Deva Priyakumar Appointed as Dean of Research & Development at IIIT Hyderabad
The International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIIT Hyderabad) has announced the appointment of Professor U. Deva Priyakumar as the new Dean of Research & Development. He succeeds Professor C.V. Jawahar, who held the position for two consecutive terms.
About Prof. U. Deva Priyakumar
Prof. Deva Priyakumar is a distinguished academic and researcher, currently serving as a Professor and the Founding Project Director of IHub-Data, a technology innovation hub at IIIT Hyderabad. His extensive experience in the field of research and development makes him an ideal candidate for this prominent role.
Academic and Research Background
Before his appointment as Dean, Prof. Priyakumar was the Head of the Center for Computational Natural Sciences and Bioinformatics (CCNSB) at IIIT Hyderabad. His research interests encompass a wide range of topics, including:
- Artificial Intelligence applications in Chemistry and Biology
- Computer-aided drug design
- AI for healthcare
With over 150 publications in esteemed international journals, Prof. Priyakumar has gained recognition for his contributions to the scientific community. His accolades include:
- Chemical Research Society of India Medal
- Indian National Science Academy Medal
- Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Invitation Fellowship
Vision for Research & Development
Upon his appointment, Prof. Priyakumar expressed his enthusiasm for leading the research initiatives at IIIT Hyderabad. He stated, “IIIT Hyderabad is very well known for its excellence in research and innovation with collaborations across research groups from industry and government agencies. I am honoured to be given the responsibility to lead the institute’s research efforts from the front.”
He emphasized his commitment to expanding the research capacity of the institute and engaging in initiatives aimed at solving real-life problems. Prof. Priyakumar aims to intensify research translation, ensuring that the findings and innovations developed at IIIT Hyderabad have a tangible impact on society.
Support from IIIT Hyderabad Leadership
Prof. Sandeep K. Shukla, the Director of IIIT Hyderabad, congratulated Prof. Priyakumar on his new role. He remarked, “Prof. Deva Priyakumar’s leadership and research excellence have been instrumental in shaping IIIT Hyderabad’s interdisciplinary research culture. His vision and deep engagement with both fundamental and translational research make him the ideal choice to lead our R&D efforts into the next phase of innovation and societal impact.”
Future Directions for IIIT Hyderabad
As the new Dean of Research & Development, Prof. Priyakumar will be tasked with steering the institute towards new heights in research and innovation. His leadership is expected to foster an environment conducive to interdisciplinary collaboration, which is crucial for addressing the complex challenges faced by society today.
IIIT Hyderabad has established itself as a leader in research and education in India, particularly in the fields of information technology and computer science. With Prof. Priyakumar at the helm of R&D, the institute is poised to enhance its contributions to both academia and industry, further solidifying its reputation on a global scale.
Conclusion
Prof. U. Deva Priyakumar’s appointment as Dean of Research & Development at IIIT Hyderabad marks a significant step forward for the institute. His extensive experience and commitment to research excellence are expected to drive the institute’s initiatives in innovation and societal contributions. As he embarks on this new journey, the academic community and industry stakeholders alike are eager to see the advancements that will emerge under his leadership.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the announcement made by IIIT Hyderabad and is accurate as of November 3, 2025.
