IIT Kanpur launches initiative to promote neuroscience research

NEW DELHI: The Indian Institute of Technology, or IIT Kanpur, has launched ‘Jay Pullur neuroscience initiative’ to promote neuroscience research by providing state-of-the-art infrastructure at the institute.

The initiative aims to bring together neuroscience-related research activities between the departments of biological sciences and bioengineering, cognitive science, and the Gangwal School of Medical Sciences and Technology. It was launched at outreach auditorium of the IIT Kanpur on July 21.

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The initiative is being supported by an endowment of Rs 5 crore made by Nirmala Jay Pullur, wife of Jay Pullur and alumnus of the institute. Jay Pullur completed his MTech from the department of computer science and engineering in 1987 from IIT Kanpur. He went on to found an IT firm ‘Pramati Technologies’.

During the event, ‘Jay Pullur non-invasive brain stimulation laboratory’ in the cognitive science department and ‘Jay Pullur reading room’ at the PK Kelkar Library were inaugurated. Jay Pullur’s wife, his brother, Vijay Pullur, and other family members were present on the occasion.

The laboratory will work in the domain of brain mapping and stimulation, and the reading room will house new furniture and systems. Part of the endowment fund will also seed and nurture neuroscience research through lecture series, student scholarships and provide travel grants to students pursuing their research. This will enhance the scope of research and learning for neuroscience students and research scholars.

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IIT Kanpur director Abhay Karandikar said, “With the establishment of the ‘Jay Pullur Neuroscience Initiative,' we embark on a transformative journey in neuroscience research at IIT Kanpur. This noble endeavor, made possible by the generous contribution from Nirmala Jay Pullur, will not only propel our institution to the forefront of scientific excellence but also honour the indelible mark left by our alumnus Jay Pullur in the field of science and technology,”

Nirmala Jay Pullur said, “It is very heartening to see the initiatives taken by IIT Kanpur in the field of neuroscience. Jay Pullur’s desire to put India on the global map of excellence in science and technology will be furthered through this initiative.”