Swinburne and Tongji University form joint research centre
In Summary
Swinburne University of Technology has entered into a new partnership with one of China’s most prestigious design, research and innovation institutions- Tongji University.
The partnership will bring together Tongji’s College of Design and Innovation and Swinburne’s School of Design and will see them develop a joint research centre and PhD program.
The partnership will also facilitate leading experts from both universities to collaborate on new research.
PhD students who graduate will be awarded jointly badged degrees from both Swinburne and Tongji.
Minister for Creative Industries, Martin Foley, joined representatives from the two universities in Shanghai as they signed the agreement, which will focus on design, research and innovation.
Minister Foley also announced funding for PhD Design Research Scholarships for up to three students each year from 2017, when the joint centre opens. The scholarships will be up to $5000 in value and will be used for travel, living expenses and research expenditure.
“The joint research Centre between Tongji and Swinburne’s School of Design is an important step in developing internationally important research in the areas of design and innovation,” Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside, Dean of Swinburne’s School of Design said.
“Design research and practice play a fundamental role in the future growth of our economy and has wider benefits to society and wellbeing.
“Good design, underpinned by solid research, is an important catalyst for our future competitiveness and prosperity. We are delighted to be working closely with Tongji University.”
History of Swinburne’s partnership with Tongji University
Swinburne first formed a partnership with Tongji University in 2012 as members of Design Factory Global Network, with their collaboration leading to new partnerships in other fields.
In May 2015 Swinburne announced a new program that would allow Chinese students the opportunity to attain a dual Bachelor of Science (Physics) degree from both universities.
Last month Swinburne and Tongji established an Administrative Staff Exchange Program, which gives administrative staff from one institution to undertake professional development at the other.
Swinburne also has a student exchange partnership with Tongji University, which allows students to spend up to year studying abroad at the other organisation.