Ph.D at MU–VT IARCT2
An interdisciplinary doctoral programme driving advanced research and innovation across AI, smart systems, life sciences, sustainability, and emerging technologies through a unique collaboration between Mahindra University and Virginia Tech.
Programme overview
The Ph.D. programme at MU-VT IARCT 2 offered in collaboration with Virginia Tech through the interdisciplinary research centre, is designed to address complex, real-world challenges at the intersection of engineering, sciences, and emerging technologies. The programme focuses on convergent research across key thrust areas such as artificial intelligence, smart and connected systems, advanced materials, life sciences, and sustainability.
The programme integrates advanced coursework, research methodology training, and original doctoral research, enabling scholars to develop novel theoretical frameworks, technological innovations, or application-driven solutions. Doctoral candidates work under interdisciplinary supervision, often spanning multiple departments and research domains, and are encouraged to engage in collaborative projects that align with global research priorities.
With a strong emphasis on translational impact, the Ph.D. programme at MU-VT IARCT 2 prepares researchers to contribute to academia, industry, and policy by generating high- quality, impactful research grounded in both scientific rigor and societal relevance.
Programme details
Key features
- Convergent research framework: Scholars engage in integrated inquiry spanning multiple disciplines, leveraging the combined strengths of Mahindra University and Virginia Tech to address complex technological and societal challenges.
- Methodological depth and technical rigor: The programme builds strong capabilities in computational modelling, experimental design, and data-centric analysis required for high-quality research in advanced domains.
- Knowledge creation with applied relevance: Doctoral work is directed towards generating new insights, developing innovative approaches, or enabling technology translation with meaningful real-world applications.
- Internationally networked research exposure: Participants benefit from joint academic engagement, cross-institutional mentorship, and access to a broader research network that supports globally relevant scholarship.
Research thrust areas
Leader: Dr. Arya K Bhattacharya, Professor and Dean R&D
Co-leader: Dr. Prafulla Kalapatapu, Assistant Professor
Leg 1 – Natural Language Processing
- IoT-based real-time monitoring of power substations and blackout prediction in smart grids using deep learning techniques – Dr. Neeraj Choudhary-Assistant Professor
- Symbols to syntax: decoding the ancient writing systems (Indus valley script) through artificial intelligence – Ms. Nidhi Goyal-Assistant Professor
Leg 2 – Computer vision
- Indian sign language translation with a real-time dataset – Dr. Dipti Mishra-Assistant Professor
- AI-driven cephalometric landmark detection for precision orthodontics and craniofacial analysis – Dr. Neeraj Choudhary-Assistant Professor
- DeepFake video detection for digital forensics – Dr. Ankita Jain-Assistant Professor
- Tracking object in underwater environment – Mr. Rahul Roy-Assistant Professor
Leg 3 – Autonomous intelligence
- Designing learning algorithms for low latency millimeter wave communication in highly dynamic environments – Dr. Gourav Saha-Assistant Professor
- Building brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) using deep generative models – Ms. Nidhi Goyal-Assistant Professor
- Transforming tourism through augmented/virtual reality technologies – Dr. Venkata Rajesh Kumar Tavva-Assistant Professor
- Inverse materials design with graph diffusion model – Dr. Shampa Raghunathan-Assistant Professor
- Automatic synthesis of music aligned with specific emotional states (Rasas) using evolutionary algorithms – MS.Prafulla Kalapatapu and Arya K Bhattacharya-Assistant Professor,Professor and Dean R&D
Leg 4 – Smart manufacturing and immersive technologies
Fusion of extended reality (augmented/virtual/mixed reality) technologies for the visualization, simulation and interaction with digital twins in automotive industry – Dr. Venkata Rajesh Kumar Tavva-Assistant Professor
Leg 5 – Artificial intelligence in scientific simulations
- Quantum generative methods for metasurface based single photon emissions – Dr. Jayasri Dontabhaktuni-Associate Professor
- Physics informed ML – RVDS-LSUM scheme for analysis and design of complex aerospace configurations – Prof. Arya Kumar Bhattacharya-Professor & Dean R&D
- Machine learning Ab-Initio potentials using graph neural networks – Dr. Shampa Raghunathan-Assistant Professor
Leader: Dr. Rajinder Singh Chauhan, Professor & Dean Centre for LifeSciences
Co-leader: Dr. Arun Khattri, Associate Professor
- Advancing precision gene therapy through synthetic AAV serotypes with cancer-specific tropism – Dr. Aruna Kumar C
- Predictive biomarkers and affordable assay for the stratification of Indian patients with OPMDs and oral cancer – Dr. Arun Khattri
- Nanobodies as detection system & biotherapeutics for lung cancer – Dr. Bhaskar Paidimuddala
- MicroRNA-based biomarkers and precision therapeutics for head and neck cancer – Dr. Manish Kumar
Leader: Prof. Visalakshi Talakokula, Assistant Dean & Professor Civil Engineering
Co-leader: Dr. Sri Kalyana Rama Jyosyula, Associate Professor
Leg 1 – Smart infrastructure
- Performance evaluation of precast concrete elements using nano-enabled self-sensing cementitious composites and embedded piezo sensors – Dr. Sri Kalyana Rama Jyosyula, Prof. Visalakshi Talakokula, Dr. Aditya Abburi
- Investigation of self-healing Efficiency in nano-engineered precast cementitious composites – Dr. Sri Kalyana Rama Jyosyula, Prof. Visalakshi Talakokula, Dr. Keerti Katam
Leg 2 – Smart mobility
- Developing an implementable and sustainable MaaS framework – Dr. Saladi Subbarao, Dr. Veeraiah
- Advanced traffic management system using V2X communications – Dr. Subbarao Boddu, Dr. Yarlagadda Jahnavi, Dr. Saladi Subbarao
Leg 3 – Smart environment
- Reusable self-propelled visible light driven micro/nano motors for waste water treatment – Dr. Gomathi Anandhanatarajan-Associate Professor
- IoT-based WQM monitoring system with technologies for low-cost indigenous sensing solutions – Dr Chitra Gurnani-Associate Professor and HOD of Chemistry Department
Leader: Dr Chitra Gurnani-Associate Professor and HOD of Chemistry Department
Co-leader: Dr. Gomathi Anandhanatarajan, Associate Professor
Leg 1 – Next generation energy storage technologies
- Development of low-dimensional layered metal chalcogenides for a robust and defect engineered electrode materials for energy storage application – Dr Chitra Gurnani-Associate Professor and HOD of Chemistry Department
- Sandwich heterostructures – MXene@completely delaminated metal – Dr. Gomathi Anandhanatarajan-Associate Professor
- Calcium fluoride nanomaterials for advanced energy storage applications – Dr Aditya Abburi-Associate Professor
Leg 2 – Advanced sensors: intelligent, flexible and sustainable
- Room-temperature gas and VOC detection using M₂S₃ nanostructures – Dr Chitra Gurnani-Associate Professor and HOD of Chemistry Department
Leg 3 – Clean water innovations: addressing global challenges
- Air purification technology – Dr. Keerti Katam and Dr. Jayato Nayak
- Optimizing waste management to mitigate open dumping – Dr. Sandeepan Roy
- Waste valorization towards manufacturing of smart packaging material – Dr. Jayato Nayak
- Utilization of C&D waste in MSE wall – Dr. Hariprasad and Dr. Janardhan
Note for Applicants
- Applicants should identify a thrust area first, then apply through the most relevant department.
- All PhD projects are interdisciplinary, with potential co-supervision across departments and the MU–VT research centre.
- Candidates are encouraged to propose research that integrates multiple domains aligned with emerging technologies and societal impact.
Eligibility
Applicants must satisfy the following criteria:
- A master’s degree (M.Tech./M.E./M.Sc. or equivalent) in a relevant discipline from a recognised institution
- Candidates with exceptional academic background holding a bachelor’s degree (B.Tech./B.E. or equivalent) may also be considered, as per university norms
- Demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary research aligned with MU–VT thrust areas
- Fulfilment of any additional requirements prescribed by the University from time to time
Selection process
- Screening of applications based on academic background and research interests
- Written test and/or interview
- Evaluation of research aptitude and alignment with faculty expertise and thrust areas
Research assistantship
University will provide a fellowship of Rs. 30,000 per month plus free lodging and boarding on the campus.
FAQs
Typically, a minimum of 3–6 years, depending on the candidate’s entry qualification and research progress.
The final degree will be conferred by Mahindra University.
How this PhD programmed unique from regular PhD at MahindraUniversity?
- Scholars get the opportunity to collaborate with Virginia Tech Faculty during the PhD programme
- Opportunity to have a co-advisor from Virginia Tech
- Opportunity to do further research after PhD at Virginia Tech
Yes. The programme includes a set of prescribed coursework to build research foundations before dissertation work.
