University of Arizona President Ann Weaver Hart announced a partnership between Uber and the UA in a press release Tuesday.

In the press release, Hart stated that she met with Gov. Doug Ducey, Rep. Martha McSally, and Vice President of Advanced Technologies for Uber Technologies Brian McClendon.

“Uber and the UA have agreed to work together on educational, workforce development, and research efforts in optics, engineering, and education for the benefit of both parties and for that of Southern Arizona,” Hart stated in the press release.

Hart stated in the press release that “common areas of interest and expertise include mapping, and autonomous or ‘self-driving’ technology.”

According to the press release, Uber will work with the UA specifically on a scholarship program within the College of Optical Sciences.

“This is a very exciting new partnership, and I am so very glad that the UA’s global research leadership and commitment to innovation allows us to join in a collaborative effort that will have great benefit for this state,” Hart stated in the press release.

Hart acknowledged Ducey’s support of the new partnership between the UA and Uber.

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