Pune: Symbiosis International University and Aston University Launch ‘Symbiosis Aston Research Academy’ for Global Research Excellence

Pune, 27th January 2025: Symbiosis International University and  Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom announce the ambitious establishment of the ‘Symbiosis Aston Research Academy’(SARA). Inspired by the IIT Monash model, SARA will be a multidisciplinary platform focused on developing high-impact research focused on opportunities in industry and business, and other research challenges facing our societies. SARA is envisioned to create a globally renowned research academy that fosters research excellence and innovation, addresses complex global issues, and delivers tangible societal and industrial benefits.

SIU and Aston will collaborate, co-create and nurture a dynamic research environment with a focus on:
●       Joint PhD Programmes featuring co-supervision by faculty from both institutions
●       Collaborative, multidisciplinary research across defined thematic areas
●       Industry and business engagement for impactful socio-economic outcomes
SARA will focus on Innovative Research and undertake joint research projects in key thematic areas, including but not limited to: Applied Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Bioinformatics, Bioscience and Biotechnology, Climate Change and Sustainability, Medical Image Analysis, Nano Science and Nano technology, Medical Devices, Sustainable Energy, Smart Sensors and Materials, Digital and Media Technologies, Business and Entrepreneurship.

The foundational strength of SARA will be drawn from its Joint (Dual-Degree) PhD Programmes with top researchers and supervisors from both universities co-supervising Ph D scholars.  By spending semesters on both campuses (in India & UK), PhD scholars will learn from the unique learning ecosystems which SIV and Astor have distinctively created. These dual doctoral degrees will ensure robust academic and industry recognition globally.

SARA will also seek active Industry Collaborations and will engage with industry partners for sponsored research, technology transfer, and commercialisation, aligning its research with market demands and relevant policy frameworks.

As a Research Academy, SARA is also committed to a Capacity Building and will offer training programs, seminars and workshops, and annual symposiums to showcase research findings and breakthroughs.
SARA will be funded and managed by both SIU and Aston, while being physically located at SIU, Lavale, Pune.

Aston and SIU have been close academic partners for over 8 years with collaborative dual degree programmes, student and faculty mobility, research projects and more.

Prof. Aleks Subic, Vice- Chancellor and Chief Executive Aston University, Birmingham, UK conferred the esteemed Chancellor’s Medal on Prof. (Dr.) S B Mujumdar, Chancellor of Symbiosis International University (SIU). The conferment ceremony took place on 25th January 2025 at The Ritz Carlton, Pune.

This is the first time in 44 years that Aston University has conferred the award to an international personality and Dr. Mujumdar is the first one to receive this award from India. This award celebrates Prof. S.B. Mujumdar’s lifelong dedication to quality higher education and internationalisation.