2015-12-04

On November 16, 2015, Suping Peng, the first PhD student jointly supervised by SUMC and University of Groningen faculty, was awarded the PhD degree in Neurosciences after her successful completion of thesis defense. Peng was admitted into the joint PhD program in 2011 to participate in neurosciences research. Under the joint supervision of Prof. Melitta Schachner from SUMC and Prof. H.W.G.M. Boddeke from UG, Peng published four SCI papers during her PhD period.

Founded in 1614, UG is one of the world’s top 100 universities and enjoys a high international reputation. SUMC and UG have pursued the 2+2 PhD program since 2011. The joint program allows candidates who complete the initial two-year research program at SUMC to continue their research in UG for another two years. During their study at SUMC, the students are awarded scholarship sponsored by Li Ka Shing Foundation, whereas the Dutch government provides scholarship to support their study in the Netherlands. Supervisors from both universities provide research funding. Upon successful completion of thesis defense, the students will be conferred a PhD degree by UG. To date, there are ten PhD students admitted into this program. Besides, four Master’s students are undertaking a one-month’s training in Groningen to prepare for admission into the joint program. With deepening exchange and collaboration between the two universities, SUMC students will have more opportunities to further their study abroad.