In an effort to promote "joint research and development activities of mutual interest and benefit in the area of artificial intelligence technologies," Chiang Mai University (CMU) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with IBM to participate in the IBM-NUS Research and Innovation Centre. CMU intends work through the Centre to explore collaborations in Artificial Intelligence (Al) with emphasis on how to establish a cutting-edge Al-centric compute infrastructure, as well as establish an innovation agenda that aims to build Thailand's advanced AI ecosystem.
CMU also signed an MOU with IBM to begin the process of joining the IBM Quantum Network. CMU would be a member of the IBM Quantum Innovation Centre at the National University of Singapore (NUS), which would provide cloud access to IBM quantum computers and resources for research and workforce development.
Another MOU signed between CMU and NUS in August 2025, provides opportunities for this joint research and development, and the sharing of best practices and co-innovation on next-generation AI and quantum technologies.
These MOUs pave the way for NUS and CMU to explore the co-development of research initiatives by leveraging IBM's infrastructure for their joint research that align with regional priorities and institutional strengths in the areas of AI and quantum computing to address the pressing challenges like climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and public health of this region.
The efforts between the three parties demonstrate a shared commitment to joint research, strengthening the ecosystem, and talent development, marking a significant step forward in advancing AI and quantum computing innovation in Singapore and Thailand.
Driving Next-Generation AI Innovation
The MOU between IBM and CMU signed for CMU's participation in the IBM-NUS Research & Innovation Centre includes plans to harness cutting-edge AI infrastructure powered by prototype IBM Spyre Accelerators, part of IBM Research's AIU ((Artificial Intelligence Unit) family.
This full technology stack-combining state-of-the-art AI software, systems, and accelerators-will enable the efficient tuning and inferencing of fine-tuned models (FMs).
The intent is for CMU to democratise AI across the Thailand ecosystem by driving lower-cost AI solutions to expand accessibility and help bridge the digital divide. It also aims to address pressing regional challenges, such as developing AI-powered geospatial models tailored for Thailand to tackle natural disasters, air pollution (PM 2.5) and flooding.
The MOU between CMU and NUS also outlines how the universities will explore how to advance quantum computing research and innovation. And through its MOU with IBM, CMU intends to join the IBM Quantum Network as a member of NUS' IBM Quantum Innovation Centre, which gives CMU access to IBM's fleet of cloud-based quantum computers and resources.
These agreements provide opportunities for joint research and development, the sharing of best practices and co-innovation on next-generation AI and quantum technologies, plans to further explore the integration of AI and quantum capabilities and applying advanced technologies across the FM technology stack to unlock breakthrough applications.
Building Future-Ready Skills and Ecosystems
Through the IBM-NUS Research and Innovation Centre and the IBM Quantum Innovation Centre at NUS, hands-on training and research engagements in AI and quantum computing are being planned to help equip the next generation of CMU's innovators.
The proposed collaborations underscore the shared vision of fostering a robust AI and quantum ecosystem in Thailand, with ripple effects across ASEAN. By combining leading-edge technologies with research, education, and cross-industry collaboration, NUS and CMU aim to empower organisations, researchers, and policymakers to harness emerging technologies for long-term competitive and societal benefit.
Professor Tan Eng Chye, President of NUS, said: "NUS is delighted to partner Chiang Mai University and IBM to advance AI and quantum science through open, collaborative research, while developing the talent and resources essential for the region's growth. Working together, we aim to strengthen regional cooperation - including with leading universities in the ASEAN University Network - and translate cutting-edge research into practical, powerful solutions for real world problems. Sustainability is a key priority for NUS, and a particularly exciting focus of this strategic collaboration will be leveraging foundation models to address challenges from climate change to disaster management. We look forward to working closely with Chiang Mai University and IBM to deliver tangible impact for society and industry across ASEAN.
Professor Pongruk Sribanditmongkol, President of CMU, stated, "This proposed collaboration with NUS marks a major leap for Chiang Mai University in elevating our research and innovation capabilities to the global stage. IBM's quantum technology and AI will be important elements of this future development with NUS. This plans as outlined in the MOUs will not only enable our researchers and students to work with experts and access cutting-edge technologies, but also establish a solid foundation for Thailand to become a leader in deep technology within the region. We are committed to producing high-quality research and graduates who can drive the nation forward."
Catherine Lian, General Manager and Technology Leader, IBM ASEAN, said, "This proposed relationship between IBM and CMU reflects our commitment to responsible innovation that accelerate progress and empower innovators. By combining world-class research with local talent development, we would be bringing this capability to Thailand through the NUS-CMU partnership, fostering the next breakthroughs in AI-driven and quantum-enabled solutions that would be designed to directly support the region's competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability."
