Core pillar
Collaborative research
Collaborate with IIT Kharagpur faculty where your expertise complements ongoing work, fostering exchange of ideas and enriching the academic environment.
KERNEL — Program for Emerging Leaders
Visiting Scholars program for early career researchers
Maximum duration
Up to 30 days
21 Sept – 28 Feb 2027
Cohort Capacity
Flexible
Short residency (early-career researchers)
Overview
KERNEL hosts early-career researchers and young faculty for short-term academic visits at IIT Kharagpur. It offers recent PhD graduates the opportunity to collaborate with faculty, engage with active research groups, and work within the institute’s advanced academic environment. The program primarily supports researchers from institutions across India, while also welcoming outstanding Indian scholars abroad and select international participants from academia and industry. Designed to enable focused visits, KERNEL promotes intellectual exchange and strengthens research linkages with IIT Kharagpur.
Eligibility
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Post-PhD researchers
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Young faculty members
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Strong research track record
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Relevant disciplinary expertise
Important dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 21 Sept 2026 |
| Applications Close | 31 Dec 2026 |
| Program dates | Flexible; visits must conclude by 28 Feb 2027 |
| Maximum duration | Up to 30 days |
Travel and Hospitality Support
Selected visitors will receive support for the approved duration of the visit, subject to applicable Government of India and Institute norms.
- Round-trip economy-class airfare or admissible train fare by the shortest route, reimbursed at actuals
- Accommodation and local hospitality, including meals, for the approved duration; accommodation in the Institute Guest House is subject to availability
The approved support and applicable conditions will be communicated with the offer. At present, financial support is limited to domestic travel. Any change will be notified.
Program Structure
A focused residency—deep collaboration, facilities access, and exchange embedded in IIT Kharagpur’s research environment.
Labs & computation
Access to advanced labs and computational facilities as appropriate to your collaboration plan.
What You'll Gain
Active collaboration
Work within a host group on meaningful problems, with active participation and engagement throughout the visit.
Infrastructure access
Access advanced institute facilities and capabilities to support your work.
Partnerships and Networks
Build long-term academic collaborations and professional connections.
Academic and Social Exchange
Experience the institute’s academic environment and campus life through meaningful interactions and shared activities.
Application and Selection Process
Visitors may apply directly or through faculty nomination; each application must identify an IIT Kharagpur faculty host and their academic unit. Selection is based on the visitor’s academic background and the clarity, relevance, feasibility and expected outcomes of the proposed engagement. The online application requires:
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Purpose of the visit
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Proposed engagement and expected outputs
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Current curriculum vitae
FAQs
Q: When can I apply?
A: Applications are accepted year-round.
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 the host faculty.
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.