MoU signing at Tohoku University, Japan. Photo courtesy: IIT Bombay

IIT Bombay and Tohoku University (TU), Japan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the IITB-TU Joint Institute of Excellence (JIE) marking a new chapter in their long-standing partnership. This academic and research collaboration will facilitate joint Master’s and PhD programs, offering students unique opportunities for dual mentorship, access to world-class facilities, and immersion in the academic ecosystems of two leading institutions.

At an event organized at Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, a Dual-Doctoral Degree PhD Program (DDDP), also referred to as a Cotutelle Program was launched. This program represents the first step toward establishing the Joint Institute of Excellence, which, with the necessary governmental approvals over time, is expected to evolve into a full-fledged joint institute of excellence. The MoU signing ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), the Embassy of India in Japan, and senior leadership from both TU and IIT Bombay.

The Tohoku University-IIT Bombay partnership goes back over 25 years. The cotutelle arrangement for the PhD. program is set to commence shortly, with both institutions eager to implement their shared vision of cutting-edge academic and research collaboration that addresses global challenges. Plans are already underway to extend this initiative to include Master’s programs in the near future.

IIT Bombay recently hosted the 2025 IITB–Tohoku University Global Immersion Program (March 17 to 21, 2025). This short-term initiative welcomed 10 students and one faculty member from Tohoku University, offering them an enriching academic and cultural experience.

Over the course of four consecutive days, participants engaged in intensive four-hour academic sessions each day covering key themes such as green energy, climate change, entrepreneurship, and an introduction to machine learning. These sessions were

In addition to the academic component, the program featured a guided campus tour, a cultural excursion to Mumbai, and visits to various research facilities. Participants also had opportunities to interact with IIT Bombay students, gaining first-hand insights into student life, campus culture, and ongoing activities at the institute.

This program served as a valuable platform for academic exchange and cross-cultural engagement, further strengthening the relationship between IIT Bombay and Tohoku University.