Closer ties with India for a more sustainable future

A new collaboration between the University of Adelaide and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore will see expertise in the fields of sustainability and energy shared between the two leading universities. 

The fields of energy and sustainability have been a key focus of the Australia-India bilateral partnership in recent years and combined with both institutions’ expertise in this field, make it an important foundational pillar of collaborative efforts.  

Delegates from the University of Adelaide’s Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology and Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Resources (ISER) met with counterparts from IISc’s Interdisciplinary Centre for Energy Research in Bangalore in January to share their research insights. 

Further priorities were discussed including joint research projects, opportunities for experts to work at either institution, research grant opportunities which are aimed at benefiting both institutions and their respective communities.  

The meeting builds on previous ones held between the two institutions including a Senior Executive Mission by the University of Adelaide to India in March 2023, led by the University of Adelaide’s Vice-Chancellor & President Professor Peter Hoj AC and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement) Dr Jessica Gallagher. 

There are great opportunities to work together in areas that are not only strengths of both institutions but are also of significant national importance to both our countries.Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement) Dr Jessica Gallagher

The visit included a signing of a memorandum of understanding between the University of Adelaide and IISc to build ongoing mutually beneficial collaboration and research projects. This forms an important foundation to the University’s broader strategic engagement with Indian institutions including exploring a strategic and comprehensive collaboration plan with IISc. 

Quotes attributable to: 

Dr Jessica Gallagher, Deputy Vice Chancellor (External Engagement), University of Adelaide  

“The University of Adelaide is excited to be exploring strategic opportunities with the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. 

“There are great opportunities to work together in areas that are not only strengths of both institutions but are also of significant national importance to both our countries.  

“We are committed to this partnership and will work together to develop solutions to global problems.” 

Professor Michael Goodsite, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Energy Futures), University of Adelaide 

“We look forward to progressing our collaboration with IISc with its significant expertise in clean energy and other fields related to sustainability. 

“Sustainable use of resources and generation of clean energy is a challenge that must be addressed collaboratively if we are going to meet global emissions targets.” 

Professor Abhishek K. Singh – Chair, Office of International Relations (OIR), Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore  

"We hope this is just the beginning of our long-term partnership with the University of Adelaide.  

“We truly anticipate the extension of this cooperation to other interdisciplinary areas, where we look forward to working together and solving problems with global impact."   

Professor Dasappa Srinivasaiah, Chair, Interdisciplinary Centre for Energy Research, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore  

"It was heartening to be part and witness the overall interest of the academics at the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Adelaide during the recent joint workshop in Sustainable Energy at IISc.  

“Looking forward towards forging a relationship by exploring the funding opportunities to support the collaborative programs leading to strengthen our relationship further."