IIT Madras and Deakin University, Australia, have announced the launch of the IIT Madras Deakin University Research Academy.

Through collaborative global research projects, joint supervision and meritorious scholarships, this visionary academy will nurture several highly talented graduate research scholars, representing SAARC and ASEAN countries, ready to address and solve pressing global challenges.

The announcement was made during the Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet at Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and was welcomed by Sarah Kirlew, Australian Consul General, Chennai.

Commenting on this partnership between two premier institutions, Sarah Kirlew said, “Knowledge, education and research partnerships are a crucial pillar of the Australia-India relationship. We are proud that Australia has more collaborations with IIT Madras than it has with any other country."

"Deakin and IIT Madras have a longstanding partnership and we congratulate them on this significant next step which will generate further cutting-edge research in topics of crucial global importance, including clean energy solutions," she added.

The research scholars will pioneer solutions through cutting-edge research in areas of strategic importance to Australia and India encompassing clean energy, critical technologies, sustainability, climate change, healthcare technologies and more, contributing to the socio-economic goals of both nations at a global level.

Addressing a press conference on the campus today, Professor V Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, “IIT Madras envisions integration of innovation, collaboration, and responsible practices to create a sustainable future for the generations to come."

"Through this academy, IIT Madras will partner with Deakin to build upon its technical and research expertise and environmental stewardship and social responsibility action plan to emerge as a leader for sustainability teaching and research in the global south. I look forward to the far-reaching positive outcomes that this academy is sure to generate," he added.

Speaking at the launch event, Professor Iain Martin, Vice-Chancellor, Deakin University, said, “With the launch of the IITM Deakin University Research Academy, we shall further strengthen the synergy already achieved between our institutions by continuously exceeding excellence through collaborative research in areas of strategic importance."

"The academy will help leverage Deakin’s strengths of working with industry for optimum research and development in critical areas of smart and sustainable technologies," he added.

FOUR-YEAR JOINT PhD

Building on over a decade-long collaboration between Deakin University and IIT Madras, the research academy will offer a four-year joint PhD programme with high-value scholarships, joint supervision by esteemed faculty from both institutions and access to world-class research facilities and resources.

The research academy will also provide for participation in an open innovation ecosystem and research network and the opportunity for collaboration with top industry partners in India and Australia.