Work Priorities for 2009/10

1. Promoting bilateral innovation (innovation policy collaboration, work with the Technology Strategy Board, UKTI, Knowledge Transfer Network missions and addressing barriers and opportunities to international innovation such as through the China Tomorrow programme).

2. Using science to improve resource use, especially relating to climate change, as well as health and food safety (including projects on climate/ energy research and use of science to influence policy and promote health, food security and collaboration to reduce infectious disease).

3. Identifying opportunities for excellent research in themes that can be supported by new funding opportunities (from UK/Chinese Government, EU, Research Council, commercial, University, charities - SIN contacts working with six UK 'focal point' experts, institutions, provincial Governments, EU and Technology Strategy Board).

4. Identifying and promoting what China can offer in science and technology (including mapping of capabilities, reporting, visits of SIN staff and from UK, providing information to partners), including:

• Key players 
• Sources/ size of R & D funds
• Key relevant policies and issues within China 
• Future aspirations for China in field and likely trends

5. Improving the framework for University-led research partnership (informing UK policy development and supporting a few universities in extending their collaboration into research)

Six research themes where SIN is focusing effort and support for focal points are:

• Climate change, energy and the environment
• Stem cell and regenerative medicine (including drug discovery, Traditional Chinese Medicine)
• Nanotechnology and materials
• Space science and technology
• Innovation policy