Sustainable Horizons in Future Technologies Network
Our Vision
The Sustainable Horizons in Future Technologies (SHIFT) network is committed to fostering a global community of leading digital labs and centers, dedicated to pioneering research and innovation in digital technologies such as generative AI, big data analytics, VR and AR, robotics and advanced algorithms. The name “SHIFT” not only encapsulates our commitment to innovation and forward-thinking in the realm of future technologies, but also represents a balance between sustainability and technological advancement. The term “Horizons” in our name reflects our global outlook and our dedication to exploring new possibilities worldwide. The acronym “SHIFT” symbolises the dynamic change and progress that we aim to drive in the field of innovation.
Our mission is to cultivate a collaborative network that promotes the development of advanced technologies that are environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially equitable. Our vision is a world where technological progress aligns with sustainable development goals, fostering a future where innovation thrives for social good.
Meet the Co-Founders
The Ways We Collaborate
1. SHIFT Visiting Scholar Program
The SHIFT Visiting Scholar Program is designed to foster the exchange of cutting-edge research and technological advancements across the full spectrum of digital technologies. The program supports scholars engaging in interdisciplinary initiatives. The main objectives of this program are 1) Promote the exchange of knowledge and expertise in advanced digital technologies, 2) promote collaborative research and development projects across institutions, and 3) provide opportunities for scholars to leverage unique equipment and resources not available in their home labs.
2. Joint Funding Applications
The SHIFT network is set to lead the way in securing joint funding by tapping into the collective knowledge and research power of its member institutions. The strategy revolves around obtaining substantial financial support for ambitious projects that span an array of disciplines. This collaborative approach is dedicated to driving the progress of large-scale projects and bolstering the development of shared infrastructure critical to these fields.
To meet its objectives, the network aims to broaden the funding scope, reaching beyond sustainable technologies to include a variety of digital technology projects. By consolidating the specialized expertise present within its ranks, SHIFT will craft compelling funding proposals that demonstrate a deep understanding of the complexities inherent in modern technologies. Another key objective is to distribute the administrative load of grant applications and management. A network-wide support structure will be established to reduce the burden on individual institutions, thereby enhancing efficiency and focus on innovation.
3. Annual Events/Conferences
The SHIFT network’s annual events and conferences are designed to be central forums for sharing and exchanging a wealth of digital technology research and innovations. These events are envisioned as key catalysts for technological advancement, community building, and the promotion of collaborative engagement within the network. The concept behind these gatherings is to not only showcase sustainable technologies but also to highlight the diverse range of advanced digital fields that SHIFT encompasses.