In The Spotlight
Research Excellence and Publication Growth of BITS Pilani
The Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, is an institution that resonates with a culture of excellence-oriented academic performance, infused with an insatiable appetite for research and innovation. In the past decade, BITS productivity for research and innovation has been on an upward trajectory and is quite unequivocally emerging as one of the premier academic institutes in the country.
Impressive Growth in Publications
From 2019 to June 2024, there has been tremendous growth in the number of research publications at BITS Pilani. From 1,573 publications in the year 2019, the number went up to a remarkable 2,852 publications in 2023. As of June 2024, BITS Pilani has already come up with 1,407 research papers, clearly reflecting thereby the sustainability associated with its scholarly contributions.
This success is attributed to the university's support for researchers, including opportunities to publish articles without Article Processing Charges (APC) in high-quality Open Access journals through Open access agreements with Wiley, the Royal Society of Chemistry, IEEE, Cambridge University Press, ASME. Additionally, the results of the quality research output have increased due to upgradation of subscriptions to high quality journals database like Elsevier ScienceDirect Freedom Collection, Wiley, Sage, and Taylor & Francis.
Subject-wise Contributions
The research output of BITS Pilani spans a myriad range of disciplines. The top subjects in publications include Engineering with 502, Computer Science with 315, Physics and Astronomy with 254, and Materials Science with 224. Other notable fields are Chemistry and Mathematics, Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology—fields that really contribute to the total research output.
In this manner, the approach benefits the institute through increased breadth in its research output and fosters innovative intersections between different fields of research. Naturally, this concentration of prolific researchers underlines a strong academic environment and support from the institute towards individual and collaborative research pursuits.
Application based & Collaborative Research Initiatives
Another unique aspect of the research at BITS, Pilani, is that it borders on real-world applications; its research teams develop practical solutions for contemporary problems. The Department of Mechanical Engineering is working on projects in the area of sustainable energy, such as increasing the efficiency of solar panels. The Department of Computer Science is also engaged in developing AI algorithms to improve healthcare diagnostics. These not only contribute to academic knowledge but can also have an impact on society.
BITS Pilani has raised many high-impact projects through its insistence on collaborative research. Industry leaders and reputed international universities have teamed up to produce leading-edge research in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Renewable Energy, and Biomedical Engineering.
Comparison with Peer Institutions
Among India's top higher education institutions, BITS Pilani stands tall alongside the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The IITs are especially renowned for their aggressive research performance, trudging usually at the top of national rankings. However the high-impact journal and multidisciplinary research significance at BITS Pilani, sets it at a very competitive position. For instance, while the top 3 IIT’s are known for their high volume of publications, BITS Pilani’s emphasis on quality sets it apart. This is key to attaining global reputation and international collaborations.
Future Prospects
As we move ahead, the objective of BITS, Pilani is to push this research productivity further with a philosophy of continuous innovation and learning. We believe in investing in forthcoming fields like Quantum Computing and Nanotechnology so that the institution progresses with the changes in science and technology. From here itself, counting on such strategic initiatives, BITS, Pilani will continue to tread the growth path to make its mark in academic research.
Detailed information about the latest research projects and collaborations happening at BITS Pilani can be browsed by visiting the BITS Pilani Research Website or follow their updates on LinkedIn.
Research Ecosystem
The research ecosystem at BITS Pilani gets still another impetus from its first-echelon facilities and all-rounded support systems. BITS Pilani's selection for a ₹60 crore grant from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the SATHI (Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institute) scheme, alongside its cluster partners, underlines the institution's dedication to research and innovation. Out of over 35 competing institutions, the compelling proposal by BITS Pilani's faculty team distinguished itself, highlighting the institute's commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and technological capabilities.
SATHI, the high-end facility at BITS Pilani aims to become a catalyst for the next wave of IoT- based smart electronic devices, prototyping, biotechnology, and healthcare startups in India while also meeting the diverse needs of researchers in various scientific and engineering domains. Ultimately, the collective efforts of the Foundation aspire to contribute to the betterment of the society. This envisioned center will encompass a prototyping facility, serving as a comprehensive platform to transform scientific breakthroughs into tangible products thereby serving the community and the nation overall.
Also available at the institute are grants, fellowships, research funding, and many other new initiatives of different kinds that ride shotgun with budding researchers.
SPARKLE
Student Program for Advancing Research, Knowledge, and Entrepreneurship
Fostering a culture of innovation and multidisciplinary collaboration, SPARKLE empowers students to excel in research, knowledge, and entrepreneurship. Here, each student becomes a luminary in their journey of intellectual ascension.
CDRF
Cross-Disciplinary Research Framework
Bridging minds across BITS campuses and diverse disciplines, CDRF connects faculty for a seamless exchange of ideas and sculpting the future of innovative discoveries.
SOLVE
Innovation Program for Societal and Business Problem-Solving
SOLVE tackles societal and business challenges head-on with innovative solutions. Paving the way for the transformation of these solutions into thriving and viable business enterprises.
CREST
Center for Research Excellence in Semiconductor Technologies
Propelled by a generous USD 1 Million donation, CREST is dedicated to advancing semiconductor technology research and achieving excellence in the field redefining the future of technological advancements.
PhD DRIVE
PhD in Deep-tech Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
The program emphasizes deep-tech research, innovation, and value generation to cultivate entrepreneurial skills among PhD candidates.
SIRE
School of Interdisciplinary Research and Entrepreneurship (SIRE)
The heartbeat of innovation, SIRE is an online hub of research and innovation at BITS Pilani. It is the epicenter where visionary ideas evolve into excellent solutions!
Research Stories
Vitamin D and Brain Health: Insights into its Role in Neurodegenerative and Neurological Disorders
Pioneering researchers such as Pragya Komal, Manjari SKV, Sharon Mariam Abraham, Omalur Eshwari, Kishore Golla, Priya Jhelum and Shuvadeep Maity are at the forefront of this exploration. Their work highlights the neuroprotective roles of Vitamin D, examining its anti-apoptotic activities and effects on various disease models. By investigating the molecular mechanisms of Vitamin D, including its influence on gene expression, protein levels, and signaling pathways, these studies provide crucial insights into how this vitamin could potentially serve as a therapeutic agent.
Vitamin D, often celebrated for its role in bone health, is now emerging as a key player in the realm of neurological and neurodegenerative health.
BITS Exclusive
SIS2024
BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa campus hosted after 38 long years in India the “Surfactants in Solution” Symposium. A prestigious series initiated in 1976 by Dr. Kash Mittal in Albany, New York. This international event has traveled across the globe, with previous meetings held in cities like Lund, Bordeaux, New Delhi, Ottawa, Gainesville, and more.
The genesis of this symposium lies in its commitment to advancing the understanding of surfactants and interfacial science. This symposium gathers academicians and industry scientists to present their research on surfactants and interfacial science, offering a platform for networking and knowledge exchange. Highlights of the symposium include keynote addresses, research presentations, and networking opportunities.
The symposium plays a vital role in addressing the challenges and innovations within this field, contributing significantly to scientific and industrial progress.
Student Spotlight
Our institute is proud to announce that Siddhant Kulkarni, Kumarakrishna Valeti, Sharad Arora, Ruchik Bakhai, and their mentor Dr. Hemant Rathore won the Vimarsh 2023 5G Hackathon. This event, a collaboration between the Telecom Centres of Excellence (TCoE) India under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), aimed to revolutionize Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) operations through innovative 5G solutions.
Their success highlights their exceptional talent and innovative spirit. The Vimarsh 2023 5G Hackathon provided a platform for our team to develop groundbreaking solutions for the law enforcement domain. Their achievement brings great honor to our institute and exemplifies the potential of 5G technology in transforming critical sectors. Congratulations to the team and Dr. Hemant Rathore for their remarkable accomplishment.
Young Alumni
Akshat Srivastava
Akshat Srivastava a fresh graduate of BE in CS from the class of 2024 at the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani - Goa Campus was recently recognized by Apple CEO Tim Cook for his outstanding work in the prestigious Swift Student Challenge. He was invited to Apple Park in Cupertino, where he had the incredible opportunity to present his project directly to Mr. Cook!
Director BITS Pilani - K.K. Birla Goa Campus shares, "Akshat's achievement is a proud moment for all of us. It reflects the dedication and hard work of our students and the supportive ecosystem we strive to create. We are incredibly proud of Akshat and excited to see the amazing things he will accomplish in the future.
Alumni Spotlight
Chandralekha Motati
Chandralekha Motati, a dynamic alumna from the 2008 batch of BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, is currently excelling as a Product Manager at YouTube, and driving innovation at one of the world's leading platforms.
A Gold Medalist in Computer Science with a perfect 10/10 CGPA, followed by an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, and moreover her career path from BITS to Google is a testament to her dedication and continuous pursuit of knowledge.
Today at YouTube, she leads important initiatives in captions, audio descriptions, and creator processing, and throughout her career, Chandralekha has consistently demonstrated her expertise in product management and technology integration, contributing to user-centric innovations at some of the world's leading tech companies.
Faculty Spotlight
Prof. Saurabh Patankar
Professor Saurabh Patankar’s start-up, GreenShift Energy Private Limited., incubated at the BITS Goa Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship Society (BGIIES), has been selected for the Environxcel 2.0 scheme.
Patankar, a faculty member in the Department of Chemical Engineering at BITS Pilani, K K Birla Goa Campus, leads GreenShift Energy Private Limited. The Environxcel 2.0 scheme, part of the HDFC Parivartan Program, supports start-ups with proven sales models that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Selected start-ups receive grants of up to 10 lakh rupees, opportunities to launch in new global markets, and collaboration with public sector units.
GreenShift Energy Private Limited has also been recognised as the best start-up at the Mega CiiA-3 Innovations Exhibition in Mumbai in February 2024 and the Best Industrial Biotechnology Start-up at Global Bio-India 2023 in New Delhi.
Suhane Pal
In her own words "Honored to support my alma mater, the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani (BITS), with this new video series centered on women shaping the future. Watch the full video here: https://lnkd.in/gSeH447y on BITS’ official YouTube channel. This institution holds a special place in my ❤️ heart, as it is where my journey in mechanical engineering began
The lessons I learned at BITS Pilani have been invaluable in my journey from the shop floor to the C-suite. For women looking to pursue a career in STEM or conquer any goal, my hope is that you see no challenge is insurmountable. With determination and hard work, anything is possible.
Events Gallery
International Immersion Programme - NDIIT
The Department of Management Studies at BITS Pilani, Dubai Campus (BPDC), hosted a dynamic international immersion program for 34 enthusiastic management students from the New Delhi Institute of Information Technology (NDIIT). This unique experience offered our students a comprehensive insight into the business, economic, and socio-cultural landscape of Dubai.
Highlights included:
-Tailored lectures on business practices and future economic trends.
-Field trips to Dubai's business hubs for real-world exposure
-Personalized career advice, CV workshops, and soft skills training
-Visits to iconic UAE landmarks like Burj Khalifa and the Museum of the Future
-Exciting excursions, including a desert safari and sports activities
-Networking dinner with industry professionals
Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India joins forces with BITS Pilani for advanced technology research
Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India has signed a five-year Master Research Agreement (MRA) with Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani for advanced technology research.
This agreement will establish a framework for joint research, focused on building IP in pioneering tech solutions across gen AI, electric mobility, and software development.
Here's to opening doors for greater industry-academia collaboration, streamlined research efforts, and strengthening digital capabilities within India's talent pool!
International Collaboration: BITSPilani & Osaka University
This is a major milestone in our collaborative efforts with Osaka University. Prof. Nishith Gupta, PI of the Intracellular Parasite Education and Research Labs (iPEARL) and Wellcome Trust - DBT Senior Fellow, has recently completed a significant visit to The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research (SANKEN), Osaka University.
During his visit, he explored cutting-edge laboratories led by Prof. Takeharu Nagai, Prof. Masahiro Yamamoto, and Prof. Kunihiko Nishino. This visit is a part of the Indo-Japan project, sponsored by DST-JSPS, focusing on pioneering biosensor monitoring of biomolecules in Toxoplasma gondii as a model intracellular pathogen.
We thank the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) for their unwavering support through this esteemed scholar mobility program.
Prof. Gupta’s visit, following earlier visits by Prof. Nagai and his scholar Mr. Diogo Figueiredo to BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, and Dr. Ratnesh Kumar Srivastav and Ms. Priyanka Chakravarti (iPEARL) to Osaka University, strengthens our partnership, propelling advancements in genetically encoded biosensors, high-resolution imaging, and innovative technologies.
Notably, this collaboration has culminated in a Memorandum of Understanding for long-term cooperation between BITS Pilani and Osaka University, ranked among the Top 100 universities globally according to QS World Rankings.
New Initiatives
In 2024
Explore BITS Pilani Like Never Before with Our 360-degree Virtual Tour!
Design. Share. Win!
Announcement: Winner
We are pleased to announce the results of our Mascot Design Contest, launched in March. We received 27 fantastic entries that showed the creativity and skill of our students. The rules, collated sheet with mascot names, brief descriptions, and designs, have been going through thorough review.
One of the designs was indeed very innovative, had an excellent perspective, and also gained a lot of appreciation on social media and from BITSAA. So, for this outstanding design, we are happy to announce it as the winning entry for the contest. The student who has done this great work will receive an Amazon voucher.
So, it is our honour to reward our students and encourage greater participation in future contests. Watch out for more updates and announcements in the BITSology upcoming edition.
Enjoy your win, and kudos to all for great participation. The winning participant shall receive his prize in the form of the mail.
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