Core pillar
Group-embedded research
Conduct your project within an IIT Kharagpur research group, with mentorship, peer interaction, and shared infrastructure.
CRAFT — Fellowship for Research Scholars
Empowering Talent Through Research Access
Duration
30 days
16 May – 31 Dec 2026
Cohort Capacity
Flexible
PG and PhD students from less-resourced institutions
Overview
CRAFT supports postgraduate and PhD students from less-resourced institutions by providing access to IIT Kharagpur’s advanced academic ecosystem, including high-end experimental and computational facilities. It enables them to work on projects aligned with ongoing research in close collaboration with faculty mentors and active groups.
Eligibility
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Postgraduate and PhD students
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With a well-defined problem aligned with ongoing work at IIT Kharagpur
Important dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 15 Apr 2026 |
| Applications Closed | 31 Dec 2026 |
| Program dates | Flexible |
| Duration | 30 days |
Fellowship support
CRAFT Fellows receive financial support designed to cover essential expenses during the programme.
- Stipend: ₹5,000 for the 6-week duration.
- Accommodation: Covered under the KRITI scheme in IIT Kharagpur hostels.
- Meals: Provided for the entire duration.
Program Structure
CRAFT places you within active research groups, with seminars, lab work, and mentorship aimed at outcomes you can carry forward.
Labs & workshops
Access advanced research infrastructure including specialised laboratories, computational facilities, and instrumentation.
Fellowship experience
Structured to democratize access while maintaining the rigor of graduate-level research practice.
01. Onboarding & plan
Align your proposal with host capabilities, safety requirements, and a realistic milestone plan.
Mentorship
Faculty & group guidance
Methods
Techniques & instrumentation
Scholarship
Literature, ethics, documentation
02. Deep project work
Sustained work with regular feedback through experiments, computation, or theory, depending on the discipline.
Hands-on lab, studio, or field work
Analysis, iteration, and validation
Presentation and feedback from peers
What You'll Gain
World-class infrastructure
Use facilities and instrumentation that may be unavailable at your home institution.
Mentored execution
Guidance from IIT Kharagpur faculty and researchers who know the standards of the field.
Peer network
Build relationships across disciplines with others pursuing serious research.
Seminars and Workshops
Participate in seminars, workshops, and thematic sessions.
Application and Selection Process
Selection is based on academic preparation, potential, and the relevance and feasibility of the proposed project. Applicants must submit:
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A proposal developed with a prospective faculty mentor
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Academic transcripts
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Letters of recommendation
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A statement of purpose outlining research interests
FAQs
Q: When can I apply?
A: Applications are accepted year-round, with priority given to summer, subject to accommodation availability.
Q: What is the duration of the fellowship?
A: The fellowship runs for up to one month.
Q: How are visits organized?
A: Each visit is coordinated by a host faculty member.
Q: When will I receive a decision?
A: Decisions are communicated within one month of application.
For complete terms, policies, and conditions regarding this program, please Click here for more info.