac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Albert Einstein, as its members. 

IBS Director Noh Do-young (right) and British Ambassador Simon Smith discussed ways to promote exchanges in basic science between the two countries at the institute in Daejeon. (IBS)
IBS Director Noh Do-young (right) and British Ambassador Simon Smith discussed ways to promote exchanges in basic science between the two countries at the institute in Daejeon. (IBS)

“Cooperation between the two countries is essential regarding viruses and climate change amid the global pandemic,” Ambassador Smith said. “The embassy will play an active role in strengthening the network of basic science.”

Director Noh said, “Our institute will play a pivotal role in virus research cooperation and carry out world-class research on viruses. We expect active cooperation with the U.K. and other advanced countries.” 

There will be additional visits by the British ambassador to discuss detailed cooperation plans, an IBS official told Korea Biomedical Review on Monday. 
 

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