University Blockchain Research Initiative
The University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI) is an initiative launched by Ripple; a globally recognized blockchain-based digital payment network. Launched in 2018, UBRI has been central to Ripple’s efforts to stimulate research and development (R&D) in the blockchain industry. UBRI achieves this by forming partnerships with leading universities across the globe, providing funding and resources that support blockchain-related research projects. Its broader mission lies in fostering student engagement and driving critical blockchain R&D in academia.
Project Status: Ongoing
Start date: 1 April 2019
End date: 31 Dec 2026
Funded by: Ripple’s Impact Fund, an advised fund of Silicon Valley Community Foundation
Total grant: $1,578,000.00
What is UBRI?
The University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI) is an initiative launched by Ripple; a globally recognized blockchain-based digital payment network. Launched in 2018, UBRI has been central to Ripple’s efforts to stimulate research and development (R&D) in the blockchain industry. UBRI achieves this by forming partnerships with leading universities across the globe, providing funding and resources that support blockchain-related research projects. Its broader mission lies in fostering student engagement and driving critical blockchain R&D in academia.
The relationship between the University of Nicosia and UBRI
The partnership between the UBRI and the University of Nicosia (UNIC) represents a symbiotic relationship grounded in the blockchain and cryptocurrency space. UNIC, recognized as a pioneer institution in blockchain research and learning, finds in UBRI a strong partner to promote this mission. UBRI supports UNIC’s pioneering initiatives by funding activities that systematically advance blockchain initiatives within the academic community. This partnership further manifests in events, such as the XRPL Hackathon hosted by UNIC, and blockchain technology-related courses, and blockchain research.
UBRI Grants
to the University of Nicosia
UBRI has awarded two significant grants to the University of Nicosia with the goal of promoting learning, research, and innovation in the fields of blockchain, cryptocurrency, and other related transformative industries.
Grant 01 – Academic, Research and Outreach Activities
This grant focuses on supporting:
Post-doctorate Research Fellowships: Funding for scholars undertaking advanced research in the fields of blockchain, cryptocurrency, and related subjects.
MSc Student Scholarships: Master’s degree scholarships, awarded to a deserving student pursuing studies related to blockchain.
Validator Establishment and Maintenance: Funding to establish and maintain a validator which is used for both research-based and project-based learning.
Grant 02 – Curriculum, Research, Project, and Action-based Learning Activities
This grant is designed to advance faculty and student engagement, technical development, innovation, knowledge sharing, thought leadership, and convening in blockchain, cryptocurrency, FinTech and related subjects. The grant’s funding highlights include:
Hosting a Validator Node: The university uses this grant to maintain the validator node.
Supporting Research Activities: Funding for research-related activities designed to advance the understanding and application of blockchain technologies.
Enhancing Curriculum: The grant helps faculty to develop and improve blockchain related courses.
THE UNIVERSITY OF NICOSIA’S
Contributions to UBRI
The University of Nicosia has made significant contributions to the University Blockchain Research Initiative through various initiatives and research activities:
Supporting the Ripple Network: UNIC runs a validator node that is part of the Unique Node List (UNL), thereby supporting the Ripple network.
Hosting UBRI-Supported Events: UNIC hosts events supported by UBRI, such as the XRPL Hackathon. These events provide a platform to showcase and promote blockchain initiatives.
Offering Blockchain Courses: UNIC offers dedicated blockchain courses, including the MSc in Digital Currency and Blockchain and a Metaverse-focused MSc in Digital Currency. These courses are supported partially by grants from UBRI.
Providing Scholarship Support: With the support of UBRI, UNIC provides scholarships to MSc students and post-doctoral fellows. This financial support enables deserving students and researchers to pursue their studies and research in blockchain technology.
Conducting Blockchain Research: Ripple fellows at UNIC are at the forefront of leading-edge research in blockchain technology. This research is instrumental in advancing the understanding and application of blockchain technology.
Developing the Blockchain Benchmarking Framework: UNIC has developed the “Blockchain Benchmarking Framework,” a pioneering piece of research that supports the broader understanding and application of blockchain technology.
In summary, UNIC’s involvement with UBRI has resulted in a broad array of blockchain initiatives, research, and educational opportunities. This underscores their shared commitment to advancing blockchain technology.
