Ecovacs (科沃斯, 603486.SH), China’s largest robotic vacuum cleaner producer by market share, signed an agreement of cooperation on March 10 with Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), to push for closer integration of research and industry.
According to the agreement, the two sides will open a HUST-Ecovacs joint research center, joining hands to conduct research on photoelectric sensor, intelligent algorithms, robotic platform and other technologies.
The ultimate goal is to build a deeper nexus between academic, research and industry, serving the country’s innovation-driven growth strategy and meeting Ecovacs’ needs for talent to fuel its development.
Under the agreement, the two sides will nurture doctoral and master candidates together, set up working stations for post-doctoral fellows in robotics, mechanical science or related subjects.
Besides, Ecavacs will provide short-term internships to HUST students, create job openings for its graduates and hold exclusive job interviews.
At the agreement signing ceremony, the two sides acknowledged the complementarity and benefits of this collaboration.
Ecovacs, a Suzhou-headquartered global leader in vacuum robotic sweepers for both home and commercial use, will have access to the talent pool at HUST, one of the best polytechnic universities within China.
It is certified as a “211” and “985” college by China’s Ministry of Education, putting it in the same league as elite tertiary education providers such as Tsinghua, Peking, Fudan and Shanghai Jiao Tong universities.
On the side of HUST, it can leverage the product, technological and funding strengths of Ecovacs and finance its academic research in robotics.
Ecovacs, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, said the tie-up with HUST is yet another illustration of its continued investment in innovation and talent.
It’s common for corporations in China to partner with universities and research institutes to tap into their talent and research prowess.
