IIT Kanpur launches flagship project to develop most advanced artificial heart

The programme is open to basic sciences, medical and engineering graduates or graduates of any stream with relevant experience. Candidates can apply through the link, https://iitk-smrt-hridyantra.co.in/, till January 30, 2022.

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, in collaboration with various hospitals, launched Hridyantra, a project aimed at developing next-generation solutions for patients with end-stage heart failure. 

The project is a flagship programme under IIT Kanpur’s upcoming School of Medical Research and Technology (SMRT) to develop the world’s most advanced artificial heart (left ventricular assist device (LVAD)). 
LVAD or artificial heart is a pump that is used in patients with end-stage heart failure as a bridge while awaiting a heart transplant or as a destination therapy for those unable to go in for a transplant. It is an implantable battery-operated, mechanical pump, which helps the left ventricle (main pumping chamber of the heart) pump blood to the rest of the body. 

The programme offers one-of-its-kind opportunity to develop the world’s most advanced heart assist device and launch one’s own venture, with a living allowance, and access to global MedTech industry mentors. 

The programme is currently accepting applications until January 30, 2022, through the link - https://iitk-smrt-hridyantra.co.in/  

The execution of the competition will commence with the deployment of a multi-disciplinary team of fellows who will undergo clinical immersion at Narayana Health Hospitals for understanding the clinical nuances associated with cardiac surgery. Upon completing their clinical immersion, the fellows will move to IIT Kanpur to begin the product development process under the project.  

Eligibility criteria 

The minimum eligibility criteria for candidates is a bachelor’s degree in any relevant basic sciences, engineering or medical sciences discipline or a graduate in any stream with related experience. Candidates should be team players, with a penchant for creativity and problem solving. 
Abhay Karandikar, Director, IIT Kanpur, said, “IIT Kanpur is known for its pioneering role in launching high-impact projects in the fields of entrepreneurship and innovation. With Hridyantra, we are moving another step forward in realising our vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) by supporting indigenous talent with critical R&D support.” 
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