Monash University will today (Tuesday, November 26) launch a centre bringing together world-leading researchers in blockchain technology to push the frontiers of research in the rapidly expanding field.
The Monash Blockchain Technology Centre (MBTC) will be unveiled by the Dean of the Faculty of Information Technology (IT), Professor Jon Whittle, and MBTC Director and internationally-renowned blockchain expert Associate Professor Joseph Liu.
From fintech to supply chain management, the MBTC will develop secure foundations for this technology, and demonstrate its usability and practical outcomes. The centre will also positively impact the community through ground-breaking research involving a variety of industries and societal sectors.
The global blockchain market is forecast to grow to an estimated US$60 billion by 2024, and Australia has the capacity to play a leading role, according to Professor Whittle.
“Monash is the birthplace of big ideas in computing and IT. Through the MBTC, we can better educate people on how blockchain technology can be used to solve real-world challenges. The visionary research by Joseph and his team will bring us closer to realising its true potential,” he said.
Working with various faculties and international partners in the Asia-Pacific region, including Shanghai Jiao Tong University and CollinStar Capital, will also elevate the centre’s innovative work.
“We created the centre to be a platform for gathering like-minded organisations and faculties across the University, such as law, medicine, business and engineering. Cross-organisational and interdisciplinary collaborations will help us apply our innovations in a wider range of contexts,” Associate Professor Liu said.
Blockchain is currently being used in areas such as digital health services, supply chain management, and the delivery of energy across smart grids.
Through training and targeted micro-credentials, the MBTC will empower those leading the change – to enhance the efficiency, security and performance of blockchain technology.
ABOUT MONASH FACULTY OF IT
With the only dedicated IT faculty in the prestigious Group of Eight universities – and one of only a handful in the world – Monash embeds IT in every strategic research initiative across the University.
The Faculty of IT has a strong reputation for excellence in research. We have leading researchers in software engineering, cryptocurrency and blockchain, AI, optimisation and computer-human interaction, as well as the largest group of data scientists of any research institution in the southern hemisphere.
We contribute positively to society through interdisciplinary research and education, using innovative information technology as a vehicle for social good. It’s about sustainable impact, returning outcomes and taking part in the digital transformation of our world and our future.
ABOUT ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR JOSEPH LIU, MBTC DIRECTOR
A pioneer in his discipline, Joseph has played a critical role in creating the Linkable Ring Signature, which Monero – a cryptocurrency similar to Bitcoin – used to enhance the privacy of its transaction process.
ACS ICT ‘Researcher of the Year’*, Joseph continues to shape modern IT by pushing the boundaries in blockchain research.
*2018 ACS Digital Disruptor Awards
