Columbia University took a major step forward this week in expanding its involvement in one of today’s hottest new technologies—blockchain. The University and IBM announced the establishment of the Columbia-IBM Center for Blockchain and Data Transparency that will include an innovation accelerator for students, faculty and members of the startup community.
With a focus on research, education, and innovation in blockchain technology and data transparency, the Center will leverage Columbia’s academic strengths in data science, engineering, business and law in partnership with IBM’s extensive expertise in technology Research and Development. IBM also brings specialized knowledge gained through their global base of enterprise clients.
“Through this partnership, we will significantly advance scholarship and applications of data-sharing and data-transparency technologies. The new Center further solidifies New York City as a hub for technical innovation,” says John H. Coatsworth, Columbia University Provost in a press statement.
The collaboration will lead to cross-disciplinary teams from the academic, scientific, business and government communities. Those teams will explore issues related to the policy, trust, sharing and consumption of digital data when using blockchain, as well as other privacy-preserving technologies.
The Center’s core areas will include:
- Pursuing new research and timely scientific breakthroughs in the areas of data transparency and blockchain across industries.
- Establishing technology capabilities incorporating blockchain in new ways.
- Being engaged and advising policy and regulation emanating for trusted blockchain and data transparency practices.
- Seeking innovative solutions that responsibly balance regulatory and data ownership issues with new data monetization models.
- Conducting education and internships that support and expand professional skills in blockchain and data transparency.
Columbia University and IBM have particular strengths that in combination will yield a pipeline of skills, talent and innovation needed in these technology areas. This will aid industries with new ideas and capabilities, resulting in the creation of new business models, services, and policies.
“Our work with clients has shown that blockchain can benefit industries and with that comes a responsibility to deploy it in ways that will foster greater trust and transparency in data,” said Arvind Krishna, senior vice president of Hybrid Cloud and director of IBM Research.
Next steps include a steering committee consisting of Columbia faculty and academic leaders and IBM Research scientists and business leaders and a formal call for proposals for curriculum development, business initiatives and research programs that is expected later in the year.
