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IIT Madras and Sri Ramachandra Institute in Chennai have collaborated on an innovative MD-PhD dual degree program. SRIHER grants a medical degree, while IIT Madras offers a PhD through its Department of Medical Sciences and Technology, focusing on interdisciplinary research.

The formal agreement, inked on November 16, 2023, signifies a concerted effort to amalgamate medical acumen with technological innovation, acknowledging the pressing need for 'Physician-Scientists.' These exceptional professionals, comprising a mere 2 percent of the biomedical workforce, are renowned for their ability to intertwine clinical insights with rigorous scientific inquiry, often paving the way for paradigm-shifting discoveries—such as unraveling the link between smoking and cancer or sugar consumption and diabetes.

At its core, the program aims to cultivate a cadre of adept research scientists capable of propelling India towards self-sufficiency in its medical landscape. Postgraduates at SRIHER, identified through NEET, will have the opportunity to apply for the PhD program at IIT Madras following their second year. This integration between institutions will encompass mentorship and research, nurturing a new breed of medical innovators equipped with a multifaceted skill set that merges clinical proficiency with cutting-edge scientific investigation.

Beyond academic collaboration, this visionary effort champions an interdisciplinary approach to medical education. It aspires to equip future physicians not only with a deep understanding of medical sciences but also with the skills to integrate technological advancements seamlessly into clinical practice. Furthermore, partnerships with prominent medical practitioners and leading institutions are being established, amplifying the program's holistic approach and setting the stage for a transformative impact on India's healthcare landscape.

News Source: India Today