Taiwan-France Synergy, Global Vision: NCKU and UGA Launch Flagship Collaboration in Smart Medicine and Health Sciences
Written & Image credit to NCKU Office of Internation Affairs.
To deepen cooperation in higher education and cutting-edge scientific research between Taiwan and France, President Meng-Ru Shen of National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) led a high-level delegation to Grenoble, France's premier research hub, for an in-depth academic dialogue with Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA). This visit initiated a series of substantive exchanges, establishing an academic ecosystem that spans foundational research, talent cultivation, and knowledge circulation. Through this transnational partnership, both universities aim to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to advance human health and global well-being.
Professor Alain Buisson (left 1), Deputy Director of the Grenoble Institute of Neuroscience, introduces the equipment and laboratories to President Meng-Ru Shen (center) and Vice President Shyy-Woei Chang (right 1).
On-Site Visits to Landmark Institutions: Deepening Integrated Health Exchange
The NCKU delegation conducted site visits to two most iconic medical research institutions in Grenoble, engaging in first-line technical inspections and dialogues with international scientists. At the Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences (GIN), the delegation was welcomed by Deputy Director Professor Alain Buisson. Discussions focused on neurological disease research and advanced medical imaging technologies, including a tour of state-of-the-art laboratory facilities to explore future collaborations in diagnostic imaging. Subsequently, the delegation visited the Centre de Recherche en Santé Intégrée (CRESI), hosted by Dr. Samuel Vergès, Director of the HP2 Laboratory. CRESI currently focuses on chronic disease management, geriatric health technology, and smart medical robotics. Both parties explored how innovative technological interventions can enhance clinical care efficiency to address the severe challenges of an aging global society.
Dr. Samuel Vergès (left), Director of the HP2 Laboratory, introduces the planning and environment of the Integrative Health Research Center to President Meng-Ru Shen.
Executive Meeting: A Strategic Commitment to Long-Term Partnership
During the executive meeting between the two university leaderships, both institutions anchored their strategic direction, positioning Joint Master’s and Doctoral Degree Programs as the core engine driving long-term research and educational synergy. By implementing a co-supervision model for students, the universities aim to deepen research links and build a sustainable academic ecosystem. Moving forward, the collaboration will adopt a strategic "top-down" model. NCKU will take the lead by introducing the International Research Partner Program, injecting dedicated funding to support joint degrees, dual-appointment faculty, and substantive exchange mechanisms. This framework is designed to realize a robust and enduring scientific partnership.
Professor Yassine Lakhnech (left), rector of Grenoble Alpes University, and President Meng-Ru Shen exchange gifts and pose for a photo.
Smart Medicine Workshop: Forging AI-Driven Health Insights
The afternoon featured the "NCKU-UGA Smart Medicine Workshop," where research teams presented breakthroughs in three key areas: Smart Medicine, Smart Sports, and Bioelectronics. Propelled by the global AI wave, both universities are actively catalyzing the fusion of innovative technology with clinical practice. Through the development of cutting-edge bioelectronics, they are providing powerful technological solutions for the complexities of aging societies, demonstrating their collective strength in leading international medical trends.
The NCKU-UGA Smart Healthcare Workshop facilitated interactive exchanges between researchers and physicians from both sides on smart healthcare topics.
Building a Resilient and Innovative Global Research Network
President Meng-Ru Shen remarked that Grenoble’s innovation ecosystem aligns perfectly with NCKU’s vision. "Through this visit, NCKU has successfully brought Taiwan’s smart medicine expertise to the European stage. Building upon our existing partnership with UGA, we have laid a solid foundation for future talent exchange and transnational innovation." This flagship collaboration is expected to create a multiplier effect, addressing complex scientific issues with a global perspective and strengthening Taiwan’s influence in international academia, medicine, and technology. Led by NCKU President Meng-Ru Shen, the NCKU delegation includes Dist. Prof. Shyy Woei Chang, Executive Vice President ； Prof. Rwei-Ling Yu, Vice President for Sustainability；Prof. Peng-Chan Lin, Vice Superintendent of NCKU Hospital ；Assoc. Prof. Yi-Shan Tsai, Director of Center for Clinical Innovation and Research, NCKUH； Assoc. Prof. Kai-Lan Hsu, Physician, Division of Sports Medicine, NCKUH；Ms. Hsing Fen (Cindy) Su, Chief Executive Officer, Office of International Affairs；Ms. Tzu-Yi (Zoey) Huang, President ’ s Secretary and Ms. Jen-Kai (Amy) Chen, Manager, International Relations Division, Office of International Affairs.
A delegation from National Cheng Kung University, led by President Meng-Ru Shen, visited the campus of Grenoble Alpes University.
Provider:
NCKU News Center
Date:
2026-04-18
