“We know that ITMO University is one of the leading Russian institutions taking part in Project 5-100. It is a modern and dynamic university, which follows its’ own strategy in order to be a unique “non-classical” center,” noted Vladislav Likholetov, Director at International Partnerships & Initiatives, who came to St. Petersburg together with his colleagues Christopher Fender, Director at Office of Technology Management and Industry Relations and William Allen, Professor at College of Business.
While discussing international entrepreneurial activities the experts came to the point that American and Russian universities use the same tools to promote innovations. First of all universities develop startup accelerators and business incubators, look for financial support required for research projects as well as attract investors and business angels.
Mr. Fender commented on the fields to which researchers of both universities contribute: “Scientists at University of Missouri analyze how to apply nanotechnologies for visualization purposes and cancer diagnosis. These projects can be supplemented with knowledge of ITMO University colleagues. Furthermore we can develop similar solutions and promote them to the market in partnership,” said Mr. Fender.
University of Missouri and ITMO University experts work on so-called “Video-360,” a technology for making panoramic videos. However unlike the Russian project, which focuses on needs of tourists as well as serves as a tool for cultural heritage saving, the American one is applied more to education and journalism.
According to Mr. Likholetov, the universities have no crucial disagreements that can hinder the collaboration. The only difficulties that American and Russian partners can face are language barriers and time difference. However representatives of the universities plan to make contacts as well as launch not only technological transfer activities, but also develop joint short-term programs, academic exchange and other research activities such as participation in conferences and seminars.
Previously Vitaly Gruzdev, Professor at University of Missouri, visited the International Congress “Lasers and Photonics” initiated by ITMO University. The professor is sure that “if the universities have the same number of mutually profitable projects in the future they will sign a memorandum.”
