Ericsson Canada, Carleton Extend 5G Innovation Partnership

Telecom network equipment provider Ericsson Canada said it is extending an existing partnership with Ottawa-based Carleton University that aims to advance wireless technology, develop skilled talent, and build secure and reliable 5G communications networks.

In an announcement, Ericsson Canada and Carleton University said they were extending their partnership through the end of 2026.

The Ericsson-Carleton University Partnership for Research and Leadership in Wireless Networks began in early 2020, and since then has led to significant strides in applied research, student development, and the advancement of 5G wireless communications technology through the Ericsson-Carleton 5G Wireless Lab.

The renewed collaboration will continue to support existing wireless research initiatives and launch new areas of exploration aimed at achieving mutual benefits for both Ericsson and the university.

“The collaboration between Ericsson and Carleton University is a prime example of the positive impact industry-academia collaborations can have on society and the economy in Canada and beyond,” said Rafik Goubran, Vice President, Research and International at Carleton University.

“We are proud of our progress and anticipate much more to come as we continue to explore novel 5G applications in health care, transportation and aerospace,” Goubran said.

The partnership has already produced a number of achievements, including the creation of an Ericsson Chair in 5G Wireless Research, 12 graduate research projects, and over 700 co-op work terms for Carleton students.

It also resulted in the opening of Canada’s first private standalone 5G wireless network and the establishment of a dedicated 5G Drone Lab.

Other highlights include the Ericsson-funded graduate fellowship program and participation in Carleton’s Women in Engineering and IT Program, which aims to reduce the gender gap in STEM fields.

“Our shared goal of advancing innovative wireless communications solutions continues to drive us forward,” said Marcos Cavaletti, who directs Ericsson’s Ottawa site. “Today’s extension announcement solidifies years of mobile wireless exploration together to harness the potential of advancing connectivity across the globe.”