The University of Lincoln has signed an exciting new partnership with one of the world’s largest banks, Santander.

A balloon launch to celebrate the university's partnership with SantanderThe deal will bring a wealth of international scholarships and research opportunities to both students and staff.

Under the new agreement, the university will join the Santander Universities network of over 1,040 higher education institutes around the world. The bank will provide funding for numerous activities including scholarships, travel grants and internship placements.

Professor Mary Stuart, Vice Chancellor at the University of Lincoln, said:

“This is a great moment for the university. We are delighted to confirm our partnership with Santander Universities, as we share the same commitment to developing future leaders across the globe.”

“The partnership brings with it valuable integration opportunities for our students and academics, who can look forward to developing world-leading research with fellow Santander partners.”

The Santander Universities network funds awards for outstanding students and projects, helps entrepreneurs with new business ideas and gives students the opportunity to travel abroad while continuing their studies.The University of Lincoln's Vice Chancellor, Professor Mary Stuart with the Deputy Director of Santander Universities UK, Simon Bray at the signing

Simon Bray, Deputy Director of Santander Universities UK, said:

“We are delighted to welcome the University of Lincoln to the Santander Universities Global Division. The partnership will allow the university community to achieve new milestones and increase its contacts with international counterparts.”

The awards will be open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students at the University of Lincoln from October 2013. It will also be open to staff undertaking research projects either in the UK or in countries which are part of the Santander network.