RMIT and Norman Foster Foundation sign global partnership

RMIT and Norman Foster Foundation sign global partnership

RMIT University has signed a partnership agreement with the Norman Foster Foundation in Madrid to expand collaboration in education and research with a focus on sustainable cities.

The Norman Foster Foundation (NFF) is internationally recognised for its leadership in sustainable cities development, led by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Lord Norman Foster, whose works include the Reichstag in Berlin, Apple Park in California and The Gherkin in London.

Under the new agreement, both institutions will explore opportunities for joint research and academic projects including lifelong learning collaboration.

RMIT and NFF have several initiatives underway including participation by NFF’s Head of Research and Education in RMIT’s prestigious creative practice-based PhD program in Europe as well as student collaboration opportunities in sustainable cities through RMIT Vietnam.

The agreement was signed in Madrid by David González, Secretary General at NFF, and Professor Tim Marshall, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Design and Social Context and Vice-President, at RMIT University.

09 October 2025

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L-R: Professor Tim Marshall, RMIT University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Design and Social Context and Vice-President; Peggy O'Neal AO, RMIT Chancellor; Lord Norman Foster; Professor Marta Fernandez Bertos, RMIT Europe's Executive Director and Professor Laurene Vaughan, RMIT Europe's Research Director.

Professor Tim Marshall said RMIT’s collaboration with NFF brings together data science, urban design and planning with cities and industry.

“This is critical to ensure a climate positive future in the urbanisation age,” he said.

“RMIT and the NFF have a shared interest and commitment to interdisciplinary practice, and to the value of a holistic education that encourages experimentation through research and projects,” Marshall said.

"Through this agreement, the NFF and its Institute and RMIT reaffirm their commitment to achieving the highest standards of excellence in both research and professional practice," David González said. 

RMIT leaders at the signing included RMIT Chancellor Peggy O’Neal AO along with RMIT Europe’s Executive Director Marta Fernandez and Research Director Professor Laurene Vaughan. 

 

Story: Karen Matthews

David González, Secretary General at NFF, and Professor Tim Marshall, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Design and Social Context and Vice-President, at RMIT University.
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09 October 2025

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  • RMIT Vietnam
  • Education
  • Research
  • Urban Design
  • Sustainability
  • RMIT Europe
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