IIT Madras, Nemetschek Group Ink MoU for Low-Carbon, Lean Construction R&D

On November 21, 2025, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and the Nemetschek Group, a global leader in digital transformation solutions for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations (AEC/O) industries, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a research partnership focused on low-carbon and lean construction practices.

Overview of the Partnership

This collaboration will take place under the Centre of Excellence titled “Technologies for Low-Carbon and Lean Construction (TLC2),” which is funded by the Nemetschek Group’s AI and Data Innovation Hub. The signing ceremony was held at IIT Madras and included key figures from both organizations.

Key Participants

• Pete Nicholson: Senior Vice President – High Growth Regions, Nemetschek Group
• Raghi Iyengar: Vice President – Manufacton Business, Nemetschek Group
• Deepankar Bhattacharya: Sr. General Manager – Education, Nemetschek Group
• Prof. Ashwin Mahalingam: Dean (Alumni & Corporate Relations) and Professor of Civil Engineering, IIT Madras
• Prof. Koshy Varghese: Professor of Civil Engineering, IIT Madras
• Prof. Manu Santhanam: Dean (Industrial Consultancy & Sponsored Research), IIT Madras

Objectives of the MoU

The partnership aims to advance innovation and sustainable development in India’s construction sector. By integrating applied research in low-carbon and lean construction with advanced AI technologies, the collaboration seeks to enhance productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in the industry.

Statements from Leadership

Pete Nicholson emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “This partnership with IIT Madras highlights Nemetschek’s commitment to advancing innovation and sustainable development in India’s construction sector. By combining applied research in low-carbon and lean construction with powerful AI technologies ethically, we aim to accelerate productivity, efficiency, and sustainability—essential for meeting the demands of India’s extensive infrastructure investments.”

Charles Sheridan, Chief AI and Data Officer at Nemetschek Group, added, “Our investment in the TLC2 Centre of Excellence reflects Nemetschek’s dedication to integrating cutting-edge AI and sustainable technologies in construction. Collaborations like this empower us to co-create impactful solutions, leverage academic excellence, and accelerate digital transformation in the Indian AEC industry.”

Areas of Collaboration

The MoU outlines several areas of collaboration, including:

• Joint research projects focusing on sustainable construction technologies.
• Advisory and visiting appointments for faculty and industry experts.
• Employee continuing education programs.
• Curriculum development support to integrate Nemetschek’s digital tools with civil engineering programs.
• Short-term training programs for students and professionals.
• Potential presence in the IIT Madras Research Park.
• Campus recruitment opportunities for IIT Madras students.

Impact on Academic Programs

Prof. Ashwin Mahalingam expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, noting, “Our engagement with Nemetschek offers a unique opportunity to advance cutting-edge research in sustainable construction technologies. The partnership empowers our faculty and students to work closely with industry pioneers to address real-world challenges, particularly in digital fabrication and modular construction, enhancing the impact of our academic programs.”

Significance of the Collaboration

The collaboration between Nemetschek Group and IIT Madras is expected to set a benchmark for transformative partnerships in India’s education and construction sectors. By leveraging Nemetschek’s global presence and technology leadership alongside IIT Madras’s premier academic and research capabilities, both organizations aim to create impactful solutions that address the pressing challenges in the construction industry.

Previous Collaborations

This initiative follows Nemetschek’s existing collaborations with institutions such as CIFE, Stanford University, and NTU Singapore, further solidifying its role as a leader in the digitalization of the built environment.

Conclusion

The MoU between IIT Madras and the Nemetschek Group represents a significant step towards fostering sustainable practices in construction through innovation and research. As both organizations embark on this journey, the outcomes are anticipated to benefit not only the academic community but also the broader construction industry in India.

Note: This article is based on the information available as of November 21, 2025, and is subject to change as the partnership progresses.