The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT Hyderabad) has launched the country’s first Bioengineering Centre of Excellence for Lung Health in collaboration with the Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Germany. The centre was inaugurated on Wednesday at the IIT Hyderabad campus.
Addressing a Growing Global and National Health Need
The new centre responds to the increasing burden of respiratory diseases in India and worldwide. It aims to advance cutting-edge research at the intersection of bioengineering and clinical medicine through a strong Indo–German partnership, according to an official release from IIT Hyderabad.
Joint Leadership Strengthens Indo–German Collaboration
As reported by The Print, the centre operates under joint leadership, with Renu John from IIT Hyderabad and Soni Savai Pullamsetti from ILH, Germany, serving as directors. Together, they will guide the centre’s strategic vision and research priorities.
A Hub for Interdisciplinary Research and Talent Development
Envisioned as a global collaboration hub, the ILH–IITH Bioengineering Centre of Excellence will promote interdisciplinary research, foster innovation, and nurture scientific talent in lung health. Through this initiative, the partners aim to further strengthen India–Germany cooperation in biomedical science and engineering.
Integrating Engineering and Clinical Science
Through the Indo–German collaboration, the centre will integrate engineering expertise with clinical science to develop non-invasive diagnostic tools and advanced therapeutic strategies. At the same time, it will train the next generation of researchers and clinical leaders in lung health.
Advancing Non-Invasive Diagnostics and Personalised Therapies
Accurately assessing pulmonary and cardiac function remains a major challenge due to limitations in existing technologies. To address this gap, the ILH–IITH partnership will focus on developing novel, non-invasive methods for lung function evaluation, disease modelling, and personalised therapy.
Inauguration and Key Dignitaries
IIT Hyderabad Director B S Murty formally inaugurated the centre. Distinguished speakers at the event included Dr D Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman of AIG Hospitals, and Werner Seeger, Director of ILH and Chairman of the German Center for Lung Diseases (DZL), Germany.