Global health to cutting-edge research: BITS Pilani, OHT launch Ph.D. in Data Sciences

Hyderabad: Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, and One Health Trust (OHT) have agreed to launch a Ph.D. program in Data Sciences to train graduates and postgraduates on current global health issues and cutting-edge research methodology, with rigorous fieldwork and data analysis.

The unique full-time interdisciplinary degree will provide advanced education in global health along with expertise in statistical/quantitative and qualitative skills to future students.

Applications for the doctoral program are open till 31 March 2023.

The first cohort will begin coursework in July 2023. Students will take courses and conduct research at both BITS Pilani, Hyderabad, and at the Nimai Valley Center of the One Health Trust, set to open in January 2024. One Health Trust was founded as CDDEP, a health research organization.

Speaking at the Foundation Stone-laying ceremony of the One Health Trust, Dr. K. Sudhakar, Karnataka Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Medical Education said, " The Honorable Prime Minister of our country, wherever he addresses meetings or gatherings among health sections, he always focuses on a 'holistic health approach', meaning balanced well-being of physical and mental health. And, for this initiative, One Health Trust has planned to start a Ph.D. program related to this in our district. This is the first institution that is starting a Ph.D. course in the entire district, for which I convey my acknowledgments to the founder."

Prof. G. Sundar, Senior Professor and Director of BITS Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, affirmed: "The rigorous research and data analysis expertise of OHT will serve to greatly strengthen data-driven public health policymaking in the country, and thus raise the levels of overall well-being. We look forward to jointly creating solutions to some of the challenging problems the nation faces today."

Professor Ramanan Laxminarayan, founder and president of the One Health Trust said, "The future of the health of our planet and its inhabitants depends on a better understanding of the underlying processes that connect us using data sciences. OHT is delighted to be partnering with BITS Pilani to offer this unique Ph.D. program, which will emphasize cutting-edge skills in data sciences, and generate tomorrow's leaders in solving the major challenges of global health by working with communities in India who are most affected by them."

Interested students can visit here for more details