An aerial view of the Wanggezhuang campus of the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. [Photo/Han Xing]

Qingdao, Shandong province, is stepping up efforts to translate scientific research into commercial applications through closer collaboration between universities and businesses, policy reforms, and support for emerging industries.

Home to 16 national key laboratories, the city has established 29 proof-of-concept platforms covering fields such as integrated circuits, marine equipment, biomedicine, and terahertz technology.

Its marine technology marketplace has connected more than 540 universities and research institutions nationwide with over 3,100 researchers, helping bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and industrial applications.

Qingdao also has more than 2,600 technology transfer professionals. This year, 38 specialists were assigned to 30 universities and research institutions, identifying 90 promising research outcomes, facilitating 22 industry-research partnerships, and helping establish 14 companies.

The efforts are yielding tangible results. Researchers at the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, have developed technology that uses microalgae to produce natural ingredients for skincare products, bringing laboratory research into commercial production.

Meanwhile, underwater imaging technology developed at Ocean University of China has found applications in offshore wind power, ecological restoration, and aquaculture.

Qingdao is also expanding access to funding and real-world testing opportunities to help more research breakthroughs reach the market.