Iit-madras-sets-up-15-centres-of-excellence

Iit-madras-sets-up-15-centres-of-excellence

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) has launched fifteen ‘Centres of Excellence’ as part of the ‘Institute of Eminence’ Scheme. The centres will work extensively on undertaking cutting-edge research to develop next-generation technologies and create an impact not just in India but also globally.

The Government of India launched the ‘Institute of Eminence’ (IoE) Scheme, to empower higher educational institutions and help them become world-class teaching and research institutions. The IITM was chosen as one of the Institutes to be recognised as an IoE in September 2019.

The IITM identified sixty-eight research initiatives across 21 technology clusters in its phase I. Out of these, the experts shortlisted 15 Centres of Excellence and 23 Research Centres and 10 Research Projects in Phase II.

The fifteen newly launched centres include; Critical Transitions in Complex Systems; NDE 5.0 – Industrial Assets and Process Management; Centre of Excellence on Molecular Materials and Functions; Technologies for Low Carbon and Lean Construction; Healthcare and Assistive Technologies; Maritime Experiments to Maritime Experience; Centre for Quantum Information, Communication, and Computing; Sports Science and Analytics; Centre for Soft Matter; Centre of Excellence in RF; Analog and Mixed Signal ICs; Atomistic Modelling and Materials Design; Geophysical Flows Lab; Centre for Cancer Genomics and Molecular Therapeutics; Quantum Centre for Diamond and Emergent Materials; and Energy Consortium.

“These research initiatives encompass a broad spectrum of disciplines and involve over 400 faculty members. By fostering interdisciplinary research, they facilitate collaborations that can lead to ground-breaking discoveries, innovations, and advancements in key areas,” mentions the official statement issued by the institute.

Funds allocated through the IoE initiatives have been primarily utilized for purchasing capital equipment and supporting research-related expenses. The IoE funding will facilitate stronger collaborations with industry partners leading to technology transfer and commercialisation of the research outcome.

“These strategic investments have enabled the Institute researchers to access state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, empowering them to conduct cutting-edge experiments and analyses that push the boundaries of knowledge,” states the release.

Presently IITM has 36 Centres of Excellence (COE) and a Research Park. The COEs provide leadership, research, support, and sector-specific skill training. The park brings together innovators, experienced professionals, and aspiring start-ups, all under one roof.