Forging better relations between the University and small to medium enterprises

Oct 21, 2004

The University of Wollongong’s Faculty of Engineering and the Australian Industry (AI) Group, are jointly funding a 12-week student scholarship to develop a model to enable better linkages between the University and local small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The scholarship was made available to any 3rd or 4th year UOW Engineering students interested in working on an industry/university research project. The successful candidate was Miss Georgia Ivancevic. Georgia will help develop a model that outlines how industry can establish meaningful contact with UOW academics and technical expertise to work on joint projects. Mr Anthony Galea will also be participating on a voluntary basis.

The two students will research different international models of liaison between industry and academia (particularly in a regional context and with demonstrated outcomes). They will study the Swinburne University model of operation and initiate discussion with industry representatives, academics and other researchers, particularly in the Engineering and Information Technology areas with focus on UOW’s Innovation Campus.

The project aims to enhance regional development in the Illawarra, maximise ‘grass-root’ innovation potential, harness creativity and leverage business success, enhance industry productivity and provide collaborative partnership opportunities for University projects.

For further information contact: UOW’s Dean of Engineering, Professor Chris Cook on (02) 4221 3062, or Ms Debra Murphy from the AI Group on 0417 202 376

-RP