Scholars from UEH Institute of Business Research and Vrije Universiteit Brussel forge strategic partnership to advance global research
05/07/2025
The Institute of Business Research (IBR) is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Professor Antonio Calcara, the Director of the Geopolitics and Technology Program at the prestigious Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB). Following a productive meeting, IBR and Professor Calcara have agreed to jointly develop and apply for an international research grant, marking a significant step in strengthening global academic ties. This initiative is poised to enhance the scholarly reputation of both institutions and foster high-impact, interdisciplinary research.
This collaboration brings together IBR with one of Europe's leading academic voices. Located in the heart of Europe, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a top-tier research university, consistently ranked among the best in the world (ranked 201-250th by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025). VUB is renowned for its high academic standards and open, inquiring mindset, particularly in social sciences, public policy, and technology. Professor Antonio Calcara is a leading scholar in international relations, whose work on the complex interplay between emerging technologies, global security, and geopolitical competition is highly influential among academics and policymakers.

This partnership perfectly aligns with the mission of the Institute of Business Research and enriches our already robust network of global partners. As a key research unit within the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH), IBR already has deep collaborative ties with many of the world's top universities, including Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, and the University of Leicester, UK, as well as numerous leading scientists through joint research and training programs. Operating under the "excellent research institute" model, IBR has a proven track record of successfully leading and participating in a wide array of research projects, from international collaborations and state-level grants to applied consulting projects for businesses and government agencies.
This venture with VUB and Professor Calcara exemplifies our unwavering commitment to internationalization and the pursuit of cutting-edge research. We believe that addressing the world's most significant challenges requires cross-border and interdisciplinary cooperation. The Institute of Business Research is actively seeking and warmly welcomes collaboration with international partners, scholars, and institutions to co-create knowledge and deliver a lasting, positive impact on society.