International collaboration is at the heart of so much great research. A combination of different research backgrounds and cultural approaches brings unique perspectives which drive research forward.

And no organisation is more aware of this than the European Commission. Their European Network of Research and Innovation Centres and Hubs focuses on the free exchange of knowledge, experts and ideas. We spoke to their China office to find out how they are promoting the flow of ideas between Europe and China.

With a similar interest in China is Professor Steve Tsang, Director of the SOAS China Institute (SCI). The SCI is a world-leading centre for China expertise and is home to the largest community of Chinese Studies scholars in Europe.

We are delighted to be able to feature researchers from both Europe and China in this issue, reflecting the links between these two areas. As you would expect, these researchers work across diverse areas from air pollution control to electric vehicle performance and their efforts cover topics such as astronomy, health, technology, economics and education.

Start reading and discover just some of the fascinating research that is being produced every day, all around the world.