Current Vacancies for PhD students: Zero (0) for the July 2026 intake.
What to expect during your PhD?
During the PhD, the candidate demonstrates independent thinking and generates novel ideas. Therefore, it is important to understand the PhD journey at UFO-CHIP in more detail.
Our research group looks into fundamental and applied aspects of photonics, and therefore, a solid understanding of photonics/RF systems/Communications is required. Students typically read papers, identify problems and simulate problems within the first year. Year 2 onwards, students typically work on experimentation.
Collaboration is at the heart of our work. The nature of our research is highly collaborative, and the group environment is very supportive. We welcome anyone who works well within a team environment.
From 7 January 2019 to date (28 January 2026), we have graduated 4 Full-time PhD students. The current average time spent actively working in the UFO-CHIP group as a PhD student until thesis submission is 4.4 years.
(Part-time students are also welcome to join the group. The amount of time they can spend on research is understandably lower than that of full-time students, so the time to graduate may be slightly longer. Average time for thesis submission for part-time students in our lab is 5.3 years.)
Typical PhD Journey*
Within 3 months of joining IIT Delhi, an SRC consisting of 3-4 faculty members is formed. The purpose of the SRC is to monitor the student's progress and provide suggestions.
The SRC also awards a grade each semester: Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory (U Grade). 2 consecutive U Grades result in termination of candidature.
After joining, the candidate has to complete a comprehensive exam within 18 months. This includes a written exam and a research proposal presentation. After clearing this stage, the candidate is officially a PhD student.
In EE, the student has to complete 12 credits (MTech Intake), or 24 Credits (BTech intake), before the comprehensive exam.
The next step is the synopsis, where the student presents their thesis plan, which has to be approved by the SRC
The student then writes and submits the thesis typically within 3 months of the Synopsis. On the date of submission, the stipend stops. The stipend also automatically stops after 5 years of enrollment.
The thesis is sent to 2 examiners, and based on the feedback, the student may be invited for a viva. After a successful defence, the student is officially a Doctor!
*There may be some variations based on circumstances.
Final Thoughts: Pursuing a PhD is a significant commitment (PhD funding is for 5 years), and finding the right environment is essential for a fulfilling experience. Therefore, we strongly encourage prospective students to meet Amol and members of the research group to ensure a good fit before making their final decision.
A PhD should be an exciting, intellectually stimulating, and enjoyable journey. We wish you the very best as you embark on this path!