The University of Manchester is to collaborate with leading innovator in AI-driven automation and robotics, InGen Dynamics, to create a dynamic ecosystem where academia and industry work hand-in-hand to develop AI-powered solutions that redefine the future of automation and robotics.
The University and the Santa Clara-based company have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a strategic partnership aimed at leveraging the strengths of both organisations to drive advancements in AI applications across multiple sectors, including healthcare, social care, education, and sustainability.
This collaboration will provide a foundation for joint research projects, academic exchange programs, and curriculum development initiatives that will shape the future of AI-driven solutions.
Under the terms of the MoU, the partnership will focus on key initiatives, including:
Research and Development in AI, Robotics, and Automation - Exploring applications of AI in healthcare, education, and sustainability, including the development of AI-powered robotic solutions such as Fari for elderly care and Senpai for special needs education.
AI for All Initiative - Facilitating upskilling and workforce development programs in AI and robotics for healthcare, social care, and education professionals.
Joint Degree Programs and Curriculum Development - Establishing specialized programs in AI, robotics, and automation, incorporating theoretical and practical components with hands-on experience using InGen Dynamics' technologies, including Fari, Senpai, and Origami AI.
Social Care Testbed Collaboration - Deploying and evaluating AI-driven robotics solutions in real-world environments to improve care delivery and assess the impact of AI in social care settings.
AI Ethics and Responsible AI Initiatives - Promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical AI development through collaborative research and policy discussions.
Global Exchange Programs - Enabling international knowledge-sharing by connecting students and researchers from the University of Manchester with InGen Dynamics' Futurenauts initiative in India and beyond.
The collaboration will be overseen by a Steering Committee co-chaired by Professor Andrew Weightman, Professor of Medical Mechatronics the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Arshad Hisham, Founder & CEO of InGen Dynamics. The committee will meet biannually to define strategic roadmaps and identify new areas of mutual interest.
Mr Hisham, said: "This partnership with The University of Manchester is a significant step toward advancing AI and robotics research that has real-world impact.
"By combining our industry expertise with the academic excellence of Manchester, we aim to accelerate innovation and create transformative AI solutions for global challenges."
Professor Weightman added: "We are excited to collaborate with InGen Dynamics to drive forward research and education in AI and automation.
"This MoU will enable us to integrate cutting-edge technology into our programs while fostering innovation that benefits society."
