Department of Biomedical and Environmental Biology at Kaohsiung Medical University Deepens Collaboration with University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB): Advancing Dual Master’s Degrees and International Talent Exchange

A delegation from the Department of Biomedical and Environmental Biology at Kaohsiung Medical University, led by Professor Sodio C.N. Hsu, Dean of the College of Life Sciences, visited the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) on February 4, 2026. The visit focused on administrative and academic exchanges and aimed to strengthen collaboration between KMU and UPLB in joint research initiatives and the development of a dual master’s degree program. This collaboration seeks to enhance student mobility, share research resources, and cultivate high-level talent in biomedical sciences, chemistry, and environmental biology, further solidifying the Taiwan–Philippines academic partnership.

UPLB is one of the Philippines’ leading research universities, located in Los Baños, with a strong academic focus on natural sciences, agriculture, biology, and chemistry. Its robust research capabilities and well-established graduate programs complement KMU’s research-oriented goals and high-level talent cultivation objectives.

During the visit, the KMU delegation met with UPLB’s Vice Chancellor, the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), and the Dean of the Graduate School (GS) to discuss governance of research universities, graduate education systems, international student exchange, and dual master’s programs, demonstrating strong mutual commitment to deepening cooperation. A lunch meeting at the GS provided an informal setting for further discussion.

The delegation also toured UPLB’s Institute of Chemistry, including the Nanotechnology Lab and other research facilities, gaining insights into the university’s strengths in nanotechnology, biochemistry, computational chemistry, and interdisciplinary research in agriculture, environmental science, and biomedical industries. UPLB’s Institute of Chemistry is recognized as a National Center of Excellence, equipped with advanced facilities and extensive research capacity.

An academic exchange and technical seminar followed, during which Dean Hsu introduced the overall development of KMU’s College of Life Sciences and the INTENSE Program (International Master’s Program for Talent Cultivation in Chemistry and Biomedical Industries), highlighting its international research and talent cultivation features. Professor Pei-Feng Liu, Chair of the Department of Biomedical and Environmental Biology, then presented the department’s profile, research focus, and potential collaboration areas.

UPLB signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the College of Life Sciences at Kaohsiung Medical University last year. In addition, Professor Yong-Chao Su of the Department of Biomedical and Environmental Biology has maintained a long-standing collaboration with Professor Gladys Cherisse J. Completo of the UPLB Institute of Chemistry. Professor Completo also serves as an adjunct visiting professor in the department, actively participating in joint research projects, co-supervision of graduate students, and the planning of dual-degree programs, thereby providing a strong foundation for sustained collaboration. Furthermore, the department has hosted several UPLB international scholars to share their teaching and research experiences, further deepening academic exchange.

The two universities reached consensus on student internships, joint research, dual master’s programs, and regular international seminars, developing actionable plans. The visit highlighted KMU’s expertise in biomedical sciences, therapeutic targets, and environmental biology, complementing UPLB’s strengths in nanotechnology, bioactive compounds, and sustainable technologies.

The dual master’s program, together with the TEEP and IIPP initiatives, will enable students to take courses across institutions, conduct joint research, and earn dual degrees, enhancing their global competitiveness. Integrated with the INTENSE Program and interdisciplinary collaboration in biomedical, therapeutic, and environmental research, the initiative aims to cultivate professionals with international perspectives and cross-border research capabilities. The visit yielded substantial outcomes, with both sides committed to continuing formal agreement signings, forming joint research teams, and implementing student exchange programs—establishing a strong bridge for Taiwan–Philippines scientific and educational collaboration and creating sustainable, long-term international academic and research opportunities.

Highlights of Collaboration

·Dual Master’s Degree Program: Establishing a structured collaboration platform to promote student mobility and joint research.

·Interdisciplinary Research Collaboration: Combining biomedical, therapeutic, and environmental research to advance high-impact joint projects.

·International Talent Development: Through TEEP, IIPP, and the INTENSE Program, cultivating biomedical and environmental professionals with global vision and cross-border research skills.