Dubai: American University of Sharjah: American University of Sharjah (AUS) is collaborating with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to transform the university's research environment and accelerate the adoption of advanced cloud technologies across the university.
According to Emirates News Agency, AWS will provide AUS with technical, infrastructural, and strategic support, enabling the university to strengthen its digital foundation and expand cloud fluency across its community. Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, commented on the significance of the agreement, emphasizing its role in positioning the university at the forefront of cloud-powered research and academic innovation. He highlighted the creation of an ecosystem that enables faculty and students to engage with advanced technologies, applying them to contemporary challenges as a strategic investment in AUS's academic mission, institutional capacity, and regional impact.
In parallel, the agreement establishes a Cloud Center of Excellence at AUS. This center will lead efforts to promote cloud adoption, develop governance frameworks, and guide digital transformation initiatives across the university. Through targeted activities, including training programs, best-practice frameworks, and knowledge-sharing platforms, the center aims to expand internal AWS expertise and align cloud initiatives with the university's long-term strategic goals.
AWS will also provide AUS with access to its technical experts and solutions architects, offering ongoing support to help design and optimize cloud environments that serve the university's research and academic needs. The collaboration includes AWS Immersion Days focused on AWS solutions related to research workflow enhancement, data analytics, cost optimization, and cloud security.
AWS-certified speakers will further engage with AUS through participation in on-campus research events. These events will highlight case studies, best practices, and explore the practical application of cloud technologies in research, helping AUS scholars connect innovation with real-world impact.
Dr. Steve Griffiths, Professor and Vice Chancellor for Research at AUS, added that the collaboration is foundational to the new research strategy being implemented at AUS. By integrating AWS cloud infrastructure into the research ecosystem, researchers can operate with greater agility, efficiency, and security, opening new possibilities for evolving the research agenda at AUS.
The AUS-AWS collaboration reflects a shared vision for empowering higher education through cloud technology and advancing research, innovation, and institutional excellence in the digital era. To learn more about AUS and its strategic initiatives, visit www.aus.edu.