“Whether through research collaborations, talent development or new initiatives, Purdue Research Foundation is your gateway to innovation and success.” With this statement at a formal agreement signing in Taiwan, Purdue Research Foundation (PRF) President & CEO Chad Pittman underscored a bold beginning to his tenure, highlighting PRF as a pivotal conduit for research collaborations, talent development and groundbreaking initiatives.
Pittman was announced as the next president & CEO of PRF in late 2024.
Pittman signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Taipei Language Institute (TLI), building on over seven decades of collaboration between Purdue University and Taiwan. Recognizing the mutual goals of fostering global talent, driving innovation, and advancing education, TLI and PRF agree to collaborate on initiatives that align with their missions to support talent development and cross-cultural exchange. The agreement is also an opportunity to enhance collaboration, expand new workforce and industry partnerships, and encourage educational exchange between both organizations.
“Language is more than words — it is the bridge that connects cultures, builds trust and fosters innovation,” said Jason Ho, president & CEO of Taipei Language Institute. “At TLI, we believe that true leadership comes from investing in people, unlocking hidden potential and forging global alliances that transcend boundaries. This is just the beginning.”
Pittman’s strategic visit to Taiwan also included meetings and a dinner reception with Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te and Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim.
The international trip marks a decisive start for President Pittman’s tenure, reflecting his strategic mission to continue Purdue’s status as a global expert for sectors of national and international importance. Pittman’s extensive network spans the international, military, and economic development sectors, positioning PRF to continue cultivating transformative partnerships and opportunities for Purdue.
“This partnership between TLI and PRF represents a unique convergence of education, innovation and global collaboration,” Pittman said. “We are setting the stage for transformative opportunities that will drive global talent development and economic growth. Taiwan and the U.S. are natural partners in addressing the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, and this alliance will further strengthen those ties.”
Pittman has a proven track record of securing economic investments and research partnerships as well as extensive national security experience. His broad expertise will bolster PRF’s world-class research centers, commercialization expertise and exceptional talent pipeline as they support transformative partnerships in fields such as semiconductors, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy. With increased partnership comes increased opportunities for students and partners embedded in the Purdue ecosystem.
International partnerships have become a hallmark of excellence for Purdue and with the signing of this most recent MOU, Pittman reaffirms his commitment to building opportunities for Purdue-driven talent and innovation. Pittman’s expertise and Purdue’s research and excellence at scale promise an unprecedented level of global collaboration unfolding in coming years.
About Purdue Research Foundation
Purdue Research Foundation is a private, nonprofit foundation created to advance the mission of Purdue University. Established in 1930, the foundation accepts gifts; administers trusts; funds scholarships and grants; acquires and sells property; protects and licenses Purdue’s intellectual property; and supports creating Purdue-connected startups on behalf of Purdue. The foundation operates Purdue Innovates, which includes the Office of Technology Commercialization and Incubator. The foundation manages Purdue Strategic Ventures, Purdue Research Park, Discovery Park District, Purdue Technology Centers and Purdue for Life Foundation.
For more information on licensing a Purdue innovation, contact the Office of Technology Commercialization at otcip@prf.org. For more information about involvement and investment opportunities in startups based on a Purdue innovation, contact Purdue Innovates at purdueinnovates@prf.org.
Media contact: Alicia South-Hurt, absouth-hurt@prf.org
