ANU vice-chancellor Professor Ian Chubb, who recently travelled to Indiana to signed the memorandum of cooperation, said he hoped the institute would forge an international reputation for expertise in Asia.

Both universities have strengths in Asian studies.

The ANU's expertise focuses on the Asia-Pacific, while Indiana University focuses on central Eurasia.

The institute will foster exchanges between the two universities of senior researchers, early career researchers, postgraduate and undergraduate students.

Professor Chubb said the universities would also explore joint degrees so students at ANU and Indiana could travel between the two universities for relevant courses.

''I think that would have tremendous appeal for students and I imagine they will get a much richer experience than they would based on what each university could offer on its own,'' he said.

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