University of Melbourne in Australia and Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have joined hands for the first-ever joint PhD programme in Science and Technology which may be extended to Medical PhD programmes in the near future. 

The programme is part of the Melbourne India Postgraduate Academy (MIPA), a joint initiative consisting of established researchers and joint PhD candidates from the University of Melbourne and a group of India’s top research institutions, engaging in projects that address key issues in science and technology. 

The programme aims to offer a preview of the two institutions’ academic strengths and provide students with mentorship from global experts, enable better adaptability to new cultural and research environments, and provide access to the best facilities and resources.

Under this partnership, IISc and the University of Melbourne will support up to 10 joint PhD candidates each year for the next five years. Students enrolled in the programme can spend at least 12 and up to 24 months in each institution, and upon successful completion of their PhD, graduate with one joint testamur. In order to enroll, graduate researchers must satisfy the entry requirements for PhD at both Indian Institute of Science and The University of Melbourne.