IBM lab to be set up in Melbourne

IBM will establish a world-first global research and development laboratory at the University of Melbourne.

The new centre, which will be created with the support of the Gillard and Brumby governments, will be the first IBM global research and development laboratory anywhere in the world.

The centre will employ 150 staff and PhD students to help solve some of the biggest challenges facing the globe, and will also seek to solve problems of the future that haven't even affected us yet.

The laboratory will be located at the University of Melbourne where researchers can work side by side to help tackle international issues such as managing natural disasters, using our natural resources efficiently, fighting disease, boosting agricultural yields and harnessing the power of biotechnology.

The project further cements Victoria's reputation as the information and communications technology capital of Australia following the National Broadband Network's decision to build its hub in Melbourne and the release of the government's $110 million ICT strategy.