The University of Twente and ProRail have signed a new cooperation agreement. Together, they will launch several new initiatives in the coming period, which should lead to innovative solutions to issues in the daily practice of the operator of the Dutch railway network.
ProRail and the University of Twente have worked together successfully for many years. Recently, for example, in projects such as FORMASIG and SIRA. The latter project deals with system integration, an essential theme in the railway sector, given the wide variety of systems used by various parties involved.
Broad programme
A broad programme-based approach has been adopted in the cooperation. The focus is not only on technology, but also on processes and the human side of applying technology. On topics such as design and management of assets, digitalisation, sustainability, human factors and innovation and transition management, further opportunities for cooperation are being explored. This may lead to several new projects in which researchers and students from different scientific disciplines collaborate.
A good example of how forces are being combined is in projects within the new European programme Europe's Rail Joint Undertaking (ERJU). In it, various European organisations involved in the management and operation of the rail network within Europe work together with knowledge institutions, among others, in developing innovative technologies and accelerating the implementation of promising operational solutions.
Next step
"This alliance agreement is a great next step in our cooperation with ProRail," says Geert Dewulf, Chief Development Officer and Director of Strategic Business Development (SBD) at the University of Twente. "As UT, we have in-house knowledge in various fields that matches the issues ProRail is facing. By contributing to finding solutions, scientific research translates directly into societal impact."
