Chinese researchers could be using magnets made in Oxford, thanks to a new collaboration.

Oxford Instruments Superconductivity, based in Tubney Woods, near Abingdon, will oversee sales and distribution for US company Quantum Design's products in China from this month. A service and installation agreement is expected to follow in January.

The two companies are making instruments to measure materials used for anything from ultra-small sensors and power sources for space travel, to materials for the semiconductor industry.

Jim Hutchins, sales director at Oxford Instruments said: "Quantum Design has made a significant number of sales in China over the past year as their turnkey products are well suited to the needs of Chinese research scientists.

"They are looking to build on this initial success using our established market position. In addition to the financial rewards, the initial, two-year sales agreement cements the working relationship between the two companies even further."

Oxford Instruments Superconductivity has offices in Beijing and Shanghai and an established distribution network in China.