Delegation from Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council Visits VU and FTMC
On 15 September, representatives from Vilnius University (VU) and the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC) welcomed a delegation led by Prof. Robert Bing-Yu Chen, Deputy Minister of Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council (NSTC). The meeting addressed advances in artificial intelligence research, data analysis and its applications, the rapid expansion of high technologies, and the research and development of next-generation semiconductor technologies.
“The purpose of this visit is to encourage more researchers from the two countries to work together and to strengthen collaborations. I believe that FTMC and VU are very important research institutions in the region. We would also like to know what kind of research you are currently focusing on, so that we can consider possible topics for future collaborations,” said Prof. R. Bing-Yu Chen.
“We hope to further expand the already intensive collaboration between Lithuanian and Taiwanese scientists. We discussed new areas where competencies of our scientists are complementary, and the synergy of knowledge and experience can create favourable conditions for scientific breakthroughs and innovations in high-tech areas,” highlighted Prof. Gintaras Valušis, Pro-Rector for Research at VU.
During the visit, discussions centred on the scientific research and academic programmes carried out at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics and the Faculty of Physics at VU. The delegation was introduced to the infrastructure of the most powerful supercomputer in the Baltic region (VU HPC), as well as ongoing international initiatives and collaborative projects. VU representatives emphasised the University’s involvement in the European EuroHPC and EGI initiatives, and also highlighted the importance of national competence centers in the implementation of services based on high-performance computing.
“This visit is particularly significant for the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, as it opens up new opportunities for international collaboration in the fields of artificial intelligence, data analysis, and supercomputing technologies, fostering joint scientific research. Furthermore, the meeting with the Taiwanese delegation provides an opportunity to adopt best practices in the development of high technologies and to engage more actively in international initiatives,” said Povilas Treigys, Vice-Dean for Information Technologies at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics of VU.
The presentation also highlighted the work carried out at FTMC in the fields of wide-ranging laser systems, optical coatings, life sciences technologies, smart textiles, and nanoengineering. It was noted that FTMC and Taiwanese researchers are currently conducting three joint projects in photonics and optoelectronics. Moreover, the importance of developing the latest technologies for defence was also emphasised, with particular attention given to protection against drones. “We were delighted to present FTMC’s activities to our colleagues from Taiwan and share the projects we are working on in key areas of science and technology. We believe this partnership will open up even more opportunities for joint research and innovation in the future,” noted FTMC Director Prof. Ramūnas Skaudžius.
The Taiwanese guests also toured scientific laboratories.
“We are strengthening our collaboration with international colleagues in the fields of science and innovation. Our aim is to create more opportunities for students to undertake placements in Taiwan, thereby fostering not only academic but also cultural exchange between our countries. We are sincerely grateful that Prof. Shun-Fen Tzeng, Executive Director of the Science and Technology Division of the Taiwanese Representative Office in Lithuania, and former Director Prof. Da-Chuan Cheng are actively contributing to the strengthening of collaboration between Lithuanian and Taiwanese researchers”, said Prof. Pranciškus Vitta, Vice Dean for Science and Strategic Development at the Faculty of Physics.
During the meeting, new initiatives were discussed, including the agreement between VU and the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation to establish the Artificial Intelligence Competence and Technology Centre (LitAI). Attention was also drawn to the collaboration between VU, FTMC, and international partners in the development of a Competence Centre for Terahertz and Hybrid Semiconductor Chips. In addition, the newly inaugurated National Chip Competence Centre, “ChipsC² LT”, was introduced. These initiatives mark a significant step in strengthening Lithuania’s role in the field of advanced technologies and innovation.