KERNEL — Program for Emerging Leaders

Visiting Scholars program for early career researchers

Duration

30 days

16 May – 31 Dec 2026

Cohort Capacity

Flexible

Early career researchers, young faculty (post-PhD)

IIT Kharagpur campus

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

  • Post-PhD researchers

  • Young faculty members

  • Strong research track record

  • Relevant disciplinary expertise

KRITI — KERNEL

Important dates

Milestone Date
Applications Open 15 Apr 2026
Applications Close 31 Dec 2026
Program dates Flexible
Duration 30 days

Fellowship support

KERNEL Fellows receive financial support designed to cover essential expenses during the programme.

  • Fellowship of up to INR 80,000 per month
  • Coverage includes mandatory Institute guest house accommodation, meals, travel, and contingencies
  • Disbursed on a daily pro-rata basis, aligned with the duration of participation

Program Structure

A focused residency—deep collaboration, facilities access, and exchange embedded in IIT Kharagpur’s research environment.

Core pillar

Collaborative research

Collaborate with IIT Kharagpur faculty where your expertise complements ongoing work, fostering exchange of ideas and enriching the academic 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

Selection is based on academic profile, research potential, and the relevance and feasibility of the proposed visit. Applicants must submit:

  1. A brief proposal in consultation with a prospective host faculty member

  2. A curriculum vitae

  3. A statement of purpose outlining research interests and expected outcomes

  4. A letter of recommendation or institutional endorsement

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.