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New research institute drives technology innovation
RMIT University is leading the way in the development of cutting-edge materials
and innovative technology systems with the launch this week of a new research
institute that aims to meet the future needs of Australian and international industry.
The RMIT Platform Technologies Research Institute will focus on radically
improving the operational capabilities of a range of industries through the
integration of smart materials and systems into technology platforms.
Institute Director, Professor Xinghuo Yu, said researchers from across disciplines
would be working together to develop integrated solutions for industries ranging
from aerospace to information security.
“The modern age of industrial development demands a whole-of-systems approach to
tackle important technological issues, which are not bound by traditional disciplinary
divisions,” Professor Yu said.
“This institute will drive innovation in four key areas: nanotechnology, sports
engineering technology, e-security solutions and intelligent information
technologies.
“Our cross-disciplinary approach will help us take the lead in applied research that
will offer real, practical benefits for industry now and well into the future. It will
enable us to ask significant research questions fundamental to the future of
industry and society.”
The institute’s research expertise covers a wide range of discipline areas, including
aerospace, electrical, electronic and mechanical engineering, materials science,
information technologies, modelling and photonics.
RMIT Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Margaret Gardner AO, said the
Platform Technologies Research Institute was one of four institutes recently
established by RMIT to break barriers between disciplines and deliver scale and
excellence in research.
“RMIT has a well-deserved reputation for collaborating closely with industry and working
on research with lasting impact,” Professor Gardner said.
“The launch of this new research institute will strengthen our ability to find innovative
solutions to the challenges faced by industry in Australia and across the globe.”
The RMIT Platform Technologies Research Institute will be launched on Thursday,
18 September, at RMIT’s Storey Hall.
For interviews: Professor Xinghuo Yu, (03) 9925 5317 or 0417 704 091.
For media enquiries: RMIT University Media and Communications, Paul
Noonan, (03) 9925 2373 or 0409 239 021.
17 September, 2008
NEWS 
