Shandong University and the United States' Rice University have jointly opened a carbon nanomaterials research center on Feb 1 to promote their collaborative study on nanotechnology.

Shandong University and the United States' Rice University have jointly opened a carbon nanomaterials research center on Feb 1. [Photo/cmse.sdu.edu.cn]

"We are excited and honored to cooperate with Shandong University on this important endeavor," said David Leebron, the president of Rice University said in a message recorded for the opening ceremony of the research center that was held at Shandong University.

"The joint center represents two important initiatives by Rice--research achievements in nanosciences and long-term partnership with Shandong University," he said.

Han Shenghao, the deputy president of the Shandong University, said that the two universities have enjoyed sound exchanges and cooperation in scientific research and talent training, especially in the field of carbon nanomaterials.

"The center also contributes to Rice's goal to build closer connections with China," said Pulickel M. Ajayan, a professor of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science Department of Rice University and one of world’s leading scientists in carbon nanomaterials.

By Wang Qian (China Daily Shandong Bureau)