Rice University Launches New Research Hub In Bengaluru

Photo: LtoR: Amy Dittmar, Howard R. Hughes Provost and executive vice president for academic affairs; Ramamoorthy Ramesh, executive vice president for research; Caroline Levander, vice president for global; Reginald DesRoches, president. 

India-West Staff Reporter

HOUSTON, TX – Rice University, a leader in research and innovation, is strengthening its international footprint with the launch of Rice Global India. The new initiative, announced on November 18, reflects the university’s commitment to enhancing collaboration and contributing to India’s rapidly expanding education and technology sectors, the university said.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony at Rice’s new Bengaluru hub marked the launch. Bengaluru, India’s third-largest city and a key center for the country’s high-tech industry was chosen as the location for this strategic expansion. The new hub sets the stage for Rice’s formal operations in India and fortifies its existing network with top academic and research institutions.

“India is a country of tremendous opportunity, one where we see the potential to make a meaningful impact through collaboration in research, innovation, and education,” said Rice President Reginald DesRoches. “Our presence in India is a critical step in expanding our global reach, and we are excited to engage more with India’s academic leaders and industries to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.”

As part of its expansion, Rice University is deepening collaborations with leading institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru. These partnerships will focus on advanced research in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable energy, alongside student and faculty exchanges.

India’s growing prominence in sectors such as climate change, energy, and artificial intelligence aligns with Rice’s strategic research priorities. Caroline Levander, Rice’s Vice President for Global, emphasized India’s importance as a partner in Rice’s global vision. “India’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing education and technology markets makes it a crucial partner for Rice’s global impact,” she said.

Rice University is consistently ranked among the top universities in the U.S. Rice was recently named the ninth best college by Forbes and the sixth best for value by U.S. News & World Report. The establishment of Rice Global India is a major step toward strengthening Rice’s role in global research and innovation.