research cooperation — research cooperation — Cyprus is actively seeking research and innovation cooperation with Australia, a move spearheaded by Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides during his recent visit to the continent. This initiative forms part of Cyprus’s strategy to position itself as a gateway hub to Europe.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Joined by Cyprus’ High Commissioner in Australia, Antonis Sammoutis, Skourides engaged in a series of high-level meetings aimed at bolstering ties between the two nations in the fields of research and innovation.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Research cooperation: Strengthening Research Ties
During his visit, Skourides met with Australia’s Chief Scientist, Tony Haymet, where he presented an overview of Cyprus’s burgeoning research and innovation ecosystem. Central to their discussions was the Research and Innovation Strategy for 2024–2026, which seeks to enhance collaboration across various sectors including climate change and sustainability, ocean science, robotics, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies.
Learning from Best Practices
A significant focus of the discussions was on how Australia’s effective emergency response and fire management policies could inform similar strategies in Cyprus. Skourides met with officials from the Department of Infrastructure, including Lori Mancel and Benedict Lyons, to exchange insights on drone policies for fire prevention and emergency response.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Innovative Water Quality Monitoring
At the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), he was introduced to Project Aquawatch by Janet Anstee, which aims to create an integrated water quality monitoring and forecasting system. The project employs water sensors, earth observation data, and advanced management technologies, prompting discussions on how European best practices could complement Aquawatch’s initiatives.
Exploring Synergies in Technology
Skourides also met with Katherine Woodthorpe, President of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering (ATSE), and Peter Derbyshire, ATSE’s Director of Policy and International Affairs. Their conversation examined potential synergies between the two countries in various sectors such as agro-food and agritech, climate tech, health, and MedTech.
Academic Collaborations
At the University of Melbourne, Skourides engaged with senior leaders to discuss commercialisation best practices in MedTech, SportTech, AgriTech, and EnviroTech. Notably, he met Michelle Foster, Dean of Melbourne Law School, and discussed the innovative use of artificial intelligence in legal education.
Monash University also showcased its research expertise in fields including medicine, health sciences, and sustainable development. These academic collaborations highlight Cyprus’s commitment to advancing its innovation ecosystem.
Fostering Business Connections
On September 4, Skourides participated in a panel discussion at the 14th World Chamber of Commerce Congress in Melbourne, where he shared insights on leadership styles grounded in purpose and empathy. The visit was further marked by meetings with Australian technology companies and startups, facilitated by George Georgiou, President of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Australia.
Highlighting Cyprus’s Success Stories
At a diaspora event attended by notable figures including Andrea Michaels, Minister of Innovation and SMEs for South Australia, Skourides delivered a keynote speech titled “Bridging Continents: Cyprus’s Rapidly Growing R&I Ecosystem.” He showcased successful initiatives from Cyprus such as the Cyprus Space Research and Innovation Centre (C-SpaRC) and the SOZO Brain Center, reinforcing the narrative of collaboration between the two nations.
Before concluding his visit, Skourides participated in media engagements, reflecting on the inspiring dedication of Australia’s scientists, policymakers, and entrepreneurs. He asserted that the meetings had paved the way for meaningful partnerships in sectors like AI, MedTech, and climate resilience, with two promising Australian startups already considering a presence in Cyprus.
Georgiou echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism about the collaborative potential between Cyprus and Australia. The Cypriot diaspora in Melbourne was also noted to have gained a renewed sense of pride in the progress Cyprus has made, underlining the importance of this international engagement.
