IIT Delhi and University of Exeter Strengthen Ties with Symposium on Sports Science and Technology

IIT Delhi and the University of Exeter have strengthened their collaboration by hosting a joint symposium on sports science and technology. Check details here

IIT Delhi and University of Exeter Strengthen Ties

The Centre for Biomedical Engineering at IIT Delhi and the University of Exeter, UK hosted the Joint Symposium on Sports Healthcare Science and Engineering. The event convened leading researchers, academicians, industry experts, and healthcare professionals to discuss cutting-edge advancements at the intersection of sports science, healthcare, and engineering. This collaboration follows an MoU signed in January 2024 between the two institutions to explore synergies in key areas of mutual interest for India and the UK.

Sports Healthcare Science and Engineering Symposium

The symposium sought to strengthen collaboration between India and the UK in tackling key challenges and opportunities in sports and healthcare. It emphasized the role of engineering innovations in enhancing athlete performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. The event featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technical sessions on topics such as wearable technologies, biomechanics, sports injury management, and data-driven approaches to athlete health.

The symposium showcased several cutting-edge technology demonstrations, including ultrasound-based human-machine interfaces, a robotic platform for testing footwear traction, and a home rehabilitation robot - all developed by research groups at the Centre for Biomedical Engineering, IIT Delhi.

In his opening address, Prof. Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT Delhi, emphasized the significance of the partnership and reaffirmed IIT Delhi’s growing focus on sports and healthcare engineering. The symposium was inaugurated by Prof. James Gomes, Dean of International Programs at IIT Delhi, and Prof. Joanna Bowtell, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Health & Life Sciences at the University of Exeter.

Brig. Dr. Bibhu Kalyan Nayak, Director of the National Centre for Sports Science and Research at the Sports Authority of India, delivered the keynote lecture, highlighting the remarkable achievements of Indian athletes in recent Olympics and Paralympics. He emphasised the need for an evidence-based approach to sports science and stressed the importance of collaboration with IIT Delhi and international partners. He also advocated for the establishment of joint high-performance centres to drive innovation in sports technology.

Prof. James Gomes, Dean, International Programmes, IIT Delhi, remarked, "This symposium marks a significant step forward in strengthening the collaboration between IIT Delhi and the University of Exeter. By combining our expertise in engineering and healthcare, we can drive transformative solutions for athletes and individuals worldwide."

Prof. Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, added, “IIT Delhi’s innovation in fields including biomechanics, healthcare, and rehabilitation sciences is really impressive and complement Exeter’s applied sport science expertise perfectly. As India looks to enhance its global sporting impact—and potentially host an Olympic Games in the future—we are thrilled to share our expertise and collaborate with IIT Delhi and Indian industry leaders to push the boundaries of sporting excellence.”

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