IITM

Learn About Us

HGC Lab

Our HGC Lab at IIT Madras specialize in Hydro-climatology and Geospatial data science. Our primary focus is on addressing the underlying physical mechanisms driving various hydro-climatic processes. We develop innovative, process-based and data-driven modelling framework for accurate monitoring and prediction of extreme weather events and for effective water resources management. We integrate the process level understanding of water and climate science with state-of-the-art statistic, machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL) and data assimilation techniques to address critical water-related challenges in changing climate. To achieve this, we harness the advantages of big data such as Remote Sensing, Hydrologic and Climatic Model simulation, and ground observation products.

We are a deeply collaborative and interdisciplinary research group that actively seeks partnerships with industry and academic institutions globally. By delivering actionable scientific insights and solutions, we seek to empower policymakers, stakeholders, and communities worldwide to make informed decisions and foster sustainable practices for the ecosystem.

If you share a common research interest and are looking to explore further or bring innovative ideas to related fields, we’d be happy to connect and hear from you.

To deliver advanced scientific insights and sustainable solutions that contribute to the resilience and effective management of water resources. We aim to work collaboratively with government organisation and industry to develop actionable tools and strategies that help predict and mitigate the repercussions of extreme weather events in the changing climate.

Our Core Values

Equity & Inclusion

Creating an safe and welcoming lab environment where all members are treated with respect and where diversity of backgrounds and perspectives is valued

Collaboration

Fostering a culture of teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration to harness a wide range of expertise and technical skills for impactful research outcomes

Continued Learning

Encouraging a culture of continuous learning and professional development, staying current with the latest advancements in the field

Our Supporters

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Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)

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Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)

Our Research Directions

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Hydrologic Modelling

Developing advanced hydrologic models that combine data-driven approaches with process-based understanding to accurately predict different hydrological variables.

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Geospatial Data Science

Utilising large-scale remote sensing and model-based datasets, combined with ground observations, to advance Earth sciences through cutting-edge advancements in Artificial Intelligence, including Machine Learning and Deep Learning.

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Climate Studies & Extremes

We utilise outputs from global and regional climate models to study climatic extremes and their impacts on water resources. Our work also includes attribution studies to analyse anthropogenic and natural drivers of climate variability, and the regionalization of climate zones by accounting for non-stationarity in hydro-meteorological variables, improving understanding of regional risks and vulnerabilities.

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Design of Hydro-meteorological Monitoring Network

Optimal design of ground-based hydro-meteorological networks to strengthen monitoring and observatory systems. This involves integrating existing in-situ measurements with model outputs and remote sensing observations, thereby enhancing data collection for improved monitoring and prediction of different hydrologic extremes.

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Sustainable Water Reosurces Management

Integrates socio-hydrologic perspectives with physical and data-driven hydro-climatic modeling to design sustainable practices that adapt to changing climatic conditions and build resilient ecosystems. We also emphasise on integrating scientific insights with policy and community-level decision-making, ensuring water resource management strategies are equitable, adaptive, and futuristic.