The University of Queensland (UQ) hosted senior leaders from the University of Alberta (U of A) in Brisbane this week, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral research ties and advancing collaboration across key sectors for both Australia and Canada.
The visit coincided with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s trip to Australia to advance cooperation on trade, critical minerals, emerging technologies, and defence. His agenda highlights the need for like‑minded nations to work together in areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, maritime security and quantum technologies – sectors where Australia and Canada share clear strategic interests.
Both governments have emphasised the essential role of universities in building the innovation, economic resilience and workforce capability required to strengthen defence and respond to global geopolitical shifts.
During the visit, UQ and U of A signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation across research, innovation and mobility. Through the MoU, both institutions will work to align expertise and build capacity in emerging technologies that address global security and economic priorities.
UQ Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Deborah Terry AC said the partnership strengthens Australia’s ability to address complex global challenges by driving research breakthroughs, cultivating advanced skills and accelerating innovations that support better jobs, stronger industries and a high quality of life for Australians.
“Emerging technologies are reshaping every facet of society, and universities have a responsibility to lead that transformation with purpose and ambition. By deepening our partnership with U of A, UQ is helping to accelerate the discovery and deployment of innovations in areas such as AI, quantum science, advanced manufacturing and biotechnology,” Professor Terry said.
“Together, we are building the research capability, talent pathways and international networks that will ensure Australia and Canada not only keep pace with technological change but also help steer its direction for the benefit of our communities and the world.”
The agreement lays the foundation for developing talent pipelines, supporting student and researcher exchanges, and advancing international collaboration in areas of mutual strength such as Indigenous education and research, AI, and health sciences. The partnership will also leverage the world-class strengths of both universities’ business schools in entrepreneurship and innovation, including programs that equip students and researchers to translate research into commercial impact and new venture creation.
U of A Vice-President (International & Enterprise) David Bressler said the formal partnership reflects a shared ambition to shape the future.
“By aligning our strengths in defence, advanced technologies and innovation ecosystems, we are creating meaningful pathways for collaborative research, talent mobility and industry engagement that will benefit both our institutions, our countries, and the world,” he said.
This latest milestone builds on longstanding ties between UQ and U of A – and between UQ and Canada more broadly – spanning sustainable agriculture and agrifood systems, public and environmental health, regenerative medicine and biomedical sciences, Indigenous education and research, infectious diseases, engineering and technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, and quantum science. Cross-cultural and student mobility links are also strong through exchange programs and global experiences.
Learn more about how UQ collaborates with Canada
Images: Taina Flatz
