In a pioneering step towards advancing medical research and innovation, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, have signed a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic collaboration aims to bridge medical expertise with cutting-edge scientific research, fostering breakthroughs in diagnostics, therapeutics, and patient care.
The MoU was formally signed by Prof. Sundar Swaminathan, Inaugural Chair, Department of Nephrology at IISc Bangalore, and Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER.
Highlighting the significance of this collaboration, Prof. Swaminathan stated, “The partnership enables joint research in medical technology, molecular biology, and biomedical engineering. It also facilitates faculty training, researcher exchanges, and the introduction of joint PhD programs. The combined strengths of PGIMER’s world-class clinical expertise and IISc’s excellence in fundamental sciences will drive groundbreaking discoveries with tangible healthcare impact.”
Prof. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, emphasized , “ A key highlight of this partnership is PGIMER’s selection as the only government hospital in India chosen for CAR-T cell therapy research. This positions the institute at the forefront of next-generation cancer treatment, alongside Tata Memorial Hospital. ”
With PGIMER’s vast patient base and highly skilled clinicians complementing IISc’s deep scientific research, this collaboration is poised to yield innovative and affordable healthcare solutions. The focus areas include Advanced diagnostic tools, Novel therapeutics, Cell and gene therapy research and Affordable medical innovations.
Both Prof Swaminathan and Prof. Lal underscored the importance of collaborative research in achieving global scientific excellence. “No institution can work in isolation. This partnership between PGIMER and IISc will accelerate progress, benefiting patients and the healthcare system worldwide,” they noted in unison.
This initiative aligns with the upcoming Tata IISc Medical School, set to be inaugurated by the end of the year. The institution will introduce physician-scientist training programs, including MD-PhD, DM-PhD, and MCh-PhD, bridging the gap between clinical practice and research to nurture the next generation of medical innovators.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in medical research and innovation, promising lasting benefits for healthcare worldwide.