IIM-A will soon collaborate with US universities for research

The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM-A) will be soon collaborate with three leading American universities for research over Indian market.

According to the information, IIM-A will join hands with leading US varsities such as Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of California, Berkeley and Harvard University for research projects.

Officials of the three universities have declared their association with IIM-A to conduct experimental research in the Indian market for a range of innovative products for use of those belonging to the bottom of pyramid (BOP).

According to officials, USAID had availed $ 150 million to seven US universities for their research activities in developing countries. The institute will in collaboration with these universities conduct research in water filtration, pollution monitoring and healthcare mobile technology and city-based National Institute of Design too will be part of this research programme.

Ashish Nanda, Director of IIM said, “There are two ways of starting a project, either enter into an MOU or have a bottom-up approach. Create a formal structure later if need arises.”

In the initial three projects, MIT would conduct research in innovative water filtration products to see whether a particular type of innovative products developed at their lab would suit Indian public. In the same manner, University of California, Berkely, will work on pollution-monitoring equipment and Harvard University on use of mobile technology for health welfare of the poor.