LONDON -- A delegation from the Southern University of Science and Technology of China (SUSTech) met with academics from a British university for a week-long visit to discuss collaborating on research projects into artificial intelligence, among others.

Senior academics from SUSTech, one of China's newest universities, also discussed extending an existing doctoral training program with the University of Birmingham.

Prof. Jon Frampton, director of the China Institute at Birmingham, is also the university's Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor (China) and professor of stem cell biology. He said: "SUSTech is an ambitious and forward-thinking institution that shares our pioneering attitude towards higher education and research. Our partnership is testament to the University of Birmingham's growing reputation in China - another exciting opportunity for our researchers to collaborate with peers from across the globe."

Up to 30 PhD students will be recruited each year and registered for a Birmingham degree, spending one year in Birmingham.

An agreement has already been signed between the two schools to develop the program.

SUSTech delegation leader Prof. Tang Tao said: "We aim to build SUSTech into a top-tier university that excels in research and innovation. The University of Birmingham is a world-class institution with a strong reputation in both aspects and collaboration between our universities will bring mutual benefits."

SUSTech is a new university founded by the Shenzhen municipal government and led by the Guangdong provincial government. In 2012, China's ministry of education approved the establishment of SUSTech as an innovative pilot for higher education reform in China.

SUSTech aims to build itself into an international university with advanced teaching and research capabilities in science and technology catering to market demands.