FIT Innovation
The FedEx Institute of Technology (FIT) is the applied research arm of the University of Memphis and the home for emerging technology innovation in the Mid-South. Through FIT, FedEx leads our campus in advanced research efforts, functions as a catalyst for new ideas and guides the future of workforce development.
The FedEx Institute of Technology uses research to solve big challenges facing FedEx. Launched by the FIT in January 2021, the FRONTIERS program enables emerging technologies research engagement that aligns with FedEx goals and priorities by focusing on emerging technologies in major areas as outlined in the FedEx Investor Report, or other requested areas. This program directly supports FedEx’s innovation agenda by having faculty-led teams of UofM students tackle specific challenges for FedEx team members.
With our current cohort, we have projects serving the following FedEx Op-Cos:
Areas of Research include but are not limited to:
- Pricing
- Automation
- Processing Improvement
- Data Models
- Statistical Analysis
The University of Memphis and Epicenter have partnered to create a new program designed to hire post-doc fellows to start businesses, utilizing patented intellectual property developed both in Memphis and across the United States, to turn great ideas into successful companies. The Patents2Products Post-Doc program creates a two-year funded position for research entrepreneurs and provides them with the necessary tools for a launching a successful startup.
In early 2019, the FedEx Institute of Technology took another major step forward in
growing the innovative impact of economic engagement and development for our campus
and a new chapter for the University District began at 460 S. Highland St. Initially
developed by the FIT within the Division of Research and Innovation at the University
of Memphis, the UMRF Research Park was founded to preserve community spirit, amplify
opportunity and establish a center of creative empowerment and
emerging innovation. The park serves as an innovation hub to attract global talent
and enhance the community the University serves.
The FedEx Institute of Technology is an engine for innovation on the University of Memphis campus that is defined by the cultivation of independent and self-sustaining growth engines across our campus. The unique cooperative research environment that has sustained multiple innovative ideas and approaches is best known for UMRF Ventures. Working together with business leaders at FedEx this new model public-private partnership was born.
FedEx Roxo Bot Testing Site
The FedEx Institute of Technology worked with FedEx to bring autonomous last-mile delivery to the University of Memphis. Roxo, an autonomous delivery robot, along with the development teams from FedEx and DEKA Research and Development Corp.
