University of Leeds, IIT Kharagpur sign agreement for joint research, student exchange, innovation

The University of Leeds and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur have signed an agreement to establish a long-term strategic partnership aimed at advancing interdisciplinary research, academic collaboration and innovation.

As part of the agreement, the two institutions will set up a jointly funded seed fund of up to USD 100,000, with each institution contributing up to USD 50,000. The fund will support pilot research projects, help researchers test innovative ideas and develop proposals for larger national and international funding opportunities.

According to the press release, the University of Leeds has already allocated and utilised its share of the funding to support the initial phase of collaborative activities, while IIT Kharagpur has committed its contribution for the current year.

Agreement to boost research, education collaboration

The partnership will also promote collaboration in research, education and innovation through joint undergraduate, postgraduate and research-led teaching programmes. It aims to provide students and researchers with international learning opportunities and exposure to diverse academic perspectives.

The agreement further includes faculty visits, student exchange programmes and research mobility initiatives to strengthen academic engagement between the two institutions. Both universities will also work together to organise conferences, workshops and international forums involving researchers, industry leaders and policymakers.

In addition, the University of Leeds and IIT Kharagpur will explore opportunities to strengthen research commercialisation, entrepreneurship and industry partnerships. The collaboration may also support innovation-driven initiatives in India that translate research outcomes into solutions for societal and industrial challenges.

Leeds highlights value of global collaboration

Speaking on the collaboration, Vasilis Sarhosis, Director of Internationalisation at the University of Leeds, said, "This partnership marks an exciting step forward for both institutions and highlights the value of international collaboration in addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. By combining our strengths, we can drive world-class research, support talented students, and deliver real impact in tackling global challenges."

Further, he said, “We look forward to building a dynamic and enduring relationship with IIT Kharagpur that advances knowledge, fosters innovation, and creates opportunities for our academic communities in both the UK and India."

IIT Kharagpur sees value in global partnerships

Commenting on the partnership, Anandaroop Bhattachrya, Dean of International Relations at IIT Kharagpur, said, "IIT Kharagpur has always believed that global partnerships are essential for advancing research excellence and creating transformative educational opportunities. This collaboration with the University of Leeds brings together complementary strengths and shared ambitions, enabling us to pursue impactful research, nurture talent, and strengthen innovation ecosystems."

He said the partnership is expected to generate new knowledge and develop solutions that contribute to societal and economic progress.

The institutions said the collaboration reflects the growing academic and research ties between India and the United Kingdom and is expected to create long-term opportunities for students, researchers and faculty through joint research, academic mobility and innovation initiatives.