India and the United Kingdom have announced the initiation of the Ramanujan Junior Researchers Programme, a fellowship aimed at fostering collaboration among young scientists from both countries. This program, backed by India”s Department of Science and Technology (DST), allows Indian physicists and mathematicians to conduct research at the London Institute for Mathematical Sciences (LIMS).
The announcement came during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer”s recent visit to India. The fellowship is inspired by the legendary Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan and his notable collaboration with GH Hardy in 1913, aiming to enhance scientific ties between India and the UK.
In its initial phase, the programme will select up to six PhD students from the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR). These selected participants, referred to as “Ramanujan Junior Visitors”, will spend several months at LIMS, where they will attend lectures and participate in collaborative research projects.
Looking ahead, the second phase of the initiative will introduce “Ramanujan Junior Fellowships”, which will be available to early-career researchers throughout India. This extension will provide opportunities for these researchers to engage in full-time research at LIMS for a duration of three years.
Dr. Thomas Fink, the Director of LIMS, expressed that the programme will serve as “a bridge for the exchange of talents between two science superpowers.” Meanwhile, Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami emphasized that “science advances not through isolation, but through friendship and dialogue.”
The London Institute for Mathematical Sciences, located at the historic Royal Institution, has a rich history of contributing to major scientific advancements. This new partnership will grant Indian researchers access to a premier scientific environment, thereby enhancing their involvement in global theoretical research.
As the fellowship progresses, it is anticipated to strengthen scientific cooperation between India and the UK, ultimately nurturing future generations of Indian scientists.
