SPECIAL REPORT: FAN 2025
Celebrating Global Synergies in Research, Innovation, and Alumni Impact at the Georgia Institute of Technology
The Faculty Alumni Network (FAN) Meet 2025, held at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta from June 20–22, 2025, brought together an exceptional community of faculty, alumni, industry leaders, and researchers. Co-hosted by IIT Bombay, the IITB Heritage Foundation, and the Georgia Institute of Technology, the event saw a full house, reaffirming the strong global connections and a shared commitment to advancing science, technology, and societal impact.
Click the link below to view a photo montage capturing memorable moments from FAN 2025.
The meet featured an outstanding lineup of speakers and moderators, sparking rich conversations on emerging technologies, engineering education, biotech, advanced logistics, and translational research. The energy throughout the sessions reflected the collective vision of building stronger academia-industry bridges and empowering future generations of innovators.
The Keynote Speakers included
- Ms. Karie Davis-Nozemack
- Prof. Krishnendu Roy
- Shri. Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan
- Prof. Shireesh Kedare
Following the inspiring keynotes, the FAN 2025 meet unfolded into six dynamic thematic sessions designed to spark cross-disciplinary conversations and showcase cutting-edge research and industry trends. From transformative advances in health and biotech to the future of semiconductors, green supply chains, and next-generation manufacturing, each session brought together faculty, alumni, and global thought leaders. The sessions provided a rich platform to exchange ideas, highlight collaborations, and explore new pathways for academia-industry synergy — reinforcing IIT Bombay’s commitment to driving innovation that shapes our shared future.
The following is the list of distinguished speakers and session moderators who brought these discussions to life and some of the key takeaways from the panels and breakout sessions
Innovation in Engineering Education
Key Takeaways
Teaching students how to learn and fostering lifelong learning emerged as priorities. Faculty development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and student mentoring were identified as key enablers. Innovations in pedagogy—led by centres like CTL—are already gaining traction.
Health/Biotech
Key Takeaways:
IIT Bombay’s progress in affordable healthcare tech was noted, alongside a call for deeper clinical and industrial linkages. AI/ML, gene therapies, and rural health solutions hold promise. Joint clinical trials, faculty exchanges, and philanthropic partnerships could accelerate impact.
Advanced Logistics, Transportation, Green Supply Chain
Key Takeaways
India’s ambition to reduce logistics costs demands climate-resilient infrastructure and lifecycle-driven sustainability. Automation in warehousing and delivery is reshaping logistics. A systems approach is essential for building green, future-ready supply chains.
IoT / Industry 4.0 / 5.0
Key Takeaways
While tech capabilities are in place, challenges like data interoperability and fragmented systems persist. Human-centric aspects—trust, training, change management—remain vital. AI/ML presents major opportunities but must be thoughtfully integrated.
Semi-X
Key Takeaways
India can lead in areas like packaging, power devices, and edge computing. The need for aligned government-academia-industry collaboration and pre-competitive research was highlighted. AI accelerators and advanced packaging emerged as high-potential niches.
Translational Research and Entrepreneurship
Key Takeaways
Stronger industry-academia partnerships and faculty focus on solving real-world problems were seen as critical. Lab-level technology de-risking, mentoring startups through industry engagement, incentivizing entrepreneurial work, and scaling innovations via hubs like TRYST were emphasized.
The event concluded with inspiring closing remarks by Prof. Ravindra D. Gudi and Prof. Upal Ghosh, highlighting the importance of sustained alumni engagement, cross-border collaborations, and the shared pursuit of excellence.
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FAN 2025 at the Georgia Institute of Technology stands as a testament to IIT Bombay’s relentless commitment to nurturing a global community dedicated to innovation, academic excellence, and societal progress. The meaningful exchanges and connections made during these sessions will continue to shape the future of technology and research worldwide.