Chennai : A landmark collaboration between the premier universities of Australia and India, Deakin University and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) launched the IIT Madras – Deakin University Research Academy last year. The academy offers a Joint PhD program in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), designed for future-ready global leaders.
This groundbreaking initiative is designed to foster innovative research, support industry collaboration, and create an ecosystem that nurtures the next generation of graduate research scholars.
Applications for the 2025 round are now open. Students can apply via the IIT Madras website before 31 March 2025.
A strong partnership for Deakin
The partnership between Deakin and IIT Madras has played a vital role in strengthening our academic and research connections with India. Each year, 30 scholarships will be awarded to exceptional PhD candidates in science, engineering, technology, climate change, energy, advanced manufacturing, AI, and many more.
The research will aim to contribute to the socio-economic development of both nations and create solutions with a global impact.
You can view the research project list on the IIT Madras website.
About the Joint PhD program
This is a doctoral cotutelle project where the successful candidates will be jointly supervised by a team of leading researchers from both Deakin and IIT Madras. Students will graduate with a doctoral degree from each institution.
Throughout this fully funded program, students will spend two to three years in their home institution and one year in the host institution. Candidates can choose to start in Australia or India, with some exceptions.
The joint PhD program offers the following:
- Dual testamurs: Earn PhD degrees from both IIT Madras and Deakin University.
- International exposure: Work and travel between two world-class institutions and immerse yourself in diverse academic environments.
- Funding and support: Scholarships and relocation expenses to support your academic journey.
- Advanced resources: Access state-of-the-art research facilities and tools at both institutions.
- Collaborative network: Become part of a vibrant research community that includes industry partnerships.
- World-class faculty: Receive joint supervision from renowned experts at IIT Madras and Deakin University.
About the research academy
The IIT Madras – Deakin University Research Academy aims to drive forward-thinking research with the potential to influence policy and decision-making at both bilateral and multilateral levels.
Since the partnership began in 2024,16 PhD students have started their doctoral studies, and another five will commence this month as part of this exciting program.
Through joint supervision, collaborative global research projects and merit-based scholarships, this partnership will help develop highly talented PhD candidates who are ready to address and solve urgent global challenges.
More information
For more information about the Joint PhD program, or to apply, visit the IIT Madras website.
If you would like to contact someone you can email iitm-deakin@deakin.edu.au.
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