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
- Symbols to syntax: decoding the ancient writing systems (Indus valley script) through artificial intelligence – Ms. Nidhi Goyal-Assistant Professor
Leg 2 – Computer vision
- Tracking object in underwater environment – Mr. Rahul Roy-Assistant Professor
Leg 3 – Autonomous intelligence
- Reinforcement Learning Algorithms for Wireless Communications – Dr. Gourav Saha-Assistant Professor
- Building brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) using deep generative models – Ms. Nidhi Goyal-Assistant Professor
- Inverse materials design with graph diffusion model – Dr. Shampa Raghunathan-Assistant Professor
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
- Optimizing Waste Management to Mitigate Open Dumping – Dr. Sandeepan Roy – Assistant Professor
Leader: Prof. Roop Mahajan
- Resilience Through Voluntary Hardship – Dr. Chaitanya Solanki – Assistant Professor
- Development of a Digital Twin-Driven Decision Support Framework for Optimizing Campus-Scale Net-Zero Energy, Water, Waste and Emissions Transitions – Dr. Surekha Tetali – Assistant Professor
- Magnetoelectric sensor framework for biomedical applications – Dr. Pulla Kondaiah – Associate Professor
Note for Applicants
- Applicants should identify a thrust area first, then apply through the most relevant department.
- All Ph.D. 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
Selected full-time Ph.D. scholars will receive an assistantship worth Rs. 56,000 per month, comprising:
- Monthly Stipend: A stipend of Rs. 35,000 per month will be credited directly to the student’s registered bank account.
- On-campus accommodation and meals provided, valued at approximately Rs. 21,000
The assistantship includes mandatory Teaching Assistantship (TA) duties of 8 hours per week.
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 Mahindra University?
- 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.
