Dell, IIT-Madras to do joint R&D in next-generation infra, cloud technologies

Dell, an integrated global IT major, today announced its collaboration with IIT Madras (IIT-M) for joint research and development programme in next generation infrastructure and cloud technologies. As part of the partnership, Dell and IIT-Madras will undertake collaborative research projects for next-generation technology and business needs.

Dell aims to leverage capabilities at the Dell Networking Centre and the talent in Chennai for strengthening research on the subject. This industry-academia partnership will address research and development of next-generation cloud technologies that would play a key role in verticals like telecom and healthcare, according to a company statement.

The partnership would entail sponsoring various research projects and funding research scholars in areas that coincide with Dell Research's objectives. Additionally, the partnership also provides internship opportunities for IIT-M students.

Jai Menon, vice-president, head of Research and Chief Research Officer for Dell, said, while innovation has always been at the core of Dell, the company now wants to focus on disruptive, futuristic technologies.

The company believes that industry-academia partnerships are key to fostering advancements in technology and the partnership with IIT-M will bring unique approaches and innovations for future, he said.

Sreedhara Narayanaswamy, executive director & GM - datacenter PD/PI global engineering and Chennai R&D, added that the partnership allows bi-directional collaboration and research activities in which both the Chennai R&D team as well as the faculty and students of IIT-M realise long-term benefits."

Professor R Nagarajan, Dean of International & Alumni Relations at IIT Madras, added, "We are constantly looking for ways in which industry can partner us to enhance our research ecosystem, and make our campus the top choice for faculty, research scholars and companies."

"Our partnership will provide young minds with opportunity to contribute towards research in the field of next-generation technologies and solutions," he said.