Australian university to open research centre in Bangalore

Mumbai, Oct 16 (UNI) Australian fast-bowler Brett Lee will be the brand ambassador for Deakin India Research Institute (DIRI), Bangalore to be started by the Deakin University under a tripartite agreement between the Union Government and the State Government of Karnataka.

Deakin University Vice Chancellor Professor Sally Walker said, ''DIRI will be the face of Deakin University in India and the Institute will undertake social and developmental research projects in association with the government, academia, industry and the people of the region. With this Deakin will become the first Australian university to establish a research institute in India.'' Interestingly, Lee will be playing a vital role in shaping the charitable fund, which is part of the Institute, to support research and projects such as the setting up of water filtration plants and creating better sanitation programs, Ms Walker added.

The Vice Chancellor said the Institute will begin its operations from next year and the prime areas of research will be biotechnology and nanotechnology with a view to help the people of India.

In addition, DIRI will also help Philosophy of Doctorate (PhD) candidates, associated with the industry, to undertake committed research in areas to develop the industry further.

On the occasion, Lee said, ''My association with India and DIRI will be a long term affair and India has become a second home. I don't think arguments during a game changes the camaraderie and sportsman spirit of the players and teams involved,'' the Aussie bowler said in response to a query on the frequent media reports of on-field arguments among Australian and Indian players.

Lee said, he was exited about the partnership as he will be able to assist people in India to improve their education and living standards and many of the research projects will be relevant and advantageous to Australia.

Ruling out the possibility of a Deakin campus in India, the Vice Chancellor added that the future course of plan and action of Deakin in India and elsewhere will depend on the success of DIRI.

UNI