LSU and Hyundai Steel inked a Master Research Agreement in collaboration with its $5.8 billion steel mill scheduled to open in Ascension Parish in 2029. LSU Assistant Vice Chancellor of Research Partnerships Greg Trahan says the agreement isn’t just for one project; it’s for all of them.
“Hyundai comes and says, ‘I would like to make a material that has these properties.’ LSU has an opportunity to work on that directly with Hyundai, including our students; work on these research projects,” Trahan said.
The agreement will allow Hyundai Steel and LSU to collaborate on whatever research opportunities the company may encounter. Trahan says the agreement gives Hyundai access to LSU’s research personnel and resources.
“Think about everything LSU can do in terms of research. What would happen if you were to give a company, like Hyundai, access to that and say, ‘What sorts of problems would you like to solve?’ It means that this allows research projects in every academic discipline,” Trahan explained.
Trahan says the research agreement is unlike any LSU has ever signed. It clears up any potential patent disputes upfront and allows for quick action and scientific advancement. He says it’s not just about a single investment or project, but a new way to work with a company.
“Let’s go ahead and serve, in some ways, as an extension or a compliment to what you’re already doing in your research. And the end result of that will absolutely be an advancement of science, of engineering, of innovation and of talent development,” Trahan said.
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