Blockchain, a leading software platform for digital assets, has announced that it entering into a partnership with Imperial College London to launch the Digital Asset Research Lab.

According to the official release, the lab has been funded as part of a three-year partnership with the Centre for Cryptocurrency Research and Engineering (IC3RE) at Imperial. The partnership has been designed to build the leading international centre for ongoing research and application activity related to cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. 

“As digital assets mature and we see increased adoption, the time has come to investigate the challenges surrounding this nascent but transformative technology. Blockchain is the perfect partner to help us realize that ambition,” said Professor William Knottenbelt, Director of IC3RE. “We look forward to working with Blockchain CEO Peter Smith and the team.”

Smith will join the lab’s Steering Committee and will be responsible for identifying and deciding priority areas for research and prototyping. The Steering Committee will meet twice a year to review, consider, and approve potential projects as well as oversee the performance of current projects.

“Exponential technologies have incredible impacts on our society. They re-imagine the world in ways that inspire and surprise us. Every year, from transaction growth, to new users coming online, the bitcoin network, and the blockchain have been doubling in size,” said Smith. “We’re excited to be at the leading edge of research to understand this technology’s impact on the broader world.” 

Blockchain said that it chose Imperial for the partnership as the firm is committed to encouraging and supporting the next generation of blockchain developers.

“Imperial graduate students are among the best in the world and Blockchain is excited to join to help them shape the future,” continued Smith.

Initial research projects are likely to focus on smart contracts and state channels, the release said.