On May 24, 2023, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) launched 15 Centers of Excellence (CoE) as part of the 'Institute of Eminence' (IoE) Scheme. These centers will conduct advanced research to develop new technologies with a global impact.
The IoE Scheme was created by the Government of India to help higher educational institutions become world-class in teaching and research. IIT Madras, one of the top institutions in India, was selected in 2019.
With funding from the IoE grants, IIT Madras has established various research projects in different fields.
The financial support from the IoE Scheme will enable IIT Madras faculty members to pursue ambitious research goals, work on cutting-edge projects, and attract talented individuals to join their research efforts.
In the first phase, IIT Madras identified 68 research projects across various fields. After a careful evaluation, 15 Centers of Excellence, along with 23 Research Centers and 10 Research Projects, were selected for the second phase.
These research initiatives cover a wide range of subjects and involve over 400 faculty members. By promoting interdisciplinary research, these centers encourage collaboration that can lead to significant discoveries, innovations, and advancements in different areas.
During the launch event, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, mentioned that a substantial amount of funding had been invested in research. He announced the 'Center of Excellence' status for 15 projects based on their progress and expected them to become world-class centers, bringing prestige to the institute.
Prof. Kamakoti also explained that these centers involve faculty members from multiple departments and focus on specialized technologies. For example, there are centers dedicated to Quantum Diamond and Emergent Material, electronics, and aerospace engineering. The outcomes of these centers are expected to have practical applications, leading to commercialization, product development, and collaboration with the industry.
Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Former Director of IIT Madras, expressed the institute's aim to achieve breakthroughs in research in emerging areas. He mentioned that within the next five years, they expect to have several world-class Centers of Excellence.
The IoE funding will also facilitate collaborations with industry partners for technology transfer and commercialization of research outcomes.
IIT Madras aims to work with companies, startups, and industry leaders to develop advanced technologies, products, and solutions that address real-world challenges and contribute to economic growth.
Prof. Raghunathan Rengasamy, Dean (Global Engagement) of IIT Madras, highlighted that the IoE funding has had a positive impact on research output, reputation, and global standing of the institute.
It has helped attract collaborations with renowned researchers and institutions worldwide, expanding knowledge and creating opportunities for faculty and students.
In addition to research initiatives, IIT Madras emphasizes international collaborations and academic mobility. Through partnerships with universities and research institutions globally, they engage in joint research projects and knowledge exchange programs.
Overall, the IoE funding has provided resources, infrastructure, and opportunities for IIT Madras to excel in research and innovation.
