Researchers will be able to access cutting-edge tools to tackle society's most pressing challenges across healthcare, manufacturing and sustainability, thanks to a new partnership between the University of Melbourne and Thermo Fisher Scientific (Thermo Fisher).
The Applications, Service and Knowledge Centre (A.S.K Centre) and related Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will give researchers access to specialised expertise and technology. The A.S.K Centre aims to accelerate scientific breakthroughs by providing support with complex data analysis, equipment performance and maintenance, and technical training to enhance research capabilities across the University.
University of Melbourne Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Mark Cassidy said the partnership goes beyond traditional equipment support and will be transformative for researchers.
"This collaboration creates pathways for joint research initiatives, methodology development, and access to technology that will help our researchers explore bold, innovative and interdisciplinary solutions to global challenges," Professor Cassidy said.
"Our new partnership will align Thermo Fisher's technical capabilities with the University's strategic priorities so we can deliver impactful and sustainable research outcomes.
"This collaboration will also provide opportunities for our early-career and graduate researchers to gain industry experience within the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct and develop in-demand skills."
L-R: University of Melbourne Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Infrastructure) Professor Ivan Marusic and Thermo Fisher Vice President and General Manager Australia and New Zealand Mr Domenic Stranieri signed the MoU at the University's Parkville campus.
Thermo Fisher Vice President and General Manager Australia and New Zealand Domenic Stranieri said the launch of the A.S.K Centre marks an exciting new chapter.
"By embedding our domain specialists within the University's world-class research environment, we'll deliver outstanding support that helps drive scientific innovation," Mr Stranieri said.
"This new strategic partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer."
University of Melbourne Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research Infrastructure) Professor Ivan Marusic and Mr Stranieri signed the MoU, which focuses on supporting research innovation and infrastructure, precinct development, enterprise strategy, and talent development.
The A.S.K Centre is in the Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute located in the heart of the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct, the third largest precinct of its kind in the world.
