RTDS Group facilitates new Austria and New Zealand Research Collaboration

May 11, 2026 | News

Technische Universitaet Wien (TU Wien) and Auckland University of Technology (AUT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen research collaboration and foster joint innovation initiatives between Austria and New Zealand.

Two individuals sign a document at a table adorned with floral arrangements with both Austrian and New Zealand flags presented.

The partnership will support collaboration on Horizon Europe proposals, joint research programmes, staff exchanges, and academic capacity building, while also encouraging curriculum innovation and stronger international visibility for both institutions. New Zealand (NZ) is since 2022 associated to Horizon Europe and thus fully eligible for project participation.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 11 May 2026 at the New Zealand Official Residence in Vienna with Ambassador Andrew Williams, marking an important step in expanding long-term global research partnerships between the two universities.

A man stands at a podium speaking, with two banners behind him. The left banner is orange with "AUT" and "KNOWLEDGE THAT WORKS" visible. The right banner is dark green with a silver fern and "NEW ZEALAND" text, featuring a bird on a branch.
RTDS Chairman and Founder, Dr. Stephen Webb initiated the collaboration and facilitated discussions to connect researchers and institutional leaders from both sides to explore opportunities for cooperation.

Researchers shared expertise and identified several strategic areas for joint collaboration, including:

  • Smart and resilient cities
  • Renewable energy
  • Disaster and emergency management
  • Safe AI
  • Space research
  • Digital health and medical technologies

The collaboration will also launch a series of research fellowships between AUT and TU Wien over the coming years, supporting academic exchange and strengthening international research networks.

Commenting on the importance of the partnership, RTDS Chairman and Founder Stephen Webb said:

“Being NZ-born and raised, I’m proud to bring my 30 years of EU project experience to New Zealand institutions to build mutually benefits. New Zealand, although with its geographic distance, shares common goals in sustainable economic growth and societal values with the EU and has much to offer in terms of technology, data and scientific expertise. Post project commercial exploitation of results is furthermore supported by an EU-NZ Free Trade Agreement, in place since 1st May 2024.”

A group of people stand in front of a wooden paneled wall, some posing for a photo. Two banners are visible behind them.

RTDS Group supports EU and international collaboration to connect academic, research, and industrial stakeholders to drive innovation and create impact through research and cooperation.