Happy New Year from the World Technology Universities Network! We are looking forward to a fantastic year ahead with our WTUN Member Institutions, friends and colleagues.

Welcome to this month’s roundup of updates and events happening across the network.

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Looking back on 2024

2024 was a busy year for the World Technology Universities Network, full of new members, accomplishments, and interesting initiatives. Look at our year in numbers:

3 New Members

The WTUN welcomed members from Canada (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology), the Philippines (Mindanao State University) and India (Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology).

8 Online Events

With contributions from colleagues across the network, we have held events to share knowledge and commemorate global events such as International Day of Clean Energy and World Engineering Day and International Women in Engineering Day.

13 Members at WTUC2024

The 2024 World Technology Universities Congress was hosted by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia in Johor Bahru under the theme of Alliances for Diplomacy: Harnessing University Collaborations for Planetary Health’. The 2024 Congress convened colleagues from 13 of our member institutions; Atlantic Technological University, Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Majan University College, Mindanao State University, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Shibaura Institute of Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Thaksin University, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, University of Bradford, and hosts of WTUC2024, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.

The 2024 Congress was chaired by WTUN Chair Professor Shirley Congdon, Vice-Chancellor of University of Bradford. We would like to thank each of our WTUN Congress speakers who can be found here: 2024 Congress Speakers.

Finally, we’d like to thank Professor Datuk TS. Ir. Dr. Siti Hamisah Tapsir, Group CEO; University Vice-Chancellor UCSI University, Malaysia, for her contributions as our Guest Lecturer for the 2024 WTUN Annual Lecture. The Lecture can be watched back here: 2024 WTUN Annual Lecture.

We look forward to a successful 2025 with your continued support and participation.

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Apply now to the WTUN Exchange Programme 2024-25

The WTUN Exchange Programme 2024-25 is now open for applications.

This year, 18 grants of £2,000 are available for academic and professional services staff members and PhD students to visit another WTUN member institution.

This year, proposals are encouraged within focus areas including Gender Equality, Sustainable Cities and Communities and Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Please note: Each WTUN member institution is only permitted to submit two proposals. Therefore, each application must be approved by the sending institution’s Operational Board Member.

The deadline for applications is Thursday 20 March 2025*.

Find out more about eligible collaborative activities and how to apply here: https://www.wtu-n.net/exchanges/

*Internal deadlines may apply.

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WTUN for International Day of Clean Energy

The WTUN has shared a call for speakers for a proposed online event on Tuesday 28 January between 12:00-15:00 (GMT).

Any colleagues who wish to contribute to this session under the theme of “Affordable and Clean Energy” (SDG7), are invited to submit a brief abstract of their intended talk.

Deadline for EOI and Abstracts: Monday 20 January 2025

Email your EOI/abstract to wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

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WTUN Student Competition 2024-25 is now live!

We are pleased to announce the launch of this year’s Student Competition. For 2024-25, students will work together to address the theme ‘Sustainable Innovation for Planetary Health – Local Solutions for Global Problems’.

Working in teams of 2-4, students are tasked to produce a new, sustainable and innovative solution to address their chosen UN SDG(s).

Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, extra points will be awarded to inter-disciplinary teams.

Deadline: Thursday 10 April 2025

See here for full details and how to enter.

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Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology

Bhubaneswar, India

Hear from Jen Webb, Professor from University of Canberra and Dr David Anshin, University of Texas, on their experiences as visiting academics to KIIT.

Professor Subasis Ghosh, from the Kalinga School of Management, shares how KIIT connects its students with industry and alumni pioneers for transformative learning.

Interested in visiting KIIT? Apply for the WTUN Exchange Programme 2024-25 for a £2,000 grant to support facilitation of collaborative works between you and a KIIT colleague.

You can find out more about KIIT, including contact information, on their WTUN Profile.

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King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi

Bangkok, Thailand

KMUTT will celebrate their 65^th anniversary this year under the theme “65 Years of Wisdom: Crafting Sustainable Futures”.

They will be celebrating this milestone through events throughout 2025 including academic conferences and international collaborations.

In the meantime, view the official logo to commemorate their 65^th anniversary here.

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Mindanao State University

Mindanao, Philippines

MSU’s University Newsletter is now available including reflections on the 12^th AICIF forwarding the role of Islamic Finance for a better world.

Read the Newsletter here.

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Shibaura Institute of Technology

Tokyo, Japan

Catch up on the latest research from SIT colleagues:

• Professor Shinya Inazumi looks to integreate ground source heat pump systems with energy piles for smarter cities. Read here.
• Associate Professor Yoshihisa Hirota and Professor Seiji Komeda explore treating prostate cancer with new platinum complexes. Read here.
• Professor Naomi Osakabe uncovers how everyday foods regulate glucose levels in the gut, improving health management. Read here.

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Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Dr A Koglia Vani, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Disaster Preparedness and Prevention Centre full member, shares her three step framework which advises year-round preparation and training for personnel to support “ready-to-go” flood responses.

Read the article here.

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Atlantic Technological University

Multi-Campus, Ireland

ATU researchers, led by Dr. José M. Fariñas-Franco, contributed to a global study on the collapse of native oyster reefs, featured in BBC Wildlife Magazine. Highlighting international collaboration, the project combined cutting-edge marine technology and ecological expertise to document the native oyster habitats off Ireland’s coast. Read more here.

A new open-access digital book, Lakes in Ireland – Mirrors of Change, showcases the vital role of Ireland’s lakes. The publication features contributions from ATU researchers Dr. Heather Lally, Dr. Emma Gray, and Professor Frances Lucy, who co-authored chapters on lake biodiversity and invasive aquatic species. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing environmental challenges facing Ireland’s lakes. Read more here.

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Technische Universität Ilmenau

Ilmenau, Germany

TU Ilmenau celebrates an upgraded Virtual Reality Lab, supported by Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Media Technologies. TU Ilmenau’s state-of-the-art Virtual Reality Lab features 77 loudspeakers for realistic acoustic simulations. As part of the I3TC, it offers cutting-edge resources for immersive technology research and invites collaborations with industry and academia to advance VR/AR and spatial audio innovations.

Read more here.

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University of Bradford

Bradford, United Kingdom

UOB has shared their Research and Innovation Annual Report 2023/24, showcasing their most recent research projects and insights into the areas of expertise that Bradford leads on.

Read the full report here.

A shorter article summarises 10 of recent research and innovation projects from the university that will change the world for the better. Read the article here.

 

The University of Bradford has appointed a new Operational Board Member: Professor Sherif El-Khamisy, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement. 

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All members are invited to contribute to this newsletter through their Operational Board Member (found here). Please contact your Operational Board member with stories or events which will be of relevance to the shared vision and commitments of the WTUN and its members, inspiring opportunity for engagement on commonalities, sharing knowledge, or collaboration.

All calls for content can be shared with the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk. 

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To discuss joining the World Technology Universities Network, please contact the WTUN Development Manager:
Denise Whitehead
Email: wtun@bradford.ac.uk

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Welcome to this month’s roundup of updates and events happening across the World Technology Universities Network.

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Advancing Global Collaboration in Sustainable Transport through the WTUN Exchange Programme

Professor Thangakumar, Head of Computer Science and Engineering at Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, recently visited the University of Bradford as part of the WTUN Exchange Programme 2023/24. His visit exemplifies how academic exchanges foster impactful collaboration, providing a platform to address global challenges like sustainable transport.

Read in full here.

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WTUN Student Competition 2024-25 is now live!

We are pleased to announce the launch of this year’s Student Competition. For 2024-25, students will work together to address the theme ‘Sustainable Innovation for Planetary Health – Local Solutions for Global Problems’.

Working in teams of 2-4, students are tasked to produce a new, sustainable and innovative solution to address their chosen UN SDG(s).

Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, extra points will be awarded to inter-disciplinary teams.

Deadline: Thursday 10 April 2025

See here for full details and how to enter.

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Advanced Warning of Out of Office from the WTUN Secretariat

The WTUN Secretariat team will be out of office for the festive period from Friday 20 December 2024 and will return to office on Thursday 02 January 2025.

All enquiries will be picked up on the team’s return to office.

For all those who will be celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, or any other festivities over the coming weeks, on behalf of the WTUN, we wish you a joyful and restful period.

 

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The 10th World Technology Universities Congress 2025 will be taking place in Songkhla, Thailand from 20-22 October 2025. Thaksin University will be hosting #WTUC2025 under the theme ‘The ‘Glocalisation’: Functional Role of Higher Education from Local to Global’.

The annual congress creates a global partnership between education, business, governments and development organisations and fosters opportunity for technology universities to showcase how they work within their broader contexts to address challenges society faces.

We will be sharing further details shortly.

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Ahlia University

Manama, Bahrain

Ahlia University partner IEEE Computer Society Digital Library (CSDL) has launched a new journal dedicated to Quantum Computing. The new publication exhibits cutting-edge research in the rapidly evolving field, sharing groundbreaking discoveries, exploring practical applications and insights from leading experts.

Read in full here.

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Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

Calgary, Canada

From SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services

Discover the Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems (CIRUS) at SAIT

Discover the Applied Research and Innovation Services (ARIS) Hub, a driving force behind Alberta’s cutting-edge research landscape, at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.  Our 77,000 square foot state-of-the-art research labs and facilities are fueled by a dynamic team of 80+ research experts dedicated to providing services and solutions for organizations.

We bridge the gap between academia, industry and communities, uniting researchers, innovators and students. This dynamic fusion cultivates skills, drives innovation and transforms concepts into tangible solutions that advance economic and environmental efforts – locally and globally.

ARIS is proud to highlight its Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems (CIRUS).

CIRUS is a specialized research center dedicated to harnessing the potential of advanced remotely piloted systems, sensors, and analytics to drive innovation, research, and the adoption of technology in industry.

Our Focus Areas

1. Industry-driven Applied Research
2. Remotely Piloted Aviation Training Centre

Our Expertise

• Advanced Drone Pilots and Technicians
• Geospatial and Remote Sensing Analysts
• Survey Technicians

Sectors We Service: Energy (Oil, Gas, Mining), Agriculture, Forestry, Health Services, Natural Resource and Emergency Management

Our Capabilities

Digital terrain modeling, bathymetry, water sampling, ground penetrating radar, vegetation health assessment, methane detection and quantification, thermal hot spot detection.

CIRUS provides technical knowledge and remote field expertise with an excellent safety record. Using sensors offering thermal, multispectral, ground penetrating radar, light detection and dual echo sonar, we provide services and training for water sampling, gas detection, night vision, and payload delivery systems. We round out the scope with services and training in planning and operations, regulations, work safety and hazard mitigation and complete the loop with data analytics management.

We’re not just solving problems; we’re shaping a brighter, more competitive future.

For further information or questions, please visit https://www.sait.ca/research-and-innovation-services or email applied.research@sait.ca.

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Shibaura Institute of Technology

Tokyo, Japan

Liquefaction is where intense shaking, such as that experienced in earthquakes, causes loose and water-saturated soils to lose strength and behave like a liquid, causing buildings to sink, cracking foundations, and collapsing roads and water lines. Soil liquefaction is present during every major earthquake, causing significant damage seen in the 2024 Noto earthquake in Japan where liquefaction damaged, 6,700 homes and the 2011 Christchurch earthquake in New Zealand, destroyed 80% of water and sewage systems.

Researchers at SIT are using AI to support city planners in identifying areas vulnerable to liquefaction. The implementation of the model aims to stable construction sites, enhance disaster planning and safer urban development.

Read in full here.

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All members are invited to contribute to this newsletter through their Operational Board Member (found here). Please contact your Operational Board member with stories or events which will be of relevance to the shared vision and commitments of the WTUN and its members, inspiring opportunity for engagement on commonalities, sharing knowledge, or collaboration.

All calls for content can be shared with the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk. 

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To discuss joining the World Technology Universities Network, please contact the WTUN Development Manager:
Denise Whitehead
Email: wtun@bradford.ac.uk

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Welcome to this month’s roundup of the stories, updates and events happening across the World Technology Universities Network.

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WTUN Operational Board Bulletin:

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WTUN Research Agenda Development

On the 15 November, a consortium of European and ASEAN located WTUN members, led by Dr Ciarán Ó hAnnracháin and Atlantic Technological University, Ireland applied to the EU-ASEAN Sustainable Connectivity Package. Drawing on the areas of excellence, interest and specialisms of the individual partner institutions and opportunities for meaningful collaboration and impactful research activities, Blue Economy was agreed as the chosen focus area. Together, WTUN members Atlantic Technological University (Cluster Lead), University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria (EU Partner), Suranaree University of Technology (Lead ASEAN Partner), Mindanao State University and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia submitted the project titled ‘Enhancing University Alliances for Sustainable Education in Aquatic Networks: Blue Economy Advanced Mobility programme (EU-ASEAN BEAM)’. 

Harnessing the established relationships and history of close collaboration by virtue of shared membership of WTUN, the cluster was able to move quickly, identifying shared areas of interest and opportunity for comprehensive, comparative research related to the Blue Economy, freshwater and marine/coastal environments, from ‘source to sea’ in Austria, Ireland, Malaysia, The Philippines, and Thailand. A key pillar of the bid was the opportunity for engagement and dissemination with wider, global WTUN membership, including at the annual WTUN Congress. As members of the WTUN, the cluster will also have access to expertise beyond the cluster members (e.g. those outside EU/ASEAN regions). The WTUN also offers opportunities for the project to be expanded and developed beyond the original remit, enhancing impact and long-term research opportunities. EU-ASEAN BEAM’s goal is to collaborate with coastal and shoreline enterprises and communities to improve their sustainability while concentrating on the social and economic requirements of the area. The proposed research agenda, draws heavily from the individual partners own areas of expertise covering a wide range of key concepts from coastal blue economy, freshwater blue economy, blue zones and wellness tourism and community engagement, capacity building and entrepreneurship.  

If successful, this will represent a milestone for the WTUN and will hopefully serve as an example for future collaborative research bids. We wish the team every success with the funding application.

Notification of selected HEI clusters expected January 2025. 

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WTUN News

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WTUN for International Week of Science and Peace

The WTUN held a webinar for International Week of Science and Peace, hosted by Dr Colins Imoh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Peace Studies and International Development at the University of Bradford. 

The webinar featured speakers from WTUN member institutions: 

• Dr Prem Shankar Pandey, Head of Training at the Centre for Professional and Career Development, Hindustan University 

• Professor Salma L. Naga-Marohombsar, Chairperson, Mathematics Department, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Mindanao State University 

• Professor SudalaiMuthu T, Chief Information Security Officer, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Hindustan University 

Couldn’t attend live? Watch the replay via the WTUN YouTube channel.

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Call for Contribution: WTUN Webinars for 2024/25

The WTUN is planning events to mark the following notable events. We are inviting contributions from all WTUN member who wish to participate in helping shape these events. Please could any colleagues who wish to participate and/or host an event related to the below (or have suggestions for something else entirely!) liaise with their Operational Board Member or the WTUN at wtun@bradford.ac.uk.

January 2025

• W/C 27 January: UN International Day of Clean Energy 
  • See details of 2024 WTUN Event here. 

February 2025

• Tuesday 11 February: UN International Day of Women and Girls in Science 

March 2025

• Tuesday 04 March: UNESCO World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development
  • See details of 2024 WTUN Event here. 
• W/C 31 March: UN International Day of Zero Waste 

April 2025

• Monday 21 April: UN World Creativity and Innovation Day 
• Tuesday 22 April: World Earth Day, ‘Our Power, Our Planet’ 

June 2025 

• Tuesday 05 June: UN World Environment Day 
• Monday 23 June: International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 
  • See details of 2024 WTUN Event here. 

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Re-visit this year’s WTUN Congress: Session recordings now available

The WTUN Annual Lecture and each of the following sessions are now available to watch via a dedicated WTUC2024 YouTube Playlist on the WTUN Channel.

• WTUN Annual Lecture; Professor Datuk TS. Ir. Dr. Siti Hamisah Tapsir, Group CEO; University Vice-Chancellor UCSI University, Malaysia
• Interdisciplinary Research Initiatives; Environment, Social and Governance for Planetary Health
• Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Community Engagement and Action for Planetary Health

Thanks again to all of the Chairs, Moderators and Speakers and to hosts Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.

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WTUN Collaboration Opportunities

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University of Bradford

On behalf of Professor Ciprian Daniel Neagu, Professor of Computing, University of Bradford*

Digital Technologies for UN SDGs for the Benefit of Local Communities: the role of digital technologies in advancing science, education and society   

Date: 6 December 2025 
Event type: Hybrid (University of Bradford and MS Teams) 

 This event brings together experts from various fields to explore the intersection of science, education, technologies, and society. Through engaging talks and discussions, the event will delve into topics ranging from effective science communication to the potential of digital technologies in shaping a sustainable future.  

Key themes: 
Communicating science; digital

innovation; interdisciplinary collaboration; community engagement, Bradford 2025 – The UK City of Culture  

Call for participation:
Professor Ciprian Daniel Neagu is extending an invitation for 1-2 speakers from WTUN member universities to contribute to this event. For the purposes of scheduling, guest speaker(s) will be allocated the following time slot(s): 

WTUN Speaker(s): 14:00-15:00 (GMT) 

Please send EOIs to wtun@bradford.ac.uk.  

EOIs should include: proposed title, brief abstract and a CV/biography. 

Deadline: Friday 29 November 2024

*The WTUN Secretariat is supporting this event via this call for speakers. Review and selection of EOIs will be undertaken by Professor Neagu. 

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WTUN Member News

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Atlantic Technological University

Marine scientists from Atlantic Technological University (ATU), led by Dr. María Pérez Tadeo, completed the AMIGOS survey, monitoring marine mammals and underwater noise from Gibraltar to Ireland. The study, part of the EU-funded STRAITS project, collected crucial data on the underwater soundscape, salinity, and productivity while providing training for early career researchers. Conducted aboard the RV Celtic Explorer, the survey supports understanding the impacts of human-made noise on marine ecosystems and fosters international collaboration. This research is pivotal for European marine conservation efforts.  

Find out more here. 

Dr. João Frias from ATU contributed to the European Marine Board’s report Navigating the Future VI (NFVI), which outlines critical marine science challenges and solutions. Launched in Brussels, the report emphasizes the interconnection of freshwater and oceans, addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and ocean pollution. It aims to guide European policymakers and researchers in advancing UN and EU sustainability goals. NFVI provides a roadmap for future marine science funding and actionable policy recommendations.

Find out more here. 

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National Taiwan University of Science and Technology

Taiwan Tech’s Associate Professor Yu-Cheng Chiu has developed groundbreaking self-healing, flexible semiconductor materials by combining traditional rubber with nano-technologies. These innovations, vital for next-gen electronic skin and biomedical sensing, enhance monitoring of health metrics like inflammation. Honored with the 2024 Ta-You Wu Memorial Award, his work showcases cutting-edge advancements in polymer science. 

Read more here. 

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Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

SAIT has partnered with YWCA Banff to establish a unique hospitality and tourism training facility, combining hands-on education with community service preservation. This collaboration supports skill development in the hospitality sector while maintaining YWCA Banff’s essential social services. The project highlights SAIT’s commitment to fostering innovation and addressing community needs in sustainable ways.  

Find out more here.

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University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria

The University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria and Johannes Kepler University Linz have launched AcadX to boost start-ups and spin-offs in Upper Austria. AcadX connects founders with investors, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial growth.  

Learn more from FH Upper Austria’s Start-up Center Director, Gerold Weisz, here. 

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University of Bradford

The University of Bradford has acquired a £72,450 Precision X-Ray Radiation Source, funded by generous donors, to advance cancer research. This state-of-the-art equipment will enhance the Institute of Cancer Therapeutics’ ability to develop personalized treatments, combining radiotherapy with chemotherapy. It promises improved outcomes with fewer side effects, impacting global cancer care. The facility strengthens the university’s commitment to innovative, transformative cancer research.  

Find out more here.

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University of Newcastle

The University of Newcastle’s Name.Narrate.Navigate.360 program has received over $2.1 million in funding to support young men and boys at risk of family, domestic, and sexual violence. In collaboration with Allambi Care, the initiative provides trauma-informed, culturally responsive support to break cycles of violence, offering counseling and psychoeducation. This program is part of Australia’s national early intervention trial to address violence. 

Find out more here. 

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Member Events

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Atlantic Technological University

Fifth Global Virtual Workshop: Leadership Through Transformation
Online

28 November 2024, 15:00-17:00 (GMT)

This workshop brings together thought leaders and practitioners to explore the enduring and impactful subject of transformational leadership. 
 
Keynote Speakers:

• Joanne Hession – CEO and founder of LIFT Ireland
• David Hession – Head of Research and Impact at LIFT Ireland
• Lene Rachel Anderson – Acclaimed Danish economist, author, and futurist, globally recognized for her work in Bildung, cultural development, and societal transformation.

Don’t miss this opportunity! Register now to learn from experts in leadership, culture, and societal growth. 
 
Find out more here: Leadership Through Transformation 

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Ahlia University

International Conference on IT Innovations and Knowledge Discovery (ITIKD 2025)
Gulf Convention Centre (Manama, Bahrain)

13-15 April 2025

This conference focuses on recent developments and findings in the domains of computational intelligence, knowledge discovery, modern trends of cyber security, social implications of technology and other IT innovative systems.

The deadline for paper submissions is 31 December 2024.

The deadline for early registration is 10 March 2025.

Find out more here: ITIKD 2025

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University of Newcastle

2025 International Conference on Sustainable Cokemaking and Ironmaking (ICSCI 2025)
City Hall (Newcastle, Australia)

Dates: 16-19 March 2025
Theme: Decarbonising the Steel Industry: Exploring technological developments for sustainable ironmaking

With the global imperative to implement low-emission cokemaking and ironmaking, the University of Newcastle and the ICSCI 2025 Organising Committee, is hosting academic and industry experts at this international event to exchange knowledge and communicate technological developments in sustainable ironmaking.

Conference topics include:

• Low emission iron and steelmaking technologies
• Decarbonisation pathways
• Raw materials for low emission ironmaking
• Fundamental studies, kinetics of reduction, gasification
• Sustainable Cokemaking
• Process Integration and Optimsation
• Regional Specific Developments

Registration for this event will close on 31 January 2025.

Find out more here: ICSCI 2025.

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Individual Member Student Mobility Activities

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University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria

Winter School in Medical Engineering 2025
University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria – Linz Campus (Linz, Austria)

Dates: 3-7 February 2025
Key Areas: Medical Stimulations, Telemonitoring, Bioprinting and Materials

The 6th Winter School in Medical Engineering, delivering workshops, lectures, tutorials, field visits and cultural activities.

This opportunity is open to final year bachelor’s/undergraduate students. Successful participants will receive 2 ECTS for their participation.

Admission requirements include studies in Medical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Technical Studies with a focus on medicine (i.e., Mechatronics, Medical Electronics) and an minimum of B1 level of English.

The cost of participation is 240 EUR, which includes a week-pass for public transport and lunches. Travel and accommodation costs will be covered by the applicant.

Find out more about the Winter School in Medical Engineering 2025 here.

International Summer Academy in Engineering 4 Women (ISAE4W)
University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria – Wels Campus (Wels, Austria)

Dates: 8-23 July 2025
Application Deadline: 30 April 2025

The Academy will deliver an intensive program combining sophisticated theory with hands-on practical experience in engineering and antural sciences.

The 2025 programme includes:

• Engineering Areas such as Electronics & Automation, Applied Mathematics and Biotechnology
• Applied Sciences in Theory and Practice, including a Group Project, Internet of Things for Astronomical Observation, and Scientific World View.
• Women In Engineering, exploring the role of women in science and research, insights from successful scientists on their careers and research projects, and opportunities for future exchange and traineeships.
• Cultural Visits such as a visit to local companies, Ars Electronica Center (museum) for knowledge on technological advancements in society, and a music festival.

Applicants will earn 4 ECTS for their participation on this course.

The cost of this academy is 850 EUR, which includes tuition fees, accommodation, meals on weekdays and field trips.

Find out more and ISAE4W here.

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Next Operational Board Meeting:

Date: Thursday 09 January 2025

Time: 08:30am-10:00am (GMT/UTC)
Via Microsoft Teams

Members will receive the agenda and papers via email prior to the meeting.

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Contribute to this Newsletter

All Operational Board members are invited to share any news, events, or collaboration opportunities from their institution. If these calls for content would be better directed to a different team within your institution, i.e., Press Office/Marketing and Communications Departments/Research Services Department, please do provide us with their contact details.

The WTUN Secretariat is keen to receive content under the following themes:

• Updates, news and research stories which will be of interest to other WTUN colleagues, perhaps inspiring opportunities to engage on commonalities/share knowledge/collaborate.
• Events and Opportunities such as Conferences, Mobility Programmes, Research Collaboration projects
• Calls from Researchers to connect or collaborate on themes, including to organise a proposal for joint funding bids.

All calls for content can be shared with the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk. 

To discuss joining the Network please contact the WTUN Development Manager
Denise Whitehead
Email: wtun@bradford.ac.uk

Welcome to this month’s roundup of the stories, updates and events happening across the World Technology Universities Network.

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WTUN Operational Board Bulletin:

Next Operational Board Meeting:

All Operational Board members are kindly reminded of the upcoming Operational Board meeting, and the first meeting of 2024-25.

Date: Thursday 07 November 2024

Time: 13:00-14:30 (UTC/GMT)
Via Microsoft Teams

Members will receive the agenda and any papers via email prior to the meeting.

 

 

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WTUN News

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WTUN for International Week of Science and Peace

Call for Speakers:

Hosted by Dr Colin’s Imoh, Assistant Professor, Department of Peace Studies and International Development, University of Bradford, we are pleased to announce this webinar to mark World Science Day for Peace and Development and International Week of Science and Peace.

Together with Dr Imoh, we invite speakers to contribute to this session under the theme ‘Science and Technology in the Service of Peace!’. 

Any WTUN member who wishes to contribute to the above session, please submit a brief abstract/outline of you intended talk. Speakers are invited to deliver a talk of 10 minutes in length. All speakers will then be invited to a panel discussion and dialogue moderated and facilitated by Dr Colins Imoh. Click here for further details of this event and to register to attend.

Deadline for EOIs and abstracts: Thursday 7 November

Email: wtun@bradford.ac.uk

Event Details:

‘Science and Technology in the Service of Peace!’

Date: Wednesday 13 November

Time: 10:00-12:00 (UTC/GMT)

Registration: www.wtu-n.net/webinars/

SDGs: #17 Partnerships for the Goals; #16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

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WTUN Collaboration Opportunities

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WTUN Accelerated Student Entrepreneurship Programme (ASEP)

From Dr Qun Shao, Deputy-Director of Bradford-Renduchintala Enterprise Ecosystem (BREE), University of Bradford

The University of Bradford has been running their Accelerated Student Entrepreneurship Programme (ASEP) in partnership with Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT) since 2016. WTUN members are now invited to participate, to create a truly international student experience by way of sending 2 students from their institution.

This programme will run through two 5-day workshops, each with a capacity of 24 students. These workshops are fast paced, allowing for real-life experiences, with the goal of enabling students to progress from first meeting to securing funding for a social or business enterprise in just five months.

Workshop 1: Hosted by University of Bradford, England, UK | 17-21 February 2025
A focus focus on introductions, generation and selection of enterprise ideas and the formation of founder teams, where appropriate. Following this workshop, students receive support to develop and test their business plan.

Workshop 2: Hosted by Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China | 30 June -4 July 2025
An entrepreneurship ‘boot camp’ supporting founder teams finalise prototypes, concepts and designs, develop a compelling presentation and promotional literature. At the end of the workshop, they then have the opportunity to pitch to a panel of real investors and benefactors for real money with which to grow their new enterprise.

Participating WTUN members will be responsible for air fare and visas to the UK and China, plus a £375 (GBP) contribution to a seed fund per student. All other costs, including hotel accommodation, food, and social activities will be covered by the host institutions, UOB and BUCT.

Participating institutions also have the opportunity to share a 10% stake in any arising enterprises involving their students.

For further information about the ASEP programme, please visit the ASEP webpage.

Interested members must reserve their places before 15 November 2024. Please contact Dr Qun Shao for further information or to confirm your interest at bree@bradford.ac.uk.

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WTUN Member News

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Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences

HSHL’s podcast launches its second season which includes exciting research discussions in which HSHL professors share insights into their research.

In the first episode, Prof. Dr. -Ing. Jan Pelzl discusses cybersecurity and the federal government’s efforts to make companies more accountable for IT security.

Listen to the podcast here.

Please note: This podcast is delivered in German.

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University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria

University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria have shared a call for applications to the Ernst Mach Grant.

The scholarship is open to students at member institutions in the following countries: Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, India, Japan, Malaysia, Oman, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, Zimbabwe.

The areas of study or research include:

• Natural Sciences
• Technical Sciences
• Human Medicine, Health Sciences
• Agricultural Sciences
• Social Sciences

Grants are available for a semester and/or one-year, from 4 months to up to 10 months for undergraduate and graduates. This grant is intended as supplementary, at a monthly rate of 1,300 EUR, therefore applicants will need their own funds to support their study.

Scholarship holders with citizenship and travel from non-European developing countries will receive a travel costs subsidy of up to 1,200 EUR. Applicable countries include Malaysia and Thailand.

Deadline for applications is 01 February 2025.

Find out more about the Ernst Mach Grant here.

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University of Bradford

The University of Bradford has been commended by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) for its investment in technology to deliver real-world impact.

Following rounds of infrastructure funding to invest in technology for archaeology and digital heritage applications, the university has delivered numerous projects contributing to advancing archaeology research.

The use of vehicle-mounted 3D mapping cameras and scanners were the first of their kind in the UK and have been used to expand on the work of Virtual Bradford, the UK’s first brick-for-brick digital replica of a city centre. The work on Bradford’s “digital twin” has been completed with Bradford Council and could be used to visualise flooding, air quality, building development and the management of parks and gardens.

The technology used in Virtual Bradford has future applications in town planning and could transform thinking towards infrastructure, not just in the UK, but worldwide.

Learn more about the university’s work in archaeology and digital heritage.

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University of Newcastle

University of Newcastle will lead a national research program which aims to transform Australia’s health prevention system and reduce the chronic disease burden through an award of $5 million (AUD) from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). Through the project, they hope to overcome the 15 to 17-year lag it takes for health systems to adopt proven chronic disease interventions.

Learn more about the NHMRC grant and the project here.

Newcastle Permanent and the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) will partner together through a $2 million (AUD) donation to advance the impact of medical research. The partnership aims to act as a new model for how industry can collaborate with research institutions to drive innovation and positive change, fostering a culture of collaboration and investment-readiness.

Learn more about the Newcastle Permanent and HMRI partnership here.

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Member Events

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Ahlia University

 

International Conference on IT Innovations and Knowledge Discovery (ITIKD 2025)

13-15 April 2025

Gulf Convention Centre (Manama, Bahrain)

This conference focuses on recent developments and findings in the domains of computational intelligence, knowledge discovery, modern trends of cyber security, social implications of technology and other IT innovative systems.

The deadline for paper submissions is 31 December 2024.

The deadline for early registration is 10 March 2025.

Find out more here: ITIKD 2025

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University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria

Hydrogen.bridge Wels 

04-05 November 2024
University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria – Wels Campus (Wels, Austria)

This two-day event will share a series of specialist lectures dedicated to hydrogen, including a panel discussion on the challenges within Upper Austria.

Find out more about Hydrogen.bridge Wels here.

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Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

International Human-Centered Technology Conference (iHumEnTech 2024)
28-29 November 2024
Impiana Hotel (Johor Bahru, Malaysia) and Online

iHumEnTech 2024 is organised to provide a platform for researchers to share their findings in science and technology related to analysis and application on the human. Researchers are encouraged to participate on the following 10 themes:

• Assistive technology & bioinstrumentation
• Signal & image processing
• Artificial Intelligence for human technology
• Health informatics
• Rehabilitation & therapy
• Nutritional & drug delivery technology
• Human-computer interaction
• Sports innovation & technology
• Human-systems integration
• Ergonomics, health & safety

Find out more about iHumEnTech 2024 here.

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University of Bradford

WISE Research Cluster Seminar: Professor Dr Keun Lee
13 November 2024, 13:00-14:00 (UTC)
Online

Wealth, Inclusive Societies and Ethics (WISE) Research Cluster will be hosting a research seminar with Professor Dr Keun Lee, exploring the ‘Varieties of Regional Innovation Systems around the world and Catchup by Latecomers’.

Find out more here: WISE Research Cluster

DHEZ Seminar Series
27 September 2024, 13:00-14:00 (UTC)
Online

‘Safe & Sound Project with Helen Martel’

Find out more here: DHEZ Seminar Series 24/25

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University of Newcastle

2025 International Conference on Sustainable Cokemaking and Ironmaking (ICSCI 2025)
City Hall (Newcastle, Australia)

Dates: 16-19 March 2025
Theme: Decarbonising the Steel Industry: Exploring technological developments for sustainable ironmaking

With the global imperative to implement low-emission cokemaking and ironmaking, the University of Newcastle and the ICSCI 2025 Organising Committee, is hosting academic and industry experts at this international event to exchange knowledge and communicate technological developments in sustainable ironmaking.

Conference topics include:

• Low emission iron and steelmaking technologies
• Decarbonisation pathways
• Raw materials for low emission ironmaking
• Fundamental studies, kinetics of reduction, gasification
• Sustainable Cokemaking
• Process Integration and Optimsation
• Regional Specific Developments

Registration for this event will close on 31 January 2025.

Find out more here: ICSCI 2025.

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Individual Member Student Mobility Activities

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University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria

Winter School in Medical Engineering 2025
University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria – Linz Campus (Linz, Austria)

Dates: 3-7 February 2025
Key Areas: Medical Stimulations, Telemonitoring, Bioprinting and Materials

The 6th Winter School in Medical Engineering, delivering workshops, lectures, tutorials, field visits and cultural activities.

This opportunity is open to final year bachelor’s/undergraduate students. Successful participants will receive 2 ECTS for their participation.

Admission requirements include studies in Medical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Technical Studies with a focus on medicine (i.e., Mechatronics, Medical Electronics) and an minimum of B1 level of English.

The cost of participation is 240 EUR, which includes a week-pass for public transport and lunches. Travel and accommodation costs will be covered by the applicant.

Find out more about the Winter School in Medical Engineering 2025 here.

 

International Summer Academy in Engineering 4 Women (ISAE4W)
University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria – Wels Campus (Wels, Austria)

Dates: 8-23 July 2025
Application Deadline: 30 April 2025

The Academy will deliver an intensive program combining sophisticated theory with hands-on practical experience in engineering and antural sciences.

The 2025 programme includes:

• Engineering Areas such as Electronics & Automation, Applied Mathematics and Biotechnology
• Applied Sciences in Theory and Practice, including a Group Project, Internet of Things for Astronomical Observation, and Scientific World View.
• Women In Engineering, exploring the role of women in science and research, insights from successful scientists on their careers and research projects, and opportunities for future exchange and traineeships.
• Cultural Visits such as a visit to local companies, Ars Electronica Center (museum) for knowledge on technological advancements in society, and a music festival.

Applicants will earn 4 ECTS for their participation on this course.

The cost of this academy is 850 EUR, which includes tuition fees, accommodation, meals on weekdays and field trips.

Find out more and ISAE4W here.

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Contribute to this Newsletter

All Operational Board members are invited to share any news, events, or collaboration opportunities from their institution. If these calls for content would be better directed to a different team within your institution, i.e., Press Office/Marketing and Communications Departments/Research Services Department, please do provide us with their contact details.

The WTUN Secretariat is keen to receive content under the following themes:

• Updates, news and research stories which will be of interest to other WTUN colleagues, perhaps inspiring opportunities to engage on commonalities/share knowledge/collaborate.
• Events and Opportunities such as Conferences, Mobility Programmes, Research Collaboration projects
• Calls from Researchers to connect or collaborate on themes, including to organise a proposal for joint funding bids.

All calls for content can be shared with the WTUN Secretariat at wtun@bradford.ac.uk. 

 

 

To discuss joining the Network please contact the WTUN Development Manager
Denise Whitehead
Email: wtun@bradford.ac.uk