NYU Abu Dhabi has partnered with one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United Arab Emirates to expand programming in wireless technology, allowing students and faculty to contribute research on the up-and-coming cellular technology. 

The Emirati company, e&, will collaborate with NYU Wireless, a research center in the Tandon School of Engineering focused on wireless communication technology, to drive research into 6G signals. As part of the initiative, students will also have access to hands-on research opportunities, internships and industry mentorship. 

“We are delighted to partner with e& to push the boundaries of innovation in 6G technology, positioning our academic community as pioneers in next-generation connectivity,” NYU Abu Dhabi Provost Arlie Petters said in the press release. “We are creating a dynamic hub where cutting-edge research meets bold ideas, empowering our students and faculty to shape the future of communication and redefine what’s possible in the world of technology.” 

Once developed, 6G technology will be able to process data up to 20 times faster than 5G cellular technology. Companies worldwide — including e&, Nokia and Apple — are developing 6G in tandem with artificial intelligence to improve areas such as data storage, location awareness and energy efficiency. 

Last month, Tandon also received a $10 million grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to advance wireless systems. The project, titled SALSA — Spectrally Agile Large-Scale Arrays — aims to expand high-speed cellular connection in upper mid-band frequencies, supporting 6G development and creating reliable communication systems. 

Other universities are also focusing on advancing 6G technology, including Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, which launched a 6G research center in 2023 to explore artificial intelligence, localization, sensing and broadband connectivity. In 2021, the University of Texas also launched a new research center with projects to develop wireless algorithms, networking innovations and sensing technologies. 

“Investing in advanced technologies like 6G is important, but what truly matters is supporting the brilliant minds that will shape its future,” Ali Al Mansoori, the group chief people officer at e&, said in the press release. “This partnership is about more than preparing youth for the digital age — we’re inviting them to build it.”

Contact Vaishnavi Girish at [email protected].