American technology giant Intel and Maynooth University have announced a new education and research partnership, which includes the co-funding of a new ‘state-of-the-art’ robotics lab.
The lab is intended to provide Maynooth students with hands-on learning experiences through new and emerging robotic technologies.
The new €150,000 (£128,500) lab will feature equipment used by engineers from Intel and other companies to support the development and refinement of robotics-based skills.
This new ‘innovation hub’ will support students in MU’s current degree programmes across robotics and intelligent devices, electronic engineering and computer science.
According to a statement from the university, the co-funding agreement demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships to fuel innovation and improve student learning experiences.
The establishment of the robotics lab further strengthens the ties between Intel and Maynooth University.
Dave Selkirk, director of advanced analytics MSO automation at Intel Ireland, said: “We are very proud of our close partnership with Maynooth University, a close neighbour of ours here in North Kildare.
“The development of key infrastructure in the area of robotics will provide an important opportunity for students to gain practical experience in an evolving technology field that has massive potential in Advanced High-Volume Manufacturing.”
In 2019, Intel and Maynooth University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to create a strategic research and innovation partnership.
Rebecca Doolin, VP of external affairs, Maynooth, added: ““Over the years, Maynooth University has developed a strong partnership with Intel that has fostered collaboration in various areas, including student skills and experiences, research, innovation, and community engagement.
“As neighbours in a vibrant and fast-growing region of Ireland, today’s announcement not only deepens the ties between Intel and MU, but also demonstrates the positive impacts on student learning and innovation that such partnerships can yield.”
