On 30 October, VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) formally received a distinguished delegation from Université de Nantes (France) to engage in strategic dialogue regarding collaborative training and research, with a view towards the formalisation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Université de Nantes is recognised as a premier French public institution and a prominent member of the European University Alliance (EUniWell). Distinguished by the academic excellence in biomedicine, life sciences, materials science, and environmental engineering, the university enrols in excess of 40,000 students—including more than 5,000 postgraduate researchers—and maintains a robust network of strategic partnerships with leading European research institutes and industrial enterprises.

The delegation was comprised of Prof. Laetitia Guevel, Prof. Laetitia Rolland, Prof. Violaine Grollier, and Prof. Jean-Luc Duvail—eminent experts in the fields of biomedicine, immunology, advanced materials, and international relations. Representing HCMUS were Assoc. Prof. Ngô Đại Nghiệp, Head of the Office of External Relations, and Dr. Bùi Thị Như Ngọc, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology, alongside senior representatives from the faculties of biology and materials science.

During the bilateral meeting, consensus was reached to prioritise collaboration within biotechnology, materials science, life sciences, environmental studies, and the application of Artificial Intelligence in biomedical research. Proposed avenues for cooperation encompass the development of co-tutelle (joint supervision) doctoral programmes; the facilitation of academic exchanges for students, researchers, and faculty; the establishment of dual degree curricula; and the joint organisation of summer schools, scientific workshops, and seminars at both institutions.

Furthermore, both parties pledged to foster the creation of joint research groups and to co-develop proposals for international funding within the framework of Viet Nam–France cooperation schemes or European Union initiatives, notably Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe.

In a significant gesture of support, Université de Nantes extended a proposal to receive one to two HCMUS students annually for six-month internships in France. These positions are to be supported by a fully funded scholarship and a monthly stipend of up to €1,000, with candidate selection adjudicated through the Campus France system and academic interviews.

Representatives from both sides engaging in in-depth discussions on cooperation opportunities.

Both institutions acknowledged the synergistic potential of this partnership, noting that the foundational research capabilities of HCMUS effectively complement the applied focus and European research ecosystem of Université de Nantes. The parties agreed to sustain regular communication, expedite the ratification of the Memorandum of Understanding, and schedule a bilateral scientific symposium to be convened at HCMUS in 2026.