IISc Bengaluru, University of Liverpool set up joint seed fund to boost research collaboration

Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru and the University of Liverpool have come together to launch a joint seed fund aimed at boosting research collaborations focused on solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

This move builds on an agreement signed in 2023, which laid the foundation for closer academic and research ties between the two institutions. Since then, the partnership has already led to meaningful exchanges, particularly between their biochemistry departments, both of which are among the oldest in the world.

The collaboration gathered momentum in September 2025, when a delegation from the University of Liverpool visited the IISc campus and interacted with researchers across key disciplines. The newly announced seed fund is expected to take these efforts further by supporting fresh, high-impact research ideas.

IISc Bengaluru and University of Liverpool back joint research in key areas

The fund will support collaborative projects in a range of critical and emerging fields, including artificial intelligence, biomedical and life sciences, infectious diseases under the one health approach, quantum technologies, and space research.

Both institutions have committed to investing significantly in the initiative each year over an initial three-year period. The idea is to give early-stage research projects the push they need, while also encouraging interdisciplinary work that can lead to long-term breakthroughs.

Universities to expand PhD training and exchanges

Alongside funding research, the partnership will also focus on nurturing early-career researchers. Plans include strengthening PhD training programmes by combining the strengths of the UK and Indian higher education systems.

There will also be more opportunities for faculty and student exchanges, joint supervision of research scholars, and collaborative events such as workshops and symposia, helping build a stronger and more connected research community.

University of Liverpool and IISc Bengaluru underline global impact

Professor Tariq Ali, pro-vice-chancellor for global engagement and partnerships at the University of Liverpool, described the initiative as a major step forward. “This joint seed fund marks an exciting new chapter in our growing partnership with IISc Bangalore. By bringing together world-leading expertise from both institutions, we are creating a powerful platform to address some of the most pressing global challenges of our time.”

Prof. Baladitya Suri, chair of the office of international relations at IISc, said, “We believe that academic collaborations play a vital role in advancing science, education and innovation for the well-being of society, and joint programs/activities strengthen our commitment to the shared purpose. We hope this partnership will foster interdisciplinary dialogue, facilitate knowledge sharing, and establish sustainable pathways for our engagement through the exchange of faculty and students under joint seed fund, co- supervision program, bilateral symposia/workshops, and collaborative innovation.”