The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has announced the appointment of Prof. Anil K. Lalwani, M.D., as the Inaugural Dean of the Gangwal School of Medical Sciences & Technology (GSMST). A renowned physician-scientist, educator, and innovator, Prof. Lalwani’s appointment marks a significant milestone for the institute.

Prof. Lalwani is currently a Professor of Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, and Throat) and Mechanical Engineering at Columbia University. He also serves as Associate Dean (Student Research) and Vice Chair (Research). In addition, he is the Co-Director of the Cochlear Implant Center at the Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and serves as Medical Director at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

He has also worked at New York University and the University of California, San Francisco.

Prof. Lalwani is among the leading experts in the field of hearing disorders and surgical innovation. His research, supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), focuses on genetics, gene therapy for hearing disorders, and advanced technologies for drug delivery to the inner ear. His work represents a strong integration of engineering and medicine.

He has published over 275 research papers and has an h-index of 75. He has also authored several important books that are available in multiple languages. He is the Founding Editor of the journal Frontiers in Audiology and Otology.

Prof. Lalwani has been associated with several prominent organisations, including serving on the Advisory Council of the National Institute on Deafness and Communication Disorders (NIH) and the Hearing Health Foundation. He has received several recognitions, including the ARO Innovator Award in 2026.

This appointment reflects IIT Kanpur’s commitment to advancing healthcare through modern technologies such as digital health, medical robotics, and advanced medical devices, to deliver high-quality and affordable healthcare.

Under Prof. Lalwani’s leadership, the Gangwal School of Medical Sciences & Technology is expected to emerge as a leading institution in India and globally.