IIT Kharagpur and University of Leeds Sign MoU for Joint Supervision of PhD Programs

New Delhi, July 16, 2024: The University of Leeds (UoL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IITKGP) to enhance academic and research cooperation through joint supervision of PhD programs in Civil Engineering, Transport Studies, and Biological Sciences.

The MoU was signed during the University of Leeds’ 25-Year Celebrations in Delhi on June 28, 2024. This event also marked the signing of the Joint External Supervision Agreement, reinforcing the long-standing relationship between the institutions. The partnership follows a recent visit by a 13-member team from IIT Kharagpur to the University of Leeds.

Prof. Manuel Barcia, Dean of Global Engagement at the University of Leeds, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, emphasizing its potential to foster global academic excellence and innovative solutions to pressing challenges. Prof. Rabibrata Mukherjee, Dean of International Relations at IIT Kharagpur, expressed excitement about exploring diverse academic partnerships and the benefits of the External Joint Supervision Agreement for doctoral students.

The collaboration aims to address themes like Clean Energy, Sustainable Transport, Resilient Infrastructure, Healthcare, Chemicals and Waste, and Water and Sanitation, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Future initiatives include a Jointly Funded Bilateral Mobility Agreement and participation in the Joint Virtual Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Development.

This partnership is expected to enhance higher education and research in both countries, inspire similar international collaborations, and have a lasting societal impact through multidisciplinary research and global networks.