USM, PENANG, 29 August 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) demonstrated its commitment towards advancing research excellence and sustainability with the signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on a partnership with AT&S Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd earlier today.
This partnership is important in fostering research initiatives that would align with both academic and industrial objectives, particularly in the realm of sustainable practices and technological advancements.
The MoA was signed by USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Industry and Community Network, Professor Dr. Azlan Amran, representing the Vice-Chancellor, while AT&S was represented by its Human Resource Senior Director, Madam Sharifah Salmah Syed Harun.
“The collaboration focuses on the critical area of wastewater recycling, supported by the USM-Industry Research Matching Grant,” said Azlan.
“Leading this initiative are Dr. Nurul’Ain Jabit and Dr. Suhaina Ismail from the School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering at USM, with the aim to analyze selected wastewater streams from IC-Substrate technology, focusing on metallic residue deposition and its impact on material quality,” he added.
Additionally, this partnership will promote knowledge transfer between academic researchers and industry professionals, ensuring that theoretical research is effectively translated into practical applications, thereby enhancing innovation and contributing to sustainable industrial practices.
The MoA signing also marks the launch of a new Master’s (MSc) programme in Advanced Semiconductor Packaging, to be offered in the upcoming Academic Session 2025/2026.
This programme, developed in collaboration with AT&S, aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs, focusing on advanced packaging technologies crucial for the next generation of electronic devices.
The partnership between USM and AT&S is not only a testament to the value of industry-academia collaborations, but also offers significant opportunities for postgraduate students.
Through this initiative, two Master’s projects will be supported, providing students with valuable research experience and fostering the development of future industry leaders.
Also present were the USM Director of Industry Network, Associate Professor Dr. Shaizatulaqma Kamalul Ariffin; AT&S ESG Manager, Mr. Loh Chin Ling; and principal officers of USM and AT&S Malaysia.
