Osaka University welcomed the delegation of the University of Melbourne on 24 June 2022, led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor James McCluskey. During their visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed for a strategic partnership and a joint research initiative was launched. The delegation consisted of leaders and members of the chancellery and several faculties/schools. With the signing of this MOU, the University of Melbourne officially became a Global Knowledge Partner of Osaka University, based on the commitment of both institutions to better address pressing societal issues globally and in Australia and Japan.

The partnership opens up various academic exchange opportunities, starting with the establishment of the Osaka-Melbourne Joint Research Workshops Fund to promote the exploration of new research collaborations. Academic staff at both universities can apply for the fund to conduct up to two joint workshops, each held in Melbourne and Osaka, between August 2022 and March 2023.

The University of Melbourne is a world-leading university that has been ranked number one in Australia by independent ranking systems. With over 100 research centers and institutes, the University of Melbourne brings together expertise from all over the university and connects with leaders around the world to tackle society’s complex problems in innovative ways.

Professor McCluskey noted the success of the visit and the many ongoing potential opportunities between the universities. He said, “This MOU and Joint Research Workshops Fund are the natural next steps in our relationship with Osaka University, which is built on our shared commitment to tackling big issues. I look forward to seeing new and exciting research outcomes driven by this relationship.”

Executive Vice President of Global Engagement Professor Genta KAWAHARA, Osaka University shared these sentiments. “The signing of this MOU clearly demonstrates the joint commitment of our universities to tackle societal issues through collaborative academic activities. We are very excited about the possibilities that this MOU brings and look forward to deepening and expanding the friendship between the University of Melbourne and Osaka University,” Professor KAWAHARA said.