NEC opens first Advanced Centre for Experimentation in S'pore; hiring 50 researchers and engineers

INFORMATION technology (IT) and network technology solutions company NEC Corporation opened its first Advanced Centre for Experimentation (ACE) in Singapore on Thursday, and will be hiring 50 researchers and solution engineers in the next three years.

Operated by NEC Laboratories Singapore (NLS), the facility aims to facilitate the company's global research and development (R&D) capabilities. It allows co-creation of solutions and provides a "living lab" for proof-of-concepts for advanced solutions in areas such as public safety, transportation and health care.

The ACE leverages NEC's core technologies and advanced solutions, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and information and communication technology (ICT) platforms, to create a "smarter living environment for people and communities".

In conjunction with the opening, NLS - currently staffed with 33 researchers/solution engineers - will hire an additional 50 within the next three years. They will mainly specialise in AI, the Internet of Things, cognition and cyber security.

Tung Meng Fai, director, infocomms and media, Singapore Economic Development Board, said: "This investment by NEC is a strong testament of Singapore's talent pool and innovation capabilities to drive the digital transformation of industries. The ACE will enrich Singapore's digital ecosystem, and will foster new partnerships for the co-creation and commercialisation of new solutions from Singapore."