University of Melbourne and NTT DATA sign strategic MoU to advance research, talent development and innovation
The University of Melbourne and NTT DATA, a global leader in AI, digital business and technology services, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership that will accelerate research collaboration, develop industry-ready talent and strengthen Australia's digital capabilities.
The partnership brings together the University's world-class research and innovation ecosystem with NTT DATA's global knowledge, technical expertise and international reach.
University of Melbourne Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Mark Cassidy said the agreement underscores the University’s commitment to impactful, industry-engaged research and education.
“This collaboration leverages the University’s research excellence and NTT DATA’s global capabilities across healthcare, the life sciences, education, manufacturing and beyond,” Professor Cassidy said.
“It will enable our researchers and students to harness transformative technologies – including artificial intelligence and quantum computing – through interdisciplinary discovery, ensuring our research delivers enduring social, environmental, and economic benefits for our communities, while preparing our graduates for leadership in a rapidly evolving digital economy.”
David McKeering, Executive Managing Director, NTT DATA Australia and New Zealand, said, “At NTT DATA, we aim to positively impact society through responsible innovation. Together with the University of Melbourne, we have an opportunity to define the next decade of how technology serves people. Our goal is to build a partnership focused on co-creation, merging academic rigor with industry intelligence to solve the challenges ahead. We want to provide students with a global stage and researchers with a real-world engine, showing that technology can be a primary driver of a sustainable, inclusive society.”
The MoU establishes three strategic pillars:
Developing the next generation of digital talent
The first pillar focuses on equipping graduates with the digital skills essential for Australia's modern economy. A co-designed early careers program will include Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placements, embedding University of Melbourne students in live NTT DATA projects and providing a pathway to employment with a top global technology company.
NTT DATA’s commitment to achieving 50 percent female workforce participation will guide joint diversity and inclusion initiatives across this talent development pillar.
Research collaboration to address critical challenges
The second pillar will see the partners pursue joint research and industry engagement opportunities in Australia and globally, prioritising projects that address critical industrial challenges.
An early focus will be the development of bio-digital twins for cardiovascular health. Further projects are expected across artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and quantum technologies.
Building a regional hub for innovation
The third pillar aims to establish a regional innovation hub, connecting the University's world-class ecosystem with NTT DATA's global Innovation Centre network to drive collaboration across the Parkville precinct.
With established relationships spanning local hospitals, medical research institutes and other precinct partners, NTT DATA's deeper integration into the University's ecosystem will enhance precinct-level digital infrastructure and unlock new opportunities for shared innovation.