Bengaluru, India – May 22, 2025 – Imperial College London has inaugurated its fourth international science hub, Imperial Global India, in Bengaluru, marking a significant step in its global strategy to foster research and innovation partnerships. This new hub aims to deepen collaborations with Indian academic institutions and industries in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clean energy, quantum science, and advanced materials.
A Strategic Move to Enhance Global Collaboration
Professor Hugh Brady, President of Imperial College London, emphasized that the establishment of the Bengaluru hub is part of the university’s broader global strategy, which includes existing hubs in Singapore, San Francisco, and Accra. He noted that Bengaluru was chosen due to its vibrant research ecosystem and the university’s extensive history of collaboration with Indian institutions.
Key Initiatives Under Imperial Global India
The Bengaluru hub will spearhead several initiatives to strengthen UK-India scientific ties:
- India Connect Fund: This fund will support up to 25 joint research projects annually between Imperial and Indian partners, focusing on areas like AI, quantum science, and clean energy.
- Future Leaders Scholarship: Imperial’s largest scholarship program for Indian scientists, aiming to support 75 STEMB students over the next five years.
- Eric and Wendy Schmidt AI in Science Fellowships: Six fellowships will be established with the National Centre for Biological Sciences and the Indian Institute of Science to develop a London-Bengaluru AI in Science Network.
- Collaborative PhD Programmes: New doctoral training networks in science and technology will be launched in partnership with the Indian Institute of Science, facilitating joint research projects and student exchanges.
Strengthening Existing Collaborations
Imperial College London has maintained a long-term collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, working together on diverse research initiatives across multiple scientific fields. Additionally, the university collaborates with other leading Indian institutions, including the National Centre for Biological Sciences, IIT Delhi, and IIT Bombay.
Looking Ahead
With approximately 800 Indian students and 3,000 alumni in India, Imperial College London is committed to fostering a two-way flow of talent and ideas between the UK and India. The Bengaluru hub is expected to be a catalyst for high-impact research and innovation, addressing global challenges and contributing to the advancement of science and technology.
