AUS and Amazon Web Services Partner to Advance Cloud Research

The American University of Sharjah (AUS) has entered into a strategic collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to enhance its research capabilities and fast-track the use of advanced cloud technologies across the university. This partnership aims to modernize AUS’s digital infrastructure and foster greater cloud literacy among students, faculty, and staff.

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, commented on the significance of the agreement: “This agreement positions AUS at the forefront of cloud-powered research and academic innovation. By working closely with AWS, we are creating an ecosystem that enables our faculty and students to engage with the world’s most advanced technologies and apply them to the challenges of today and tomorrow. This is a strategic investment in our academic mission, institutional capacity and regional impact.”

Establishing a Cloud Center of Excellence

A central part of this initiative is the creation of a Cloud Center of Excellence at AUS. This center will spearhead the university’s cloud transformation by developing governance models, promoting best practices, and guiding strategic digital initiatives. It will also focus on building internal expertise through specialized training programs, knowledge-sharing platforms, and frameworks tailored to AUS’s long-term goals.

Technical Expertise and Cloud Optimization Support

Through the collaboration, AWS will offer AUS direct access to its cloud specialists and solutions architects. These experts will provide hands-on support in designing, managing, and optimizing cloud environments tailored to both research and academic workflows. The initiative will include AWS Immersion Days to showcase key technologies related to data analytics, research efficiency, cost management, and cybersecurity.

On-Campus Engagement and Research Integration

AWS-certified professionals will also participate in AUS-hosted research events, sharing case studies and practical insights into cloud technology applications. These engagements aim to bridge the gap between cloud-based innovation and real-world research challenges, helping faculty and students turn ideas into impactful solutions.

Dr. Steve Griffiths, Professor and Vice Chancellor for Research at AUS, added: “This collaboration is foundational to the new research strategy being implemented at AUS. By integrating AWS cloud infrastructure into our research ecosystem, we are enabling our researchers to operate with greater agility, efficiency and security. It opens up new possibilities for how we evolve the research agenda at AUS.”

A Shared Commitment to Future-Ready Education

This partnership reflects a mutual commitment by AUS and AWS to empower higher education through cutting-edge cloud solutions. Together, they aim to elevate the university’s research ecosystem, drive innovation, and support excellence in the digital age.