The South China University of Technology (SCUT), University of Hong Kong (HKU) and IBM on Thursday set up a research center in Guangzhou to further develop RFID technology in China.
Based in SCUT"s School of Computer Science and Engineering, the laboratory aims to provide an environment to conduct research on e-business technology, including RFID. Research results are also expected to work with local businesses for commercialization to benefit IT development in China, stated IBM.
?We have maintained a close relationship with IBM since 1995,? said Professor Li Yuanyuan, President of SCUT. "The new research center furthers our years of collaboration.?
Under the partnership, SCUT, ETI and IBM will contribute technology and resources toward the center. Through integration, the center aims to leverage the brainpower from both universities and the technical strengths of the business community to initiate collaborative research projects.
?We are very pleased to be associated with SCUT and HKU in exploring a new breed of technology,? said Qiu Xiaoping, manager, University Relations Department, IBM Greater China. "IBM will actively support the RFID technology and applications development projects."
Apart from research and development, the center is also expected to nurture and develop technical professionals. Internship program will be available for students to participate in the R&D and applications development projects, aiming to train e-business professionals.
As a facility endowed with brains and research resources, the centre also aims at serving the business community at large. The center will foster exchanges between universities and enterprises, enabling new research results to be transformed with commercial value.
?We are seeking further opportunities to cooperate with top universities in China as they continue to enhance their academic and research standards, talent resources and research environment,? said Professor Tan Chung Jen, director of ETI, HKU." With the support of IBM?s technical innovation and industry networking, we believe that our research results will create more values for businesses."