Building Labs, Not Just Classrooms: The Infrastructure Behind Research at MUJ

At Manipal University Jaipur, research is an important part of the learning experience. They provide students and faculty with access to modern labs, advanced equipment, and dedicated research spaces that support innovation.

These facilities help turn ideas of students into real-world solutions while also allowing them to gain valuable practical exposure.

In this interaction with Careers360, Manipal University Jaipur discusses its research-driven infrastructure that fosters innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a culture of scientific inquiry across disciplines. Read below to get detailed information.

Careers360: How does the idea of “building labs, not just classrooms” reflect the core philosophy of the university?

MUJ: MUJ’s mission statement reads” To be the most preferred University for innovative and interdisciplinary learning; Foster academic, research and professional excellence in all domains and transform young minds into competent professionals with good human values”. Hence, building lab not just classrooms, fits perfectly with the core philosophy of MUJ.

Careers360: What roles do advanced laboratories and research centres play in shaping the university’s academic ecosystem?

MUJ: Advanced laboratories and research centres allow students to be more hands-on with learning, curious to research further. State-of-the-art equipment arms students with all requisite tools to learn and innovate.

Careers360: Could you highlight some of the state-of-the-art labs and facilities available for students and researchers across disciplines?

MUJ: The university has centralised research facilities. This includes the Sophisticated Analytical Instrument Facility (SAIF) and the Central Analytical Facilities (CAF). These state-of-the-art resources are available to all researchers and students across academic disciplines.

These facilities have state-of-the-art equipment that serves as the backbone for all research projects spanning across science and engineering departments as well as others. The primary purpose of these high-end facilities is to enable and empower researchers with the cutting-edge technology for scientific research.

Careers360: How does the university ensure that its infrastructure keeps pace with rapidly evolving technologies and industry requirements?

MUJ: A high-power committee looks at the overall progress and requirements as mentioned in the “Institutional Development Plan 2030”. Each area – academics, infrastructure, collaborations, NEP etc are all looked at very closely. The committee recommends various steps and processes to allow the university not just to keep pace with the evolving world but also to ensure that its vision is met effectively.

Manipal University Jaipur’s Directorate of Academic Administration coordinates the academic activities but also works consistently & diligently to ensure that curricula are on par with industry standards and expectations. In addition, the Directorate of Research (DOR) coordinates all research activities within the university. DoR has established 9 Research Centres in various emerging science and technology areas to promote excellence in research and build state-of-the-art facilities.

Careers360: In what ways are students encouraged to use research facilities beyond their regular coursework?

MUJ: Students are actively encouraged to participate in research activities through initiatives such as Publication and Research Award Incentive for Students to Excel (PRAISE). Other initiatives available are Short-term Research Fellowships and Student Travel Grants for International Internships. The facilities, labs and mentor faculty are available to students interested in research beyond academics. Industry sponsorship and collaborations are the other incentives for students.

Careers360: How important is interdisciplinary infrastructure in promoting innovation and collaborative research at the university?

MUJ: Innovation and collaborative research are not remotely possible without an interdisciplinary infrastructure. It is for this reason that the centralised research facilities exist and are accessible across disciplines. These facilities include the Sophisticated Analytical Instrument Facility (SAIF) and Central Analytical Facilities (CAF), to name a few. The Directorate of Research (DOR) has been set up to coordinate and encourage the same.

Also Read: Manipal University Admissions

Careers360: How do industry partnerships contribute to the development of labs, innovation hubs, and research spaces on campus?

MUJ: Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) features multiple industry-sponsored infrastructure that have been set up with an aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry. The various partnerships include sponsored projects, hands-on training with cutting-edge tools and infrastructure.

Some examples:

1. Centre for Cyber Protection & Digital Security- The centre is powered by an advanced Cyberange ecosystem and 16 specialized verticals. It provides training in cyber resilience and critical infrastructure protection.

2. Mahindra & Mahindra Lab: Automotive students get access to advanced automotive tools, cut-section models, and turbocharged engines (like the M-Hawk).

3. Software Development Centre (SDC): This is more of an experiential learning facility acting like an industry-like workspace. Here students develop and manage real-world software portfolios.

4. LEED Lab: GBCI and USGBC are the collaborators for this. Students of Architecture and Planning get direct exposure to green rating systems and sustainability certifications.

5. IBM: Set up for focused programmes and research on cloud computing, cybersecurity, and big data analytics.

6. Semiconductors & VLSI: Partnership with Truechip to advance low-power VLSI education, design challenges, and SoC integration.

7. IT & Technology: Dedicated labs and curriculum integrations are held with industry leaders like Cisco, Microsoft, AWS, Oracle, and SAP.

In addition, Manipal University Jaipur holds research MoUs with the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Rajasthan and IC-IMPACTS (University of British Columbia) for tech demonstrations.

Careers360: What facilities are available for startups, incubation, prototyping, and student-led innovation initiatives?

MUJ: Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) offers a robust, student-centric ecosystem for start-ups, prototyping and innovation. Some examples are

1. Atal Incubation Centre (AIC-MUJ) – It offers pre-incubation, venture studio support, and access to seed grants.

2. In-House Incubation Centre: Supervised by internal and external professional experts, the centre allows students to transform their ideas into viable ventures.

3. Prototyping & Technology Labs AR/VR/MR Lab And Advanced Manufacturing & Prototyping: Students get access to 3D printing, advanced computing labs, and industry-standard software.

4. Domain-Specific Labs: Most of the domains have their related labs

5. Student-Led Innovation & Ideation Initiatives like E-Cell (Entrepreneurship Cell)

Careers360: How are AI, robotics, IoT, data science, or emerging technology labs transforming learning experiences for students?

MUJ: The learning experience at MUJ is reshaped in many ways. State-of-the-art labs, an evolving curriculum that matches the industry requirements and keeps upcoming trends in mind, research and innovation are some factors that help shape and transform learning experiences at MUJ. Some steps in this direction are:

The IoT and Intelligent Systems Lab helps train students in machine learning, deep learning, and IoT. Development of practical projects across smart agriculture, healthcare, and Industry 4.0 applications is encouraged and sponsored.

Students are encouraged to customise their degrees with minors in drone technology, data analytics, and IoT systems. Industry Alignment & Research, Student-Driven Innovation Teams also contribute to this transformation.

Disclaimer: The above article has been published as a marketing collaboration between Manipal University Jaipur and Careers360.