OU Researchers to Collaborate with South Korean Data Scientists

The University of Oklahoma and two South Korean institutes have signed memorandums of understanding to facilitate collaborative research to solve societal challenges in data science, data-enabled science, public policy and strategic communication, and to develop data science informed policy intervention for Asia-specific and global problems.

These agreements bring together faculty and student researchers from the University of Oklahoma, coordinated by the Data Institute for Societal Challenges, with those from the Moon Soul Graduate School of Future Strategy at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) and Sejong University.

The Moon Soul Graduate School of Future Strategy at KAIST, often referred to as the “MIT of South Korea,” has emerged as one of the most influential think tanks for South Korean society and government. Comprising experts from the fields of law, media, environment, management and future studies, the school plays a significant role in shaping the national agenda of the South Korean government both directly and indirectly.

Through this cooperative agreement, DISC and the Moon Soul Graduate School of Future Strategy at KAIST will establish a long-term partnership that will enable faculty and students to collaborate on research projects, course development and academic programs focused on data science and related public policy issues, foster opportunities for faculty and student exchanges, joint research projects and joint degree programs, and will seek sponsored research partnerships and grants to support their collaborative work.

“Partnering with KAIST is a great opportunity to collaborate to fulfill OU and DISC’s mission of solving global challenges with convergent research,” David Ebert, Ph.D., director of the Data Institute for Societal Challenges, said. “Designing solutions considering future challenges, opportunities and strategies will create robust, evolving solutions. Partnering with KAIST will foster a global perspective and provide global expertise.”

Sejong University shares the University of Oklahoma’s passion for research and creativity and has established its reputation as a leading research-oriented university in South Korea, Ebert added.

“Some of their core strategies are centered around fostering the field of future strategic research, including in artificial intelligence, information technology and educational and research convergence,” he said.

The memorandum of understanding with Sejong University will facilitate research collaboration between faculty and student researchers to solve societal challenges on topics such as environment, climate action, demography, urban traffic and living problems, low birth rate and aging populations, safety, good health and wellbeing. Additionally, faculty and student researchers from both universities will participate in sabbatical and research symposium opportunities and will create a scientific advisory board from proposal development to final report.

“We are excited to have Sejong as a strong partner and collaborator on difficult societal challenges. The collaboration will increase the expertise and create impactful solutions to these challenges,” Ebert said.