PMI Science to Launch Multifunctional Research Center Within Engineering City of Armenia
In a significant stride towards advancing Armenia's research and development (R&D) landscape, PMI Science has announced the establishment of a multifunctional research center in the heart of Engineering City. This innovative hub, set to be the first international resident in the hub, is poised to boost Armenia's innovation ecosystem [1][3].
The center's purpose is to provide world-class facilities for research, development, and technology advancement. It will focus on four key areas: electronics, material science, aerosol research, and prototype development [3]. The center will also offer state-of-the-art laboratories and production facilities for the development of prototypes, and support for local researchers through funding and resource allocation [1].
The initiative, formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Philip Morris Armenia, the Enterprise Incubator Foundation, and the Engineering Association, aims to foster interdisciplinary research, knowledge sharing, and collaboration within the Engineering City environment [1][3]. The government of Armenia views this partnership as a model for public-private cooperation aimed at establishing the country as a leading global destination for R&D [1].
The event, which included a ceremonial awarding of funding certificates under the PMI Science Faculty Research Program 2025, was attended by Minister of High-Tech Industry of Armenia, Mkhitar Hayrapetyan. Minister Hayrapetyan highlighted the significance of the initiative and emphasised the importance of public-private collaboration in driving scientific and technological progress [1].
PMI Science will not only lease space but also contribute directly to the development of scientific infrastructure in the new R&D center [1]. The research center will be located in Engineering City's business accelerator building, providing it with a strategic position within the innovation hub.
The grants, part of the PMI Science Faculty Research Program 2025, are aimed at supporting the development of new ideas and the implementation of research projects across the country [1]. Minister Hayrapetyan and Luca Rossi, Country Manager of Philip Morris Armenia, presented $15,000 grants to representatives of Armenian universities and research institutions [1].
The Armenian government aims to transform the country into a globally significant R&D center, and this partnership with PMI Science is a step towards achieving this vision [1]. The signing of the MoU marks a milestone in this journey, and the new R&D center is set to play a pivotal role in Armenia's scientific and technological progress.
[1] "PMI Science Establishes Multifunctional Research Center in Armenia’s Engineering City." Armenpress. July 8, 2023. https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1102757.html [2] "Armenia and PMI Science Sign Memorandum of Understanding for New Research Center." Philip Morris International. July 8, 2023. https://www.pmi.com/news/press-releases/armenia-and-pmi-science-sign-memorandum-of-understanding-for-new-research-center.html [3] "PMI Science to Establish Research Center in Armenia." Enterprise Incubator Foundation. July 8, 2023. https://www.eif.am/en/news/pmi-science-to-establish-research-center-in-armenia/
- The multifunctional research center established by PMI Science in Armenia's Engineering City will emphasize innovation by focusing on electronics, material science, aerosol research, and prototype development, intertwining science, technology, and art in its research endeavors.
- The new research center, equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and production facilities, will foster interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing, boosting Armenia's innovation ecosystem and technological advancement.
- The partnership between PMI Science, the government of Armenia, and local research institutions demonstrates a commitment to fostering public-private collaboration, with the ultimate goal of transforming Armenia into a globally significant center for science, innovation, and technology.
