About the IPDF Program at IIT Bombay
The Institute Post-Doctoral Fellowship (IPDF) at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) aims to nurture promising early-career researchers by providing a platform for academic and research excellence. The program is hosted across the Institute’s diverse academic departments, interdisciplinary centres, and cutting-edge schools.
IIT Bombay invites applications for its prestigious Institute Post-Doctoral Fellowship (IPDF) program across various departments, centres, and interdisciplinary schools. Designed for early-career researchers, the fellowship offers a stimulating environment to pursue independent research with world-class faculty. The initial tenure is one year, extendable to a second year based on performance.
IIT Bombay, located in Powai, Mumbai, is one of India’s premier technical institutions and a globally recognized leader in research, education, and innovation. The IPDF program provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with leading faculty, access advanced facilities, and contribute to high-impact research.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold a PhD or expect to receive one shortly in a discipline relevant to the department or centre they wish to join. The following criteria apply:
- PhD must be completed from a recognized institution (Indian or international).
- Strong academic and research track record.
- Publication in reputed peer-reviewed journals.
- Demonstrated potential for independent research.
- Preference may be given to candidates under the age of 35 at the time of application.
Candidates with prior postdoctoral
Departments and Research Areas
IPDF positions are available across the Institute’s wide range of academic units. Applicants are encouraged to review individual department research interests and faculty profiles before applying. Fields include but are not limited to:
- Engineering: Aerospace, Chemical, Civil, Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Metallurgical, etc.
- Sciences: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biosciences, Earth Sciences
- Humanities & Social Sciences: Philosophy, Sociology, Economics, Linguistics
- Interdisciplinary Centres: Nanotechnology, Environmental Science and Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Energy Science and Engineering
Fellowship Benefits and Support
The IPDF program at IIT Bombay offers a comprehensive package that supports research, collaboration, and professional development:
- Monthly Fellowship: Competitive stipend (as per institute norms, updated annually)
- Research Grant: To support project-related expenses including materials, consumables, and equipment usage
- Contingency Allowance: For travel, conferences, and training
- Host Faculty Collaboration: Fellows will work closely with a faculty mentor from the host department or centre
- Access to Research Facilities: Centralized labs, libraries, HPC clusters, and interdisciplinary infrastructure
Duration and Extension
The initial appointment under the IPDF scheme is for one year. Subject to a satisfactory review of academic and research performance, the fellowship may be extended for an additional one year. Continuation is based on:
- Research output (publications, patents, presentations)
- Participation in academic and departmental activities
- Feedback from the supervising faculty member and department
No further extension beyond the two-year period is permitted under this scheme.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the IIT Bombay online recruitment portal. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, allowing flexibility in timing.
Required Documents:
- Detailed CV with academic record and publication list
- Statement of purpose (including proposed area of research)
- Names and contact information of two academic referees
- Copy of PhD certificate (or provisional certificate)
- Brief proposal or research plan
- Email correspondence with a potential host faculty member (recommended but not mandatory)
Candidates are advised to directly approach potential mentors at IIT Bombay to explore alignment in research interests before submitting their applications.
Selection Process
The selection involves multiple levels of review:
- Initial Screening by the host department or centre
- Faculty Evaluation of research proposal and background
- Recommendation by the department to the institute-level committee
- FinalApproval by the Post-Doctoral Fellowship Committee
Candidates may be invited for virtual or in-person interviews if required.
Why Choose IIT Bombay for Postdoctoral Research?
IIT Bombay is globally ranked among the top institutions for research and innovation. Postdoctoral fellows benefit from:
- A vibrant, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research ecosystem
- World-class faculty and infrastructure
- Access to funding, patents, and technology transfer mechanisms
- Proximity to Mumbai’s growing tech and innovation ecosystem
The Institute emphasizes academic freedom, innovation, and the pursuit of high-impact research.
Final Thoughts
The Institute Post-Doctoral Fellowship (IPDF) at IIT Bombay is an outstanding opportunity for emerging scholars to advance their research careers in a highly respected academic environment. With funding, mentorship, and access to world-class facilities, the program offers a strong foundation for future academic, research, or industry roles.
Program Overview
Feature | Details |
Program Name | Institute Post-Doctoral Fellowship (IPDF) |
Host Institution | Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) |
Duration | 1 year (extendable for 1 additional year based on academic performance) |
Location | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
Eligibility | PhD holders in relevant disciplines with demonstrated research excellence |
Study Mode | Full-time, in-person research engagement |
Fields of Study | Engineering, Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Interdisciplinary Research Areas |
Financial Support | Monthly fellowship, research grant, and contingency allowance |
Application Deadline | Rolling basis (Applications accepted year-round) |
Official Website | Click here |
🔗 Apply Here: https://www.iitb.ac.in/career/apply
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The IPDF at IIT Bombay offers PhD holders a one-year research fellowship, extendable for another year, across various academic disciplines.
PhD holders under the age of 35 with a strong academic background and research potential are eligible to apply.
Yes, the fellowship includes a monthly stipend, research grant, and contingency allowance to support postdoctoral research.
The fellowship is awarded for one year initially and can be extended by another year based on performance.
Applicants must apply to one department but may indicate interdisciplinary interests or request guidance from multiple faculty members.
You must apply online through IIT Bombay’s official recruitment portal with a proposal, CV, and supporting documents.
Yes, the program is open to both Indian and international applicants with valid PhD credentials.
“IIT Bombay encourages proposals in science, engineering, social sciences, and interdisciplinary fields aligned with its expertise.”
Applications are accepted year-round. The next review cycle is expected in January 2026.
While not mandatory, identifying and contacting a prospective faculty mentor is highly recommended for a successful application.
