7 PhD scholars from IIT(BHU) selected for India-Japan research programme
Varanasi: In a significant achievement reflecting the growing global academic stature of the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, seven PhD scholars have been selected for the prestigious LOTUS programme. This initiative involves the circulation of talented young researchers between India and Japan, focusing on advanced research in various scientific fields.
Overview of the LOTUS Programme
The LOTUS programme is a collaborative research initiative between Indian and Japanese universities and research institutions. It aims to provide meritorious research scholars with opportunities to undertake advanced research in Japan. The initiative not only contributes to strengthening Japan’s research and innovation ecosystem but also fosters long-term academic partnerships between India and Japan.
Selection of Scholars from IIT(BHU)
A total of 285 scholars from various educational institutions across India were selected for this programme, with seven representing IIT(BHU). The selected scholars and their respective departments are as follows:
- Gyandeep (Supervisor: Dinesh Bhagavatula) – Department of Chemical Engineering & Technology
- Jai Narayan Mishra (Supervisor: Prof. Prabhakar Singh) – Department of Physics
- Soham Mukharjee (Supervisor: Prof. Joysurya Basu) – Department of Ceramic Engineering
- Jatin (Supervisor: Rajnish) – Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering & Technology
- Shivam Pandey (Supervisor: Shrawan Kumar Mishra) – School of Materials Science & Technology
- Rahul Tiwari (Supervisor: Pavan Pujar) – Department of Ceramic Engineering
- Nishi Singh (Supervisor: Mahendra Kumar Pal) – Department of Civil Engineering
Significance of the Achievement
Professor Santosh K Singh, who is in charge of International Relations at IIT(BHU), emphasized the importance of this achievement in the context of increasing global competition for scientific talent. He noted that the LOTUS programme supports both postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers, providing them with invaluable international exposure and experience.
Collaboration with Japanese Institutions
In a bid to explore avenues for academic and research collaboration, two representatives from the Sakura Science Programme Headquarters in Japan, Takashi Konishi and Yuji Nishikawa, visited IIT(BHU) on August 7 of the previous year. Their visit underscored the commitment of both nations to enhance educational and research ties.
Statements from IIT(BHU) Leadership
Professor Amit Patra, the director of IIT(BHU), expressed optimism regarding the future of international collaborations. He stated, “Such international engagements will further enhance our global academic footprint and open new pathways for collaborative innovation between India and Japan.” This sentiment reflects the broader goals of the LOTUS programme and the potential benefits for both participating nations.
Conclusion
The selection of these seven PhD scholars from IIT(BHU) for the LOTUS programme represents a significant milestone in the academic journey of these individuals and the institute as a whole. It highlights the importance of international collaboration in advancing research and innovation, paving the way for future partnerships between India and Japan.
Note: This article is based on information available as of October 2023 and aims to provide an overview of the recent achievements of IIT(BHU) in the context of international research collaborations.
