WEST LAFAYETTE — Purdue University and automaker Chrysler Group are partnering in a program that will share research and development efforts and provide learning opportunities for Purdue students and Chrysler Group employees.

The agreement establishes seven initial Purdue research projects with $1.2 million in funding from Chrysler Group. The projects are designed to enhance the company's manufacturing processes. Also being developed are internship and co-op programs for Purdue students at Chrysler Group facilities in Kokomo and worldwide, and distance-education programs for the company's global employees.

Projects will expand to include Chrysler Group's new facility in Tipton as well as the Kokomo and Tipton communities. Purdue landscape architecture students already have done work on several plants, and interior design students will do indoor projects. Purdue students also are expected to complete service-learning programs with Kokomo high school students.