The University of Prince Edward Island and Holland College announced a new agreement today to work together to administer resources in the areas of research and development, and commercialization. A memorandum of understanding (MOU), signed by Dr. Audrey Penner, Holland College’s Director of Applied Research, and Dr. Robert Gilmour, UPEI’s Vice-President Research, outlines the terms of the agreement.

“This is an important step in the growth of research at both institutions,” said Dr. Gilmour. “The university and college have made giant leaps in the last decade in terms of R&D and commercialization of new technology. That growth requires resources for proper management and administration. It only makes sense that we work together.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Holland College and UPEI will cooperate in partnerships with industry, research, commercialization, submission of grant proposals, intellectual property development and protection, and the sharing of facilities. The institutions also agree to work together to review grant applications, negotiate contracts, and conduct compliance reviews for animal care, biosafety, and research ethics.

“Holland College has gained a national reputation for excellence in applied research,” said Dr. Penner. “Together, two institutions can model outstanding research collaboration that supports industry and economic growth for this province.”

Both institutions have enjoyed tremendous growth in R&D since the turn of the millennium. Holland College has accumulated research activity totaling more than $10 million since 2002, while overall research activity at the college increased 16 per cent in 2012 alone. Annual research expenditures at UPEI have grown from approximately $2 million in 2000 to nearly $16 million in 2012.

In this picture: Dr. Robert Gilmour is UPEI’s Vice-President Research; Dr. Audrey Penner is Director of Adult Education, Learner Supports and Applied Research at Holland College