International collaboration in food science: Jiangnan University Professor visits Massey

Professor Xiao Hua is the Associate Dean of the Food Science and Engineering Department at Jiangnan University in China. He recently paid a visit to Massey as part of a collaborative exchange programme.

Over the past couple of weeks, he has engaged with various faculty members and researchers, sharing insights and fostering connections within the food science community.

Professor Hua’s visit is supported by the Royal Society of New Zealand Te Apārangi under the China - Aotearoa New Zealand Scientist Exchange Programme. Following his time in Palmerston North, he travelled to Wellington and concluded his time in Auckland.

While on the Manawatū campus, Professor Hua delivered a talk on his research, which focuses on food chemistry, enzymology, biotechnology and the clean production of food ingredients. His work aims to enhance the physicochemical properties of food through innovative processing techniques, including hydrothermal processing and bioprocessing.

Massey University and Jiangnan University share a strong partnership in food technology education. The collaborative programme allows students to pursue a jointly-taught bachelor’s degree, beginning their studies in China with instruction from faculty from both institutions before completing their final year in Aotearoa New Zealand.

As an integral part of this partnership, Professor Hua plays a key role in organising the academic framework for the programme at Jiangnan University, contributing to the global exchange of knowledge and expertise in the field of food science.

His visit highlights the growing collaboration between New Zealand and China in scientific research and underscores the importance of international partnerships in advancing food technology education and innovation.