Computing lab opens at UCC
A state-of-the-art design lab was opened in UCC this week which will boost Cork’s position as a tech hub.
The very latest technology has been used in the electronic design automation lab which has been officially opened by Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney TD.
Electronic design automation helps product companies achieve more complex chips used in consumer electronics such as mobile phones, laptops, game consoles, with a lower cost, and shorter time to market.
UCC plays an important role in Ireland's knowledge economy and enjoys close relationships with several world leading companies based in Cork, primarily in the biotech, pharma, and ICT sectors. The new lab facilities at the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Building are supported by Cork-based multinational Qualcomm Ireland, and will enhance the student learning experience, providing advanced technologies that will inspire future innovators to drive progress.
Qualcomm’s support has been added to the development of engineering education and leading-edge research at the university. The company, which designs and builds microelectronic chips that power the most advanced mobile devices, established an office in Cork in 2013.
Since then, Qualcomm has engaged in significant collaboration with UCC, funding events such as the first Lego League - a robotics and engineering competition for young people, partnering in student initiatives, as well as supporting innovative research, and sponsoring equipment at the School of Engineering and Architecture.
Minister Coveney said: “This recent refurbishment will serve as a valuable tool for supporting the future engineers to tackle big global challenges. I want to acknowledge the role UCC plays in future proofing Ireland’s knowledge-based economy. UCC is Ireland’s leading university for industry engagement and research income – this dynamic energy attracts international employers to Cork and the Munster region.
“It is fantastic to see connected thinking and close links with industry. It is great to see the close and reciprocal relationship as evidenced by Qualcomm’s generous philanthropic multi-year support to electrical engineering. We hope to see this trend continue as their technological hub in Cork continues to grow,” he said.
UCC President Professor John O’Halloran said: “UCC's Electrical Engineering graduates are in high demand globally. Students benefit from our research intensive relevant, dynamic, and inclusive learning experience. This lab refurbishment was kindly made possible through a generous philanthropic gift from Qualcomm who hire many of our UCC engineers in their growing offices in Cork.
“We are delighted that this will enable our students to benefit from well-equipped laboratories and the latest software. We hope this gives them the tools to enable them to translate their research and knowledge into innovative and sustainable solutions that deliver impact in real-world contexts.”
Anne-Marie Tierney Le Roux, Department Manager, Technology Division IDA Ireland said: “Qualcomm’s commitment to Ireland is evident from its continued growth and expansion in Cork where it now employs 500 people. This commitment continues with the announcement of its ongoing partnership with UCC, where the next generation of graduates will benefit from state-of the-art facilities and technologies.”
Qualcomm Ireland currently employs over 500 people in Cork, with over 45 UCC engineering graduates currently working at the company. The majority of Qualcomm’s Ireland management team are UCC graduates, who continue to lead teams at the Cork site to new levels of world-class research and development.