MD Anderson honored with top science and technology award in China

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center was presented the People's Republic of China International Science and Technology Cooperation Award at a ceremony held Jan. 9 at Beijing's Great Hall of the People.

The event, attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Keqiang, and Vice Premier Liu Yandong, recognized MD Anderson's many international ties to sister institutions in China with which it shares collaborative programs in training, education and patient care. The award is granted through the Chinese State Council to foreign scientists, science and technology engineers and managers, or organizations that have "made important contributions to China's bilateral or multilateral scientific and technological cooperation."

Oliver Bogler, Ph.D., senior vice president for academic affairs accepted the award on behalf of MD Anderson. Ta-Jen Liu, Ph.D., project director of global academic programs, also attended the ceremony.

"Cancer is a significant challenge worldwide," said Bogler. "Every country has a unique spectrum of cancers, influenced by factors such as population and environment, and collaborating to study these cancers is critical to making progress. China in particular offers tremendous opportunities for saving lives through joint cancer research with top scientists and the government's commitment to fighting cancer."

Bogler added that collaborations with Chinese partners have been productive in areas such as cancer screening, liver and lung cancer treatment, and cooperation in clinical trials and basic research studies.

"It is increasingly important to share information and create ties that help all nations in our collective fight against cancer," said Ron DePinho, M.D., president of MD Anderson. "Receiving this coveted award from China is an honor for our institution and one that speaks to our commitment to collaboration, here at home and across the globe."