RMIT University and Hong Kong PolyU launch FutureLab

RMIT University and Hong Kong PolyU launch FutureLab

The University has partnered with the PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research (PAIR), to launch a collaborative research centre with a future-focused vision.

This week RMIT University in partnership with The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has launched a new Collaborative Research Centre, FutureLab, to accelerate interdisciplinary research. The new centre symbolises both institutions’ joint vision for a sustainable future.

The collaborative research program will have an initial focus on research areas of shared strength between the two institutions, including artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), engineering and geospatial innovations.

However, these areas of focus are envisioned to be broadened in the future, to encompass other areas such as health and wellbeing and advanced technologies.

24 September 2024

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Group photo of RMIT and Hong Kong PolyU representatives FutureLab will accelerate interdisciplinary research.

Professor Ian Burnett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor STEM and Vice President RMIT University said the establishment of FutureLab is an exciting milestone in the partnership between RMIT and HKPolyU. 

“We are delighted to be working with HKPolyU on this exciting initiative and leveraging our respected research strengths to deliver projects that will have real impact in Hong Kong, Australia and around the world,” Professor Burnett said. 

“FutureLab will create an unparalleled opportunity to enable scientific advancement using our strengths in Computer Science, Engineering and geospatial innovations to create technology solutions for sustainability.” 

“RMIT has had a presence in Hong Kong for over two decades now, and we have partnered with a number of local organisations during that time. We’re excited to be continuing to build on our footprint here with an esteemed institution like HKPolyU.” 

The launch ceremony was held on 12 September 2024 at PolyU, marking the new chapter of research collaboration and the interflow between Hong Kong and Melbourne. 

“FutureLab is a platform where PAIR and RMIT scholars can leverage their complementary research strengths, including expertise, resources and networks, to co-design and conduct projects and activities,” said Professor Christopher Chao, Vice President (Research and Innovation) at PolyU. 

“These initiatives not only advance the research and development of both universities but also promote sustainable development in their respective regions.” 

“At the Lab, in addition to conducting joint projects, the two universities will also collaborate on several fronts: providing exchange opportunities for academic and research staff, preparing applications for joint research grants, and organising activities such as international conferences.” 

"Together, these efforts will help address societal challenges, contribute to intellectual property, and foster international exchange."

Man giving speech at lectern FutureLab will see the universities collaborate on several fronts.

Three projects announced for initial progression 

While many projects are in scope for FutureLab, the universities announced that three projects will be initially progressed as part of the partnership.  

The Smart City Lens: Geospatial technologies and digital twins for action on urban sustainability aims to create a new approach and technology for capturing, analysing, and visualising dynamic information and actionable insights about the impacts of smart city precincts. 

Advanced Grid Support Services from Smart Buildings and Building Microgrids will involve experiments on load flexibility, building data analytics, and developing machine learning models to identify load flexibility in smart buildings and build microgrids to provide grid support services. 

Finally, AI-based Drone Assistant for Automated Coastline Rescue and Cleanup aims to establish an integrated system for sustainable coastline safety and environmentally friendly waste management by aligning with human safety and global sustainability targets. 

The establishment of FutureLab is the first of the many actions identified in future collaborations among the two universities.

 

Story: Finn Devlin

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24 September 2024

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