Post-Doctoral Research Programs
Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.), Doctor of Science (D.Sc.), and Doctor of Laws (LL.D.)
NIILM University proudly offers prestigious post-doctoral degree programs for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional academic excellence, research output, and professional contributions in their respective fields, with a proven record of exceptional research, publications, and professional impact. The University offers the following Post-Doctoral programs:
- D.Litt. (Doctor of Letters): A post-doctoral research program in the humanities, social sciences, Commerce, Management, Arts, and related disciplines.
- D.Sc. (Doctor of Science): A post-doctoral research program in scientific fields including engineering, technology, and related disciplines.
- LL.D. (Doctorof Laws): A post-doctoral research program in legal studies, judiciary, or legal practice.
Eligibility Criteria
General
a) The applicant must hold a Ph.D. degree in the relevant field from a recognized university.
b) The applicant must have at least 05 years of post-Ph.D. academic or professional experience in research.
c) The applicant must have made significant contributions in the form of research publications, books, patents, policy papers, or other scholarly work.
d) The applicant should have a minimum of 10 publications in Scopus/ Web of Science/ SCI/UGC Care or reputed journals.
The number of research papers may be relaxed in case the researcher published at least two (2) patents or two (2) books, recommendations/referrals of his/her research/contribution from nationally / internationally recognized experts of the concerned field and his / her research works and efforts have made distinct contributions to the society and the advancement of knowledge.
Specific:
Eligibility for enrolment in D.Litt. Program
A candidate who is awarded Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in the disciplines of Humanities, Social Sciences, Business, Design, Management, Commerce, Creative Arts, and other related areas by this University or degree recognized equivalent thereto from any other University may present his/her candidacy for the Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.)
Eligibility for enrolment in D.Sc. Program
Any researcher, who has been awarded Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in the disciplines of Science, Engineering & Technology, Pharmacy, and other related areas by this university or degree recognized equivalent thereto from any other university may present his / her candidacy for the degree of Doctor of Science (D.Sc.)
Eligibility for enrolment in LL.D.
A candidate who is awarded Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in the discipline of Law and related areas by this University or degree recognized equivalent thereto from any other University may present his/ her candidacy for the Doctor of Laws (LL.D.)
Admission Schedule: Admissions are conducted twice a year:
- Autumn Semester (July–December)
- Spring Semester (January–June)
Application Requirements:
Candidates must submit their application to the University’s R&D Cell with the following:
- Detailed CV and list of publications (journals, books, patents, etc.)
- Summary of academic and professional contributions
- Two letters of recommendation (if required)
- Research proposal or monograph
- Copies of academic and experience certificates
- Citizenship certificate
- Application fee: ₹5,000 (non-refundable)
Program Modes:
- Full-Time: Scholars must work full-time at the University.
- Part-Time: A regular (permanent) employee working in the Department of the University or in any other University/ College/ Institute or working professional in any institute, can apply for a part-time post-doctoral program. It is mandatory to submit NOC from the employer and access to research facilities at their workplace.
Note: 25% supernumerary seats are reserved for international students.
Evaluation & Selection Process
- Applications and supporting documents are reviewed by a panel of experts constituted by the R&D Cell and approved by the Vice Chancellor.
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited to present their research proposal before the RDC/Interview Board.
- The committee evaluates the originality, impact, and significance of the applicant’s contributions and research proposal.
- The University’s Research Advisory Council makes final selection based on expert recommendations.
- Selected candidates are formally registered in the Post-Doctoral Program.
- The University reserves the right to reject any application without assigning reasons.
Duration of the Program, Research Progress and Viva-Voce
- The duration of the post-doctoral program shall be a minimum of one year and a maximum of three years.
- Candidates are required to submit periodic research progress reports every six months.
- The researcher can submit the thesis after the successful submission of a minimum of three progress reports (six-monthly progress report by admission) and recommendations by the PDRAC in the pre-submission seminar.
- Submission of the thesis before the completion of a minimum of three satisfactory progress reports is not allowed.
- The candidate should submit the D. Litt. / D. Sc. / LL. D thesis in English except when, it is related to an Indian language, particularly in the case of D.Litt., where the thesis should be in the language concerned.
- An extension beyond three years may be granted under exceptional circumstances, subject to approval by the RDC.
- The Post Doctoral Fellow/ Research Scholar will have to present himself/herself for the Viva-voce examination when fixed by the University failing which he/she will be declared ineligible for the award of Degree.
Responsibilities of Postdoctoral Fellows/ Research Scholars
- Conduct independent research under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
- Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at conferences.
- Assist in teaching, mentoring graduate students, and contributing to academic activities.
- Submit periodic progress reports and participate in university research seminars.
- Working on Departmental Research Projects and applying for research funds to external funding agencies.