Vilnius University (VU) has embarked on a collaboration with the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA), established by NATO, by signing a Memorandum of Understanding. Under this partnership, VU will serve as a technology testing, assessment, verification, and validation centre, offering vital services to startups in the burgeoning field of life sciences.
According to the Vice-Rector of VU, Prof. Edita Sužiedėlienė, “VU’s commitment to innovation and collaboration is unwavering. The establishment of the DIANA testing centre at VU underscores our dedication to research and our readiness to partner with innovative companies from NATO countries.”
DIANA’s mission is to unite the finest innovators across the NATO alliance to safeguard one billion citizens. This collaboration aims to enhance NATO’s technological prowess through the adoption and integration of cutting-edge technologies and the development of industry standards.
Startups accepted into DIANA’s accelerator program will gain access to over 90 test centres across the Alliance, including VU, where they can test, demonstrate, and validate their dual-use technological solutions.
Prof. Daumantas Matulis, Director of VU Life Sciences Centre, expressed pride in the centre’s contribution to technological advancement: “Our scientists’ expertise and laboratory capabilities will facilitate the rapid and high-quality development of R&D solutions. We anticipate that our test centre will serve as a hub for startups and entrepreneurial teams working in biotechnology, environmental engineering, and novel materials.”
DIANA’s focus areas encompass big data, artificial intelligence, autonomy, quantum technologies, biotechnologies, human enhancement, energy and propulsion, novel materials, advanced manufacturing, and space. Prof. Deeph Chana, DIANA’s Managing Director, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “I’m thrilled that VU has joined the DIANA network of world-class test centres, and I am eager to witness our collective achievements in the years ahead.”
The partnership between VU and DIANA represents a significant stride in fostering innovation and addressing global challenges in the life sciences sector. Through this collaboration, both institutions are poised to drive advancements and shape the future of technological innovation.
Based on press release by University of Vilnius
