IKST Visiting Program for Students and Researchers (UG, PG, Postdocs) – Fully Funded Academic Research Exchange in India and South Korea
What is the IKST Visiting Program?
The Visiting Program by the Indo-Korea Science and Technology Center (IKST) is a flagship bilateral initiative developed to facilitate academic mobility and scientific collaboration between India and the Republic of Korea. It offers short-term research fellowships to students and early-career researchers across science and engineering disciplines. Administered jointly by CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, India) and KIST (Korea Institute of Science and Technology), this program allows participants to engage in research training at globally recognized laboratories and institutions. Program durations generally range from 4 to 12 weeks, with research visits conducted either in India or South Korea.
The IKST Visiting Program provides a fully funded opportunity for undergraduate, postgraduate, and postdoctoral scholars to gain advanced research experience in India and South Korea. This initiative strengthens Indo-Korean academic ties through short-term, collaborative scientific engagements.
Objectives of the IKST Visiting Program
The IKST Visiting Program is guided by a set of clearly defined academic and research-oriented
Encouraging early exposure to advanced research ecosystems for undergraduate and graduate students.
Providing practical training in frontier technologies through hands-on lab experience.
Promoting collaborative Indo-Korean research projects in areas of mutual scientific interest.
Fostering international research networks that strengthen the global visibility of Indian and Korean institutions.
Supporting the development of a next-generation workforce in science and technology (S&T) with cross-border competencies.
Who Can Apply?
The program is designed to accommodate a wide spectrum of academic backgrounds and professional levels. The following categories of applicants are eligible:
| Applicant Category | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Students (UG) | Final-year students or highly meritorious pre-final year students in science or engineering |
| Postgraduate Students (PG) | Enrolled in M.Sc., M.Tech., or equivalent science/engineering programs |
| PhD Scholars | Registered doctoral candidates with ongoing research in IKST-relevant fields |
| Postdoctoral Researchers | Early-career researchers engaged in or having completed postdoctoral research |
| Faculty & Scientists | Affiliated with Indian R&D labs or academic institutions seeking joint research exposure |
Important: Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic excellence and align their proposals with IKST’s current research priorities. Institutional endorsement is often a prerequisite.
Key Research Domains Supported
The IKST Visiting Program targets interdisciplinary, high-impact scientific
Artificial Intelligence and Big Data in Materials Science
Exploring AI-driven models for accelerating materials discovery and predictive simulation.Clean and Renewable Energy Materials
Investigating battery technology, hydrogen fuel systems, and sustainable energy materials.Nanoscience and Advanced Functional Materials
Design and synthesis of novel nanomaterials for biomedical and industrial applications.Computational Chemistry and Theoretical Physics
Simulations, modeling, and algorithm development for molecular-scale phenomena.Sensors, Robotics, and Embedded Automation
Development of sensor-integrated systems for automation and real-time data acquisition.Biomedical Engineering and Life Sciences
Research in drug delivery, diagnostics, and bioinformatics aligned with health priorities.
The program encourages applicants to propose ideas that align with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in energy, healthcare, and environmental technologies.
Program Features and Financial Support
The IKST Visiting Program is comprehensively funded, covering all major costs associated with short-term international research stays. Key benefits include:
Travel Assistance: Round-trip airfare and support with visa processing.
Accommodation and Local Support: Lodging and daily allowances
during the research visit.Lab Access: Entry to state-of-the-art research infrastructure at IKST, KIST, or affiliated institutions.
Mentorship: Academic guidance from experienced faculty and research scientists.
Certification: Issuance of a formal certificate upon successful completion of the program.
Future Collaboration: Potential for joint publications, continued project engagement, or future academic enrollment (e.g., joint PhD or postdoc).
The program is designed not just to offer funding but to cultivate long-term Indo-Korean research partnerships and nurture leadership in innovation.
Duration and Format of Visits
Typical Duration: 4 to 12 weeks
Mode: In-person (onsite visits to Indian or Korean research labs)
Application Timing: Open year-round (rolling intake model)
Flexible Format: Hybrid arrangements may be permitted in select cases depending on institutional approval and project nature.
Applicants are advised to apply well in advance to secure preferred timelines and mentor availability.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Application Materials
Candidates must gather and prepare the following documents:
A detailed and updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting academic achievements.
A Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining the motivation behind applying, proposed research interests, and alignment
with IKST’s themes.A Letter of Recommendation from the academic supervisor or head of department.
An optional list of preferred research domains or potential mentors (if previously identified).
Step 2: Visit the Official Website
Applicants must refer to the IKST Visiting Program official page for application forms, eligibility updates, and submission links.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Depending on the current call cycle, applications may be submitted:
Directly via the online portal, or
Through email submission as per instructions on the official site.
Ensure that all documents are submitted in the prescribed format.
Step 4: Review and Interview Process
Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an online interview or discussion with assigned IKST/KIST mentors. Evaluation criteria include:
Research alignment
Academic readiness
Communication skills
Long-term collaboration potential
Step 5: Acceptance and Visa Arrangements
Successful candidates will receive:
A formal offer letter,
Assistance with visa documentation,
Travel and lodging instructions for their visit.
Applicants are advised to initiate visa processing immediately upon selection.
Why Consider the IKST Visiting Program?
The program delivers substantial value to participants through:
International Research Exposure: Enhance your academic training by engaging with globally recognized scientists and labs.
Skill Development: Gain firsthand experience in interdisciplinary research methods and lab practices.
Career Advancement: Bolster your academic profile with international collaboration experience and recommendations.
Long-Term Networking: Develop valuable connections for future PhD, postdoctoral, or collaborative project opportunities.
Participation in such a program signals a serious commitment to research and global academic standards.
Testimonials from Past Participants
“My experience at KIST through IKST was intellectually enriching. I was involved in materials simulation using AI tools, which helped me shape my master’s thesis and future research goals.”
— Megha S., M.Tech Scholar, IIT Delhi“The opportunity to work with Korean scientists not only helped me publish my first international article but also provided me with a lasting academic partnership.”
— Dr. Arvind R., Postdoctoral Fellow, CSIR Lab
These testimonials reflect the program’s ability to create meaningful academic experiences and sustained collaboration.
Important Application Tips
Match Your Research Goals: Align your proposal with IKST’s current research areas to improve your chances of selection.
Be Ready with Documents: Start compiling your SOP and letters of recommendation early.
Track Rolling Deadlines: Although open year-round, early submission ensures priority review
Final Thoughts
The IKST Visiting Program stands out as a meaningful academic platform connecting Indian and Korean researchers through immersive, interdisciplinary training. Whether you’re a budding undergraduate innovator or a postdoctoral scholar seeking international collaboration, this program equips you with essential tools to excel in global science and technology.
The initiative exemplifies how academic diplomacy and research exchange can shape the next generation of scientists capable of addressing shared global challenges.
Suggested Review Cycle
Next Content Update: Review content in April 2026 based on new application cycle announcements and partner institute updates.
Quick Program Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | IKST Visiting Program for UG, PG, Postdoctoral Scholars, and Faculty |
| Host Country | India and South Korea |
| Funded By | IKST (CSIR & KIST collaboration) |
| Duration | 4–12 weeks |
| Study Mode | In-person (Physical Visits) |
| Eligibility | UG, PG, PhD Scholars, Postdocs, Faculty |
| Financial Support | Travel, Accommodation, Lab Access, Certification |
| Fields of Study | AI, Nanotech, Energy, Biomedical, Chemistry, Robotics |
| Deadline | Rolling (Next cycle: April 2026 – Exact date to be updated soon) |
| Official Website | IKST Visiting Program official page |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD students, postdocs, and faculty in science or engineering fields can apply, provided their research aligns with IKST’s focus areas.
Yes, IKST provides full funding including airfare, accommodation, lab access, and local support for selected candidates during their research stay.
The program typically lasts between 4 and 12 weeks, depending on the project and mentor availability.
You need to submit a CV, SOP, recommendation letter, and optionally list mentors, either via the IKST portal or email as instructed.
The program supports AI in materials science, clean energy, nanotech, robotics, computational chemistry, and biomedical sciences.
Yes, international applicants from partner institutions are eligible, especially those collaborating with IKST or KIST researchers.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but early submissions are advised due to limited mentor slots.
Yes, participants receive an official certificate upon successful completion of the research visit.
You may suggest preferred mentors or areas of research, but final allocation depends on project alignment and availability.
You must submit a CV, SOP, academic recommendation, and a list of research interests or mentors, following IKST’s guidelines.
