Research Programmes

At the Kotak IISc AI–ML Centre, students can pursue cutting-edge research in Artificial Intelligence through two flagship degrees:
PhD and MTech (Research).

PhD

The PhD programme offers a 3–6 year journey into advanced AI research, supported by carefully chosen courses under the Research Training Programme. Students build deep expertise by engaging with high-quality coursework, seminars, and peer-reviewed literature. They demonstrate their readiness through a comprehensive exam that includes a seminar and an oral assessment.

The heart of the programme is an original dissertation that frequently leads to impactful publications, patents, and technologies. Along the way, students benefit from opportunities for international collaborations, visits to other universities, support for attending global conferences, placements and internships, and pathways for entrepreneurial exploration.

MTech (Research)

The MTech (Research) programme provides a focused 2–2.5 year research experience in AI, ideal for students looking to deepen their skills while working closely with advisors on original research. With courses tailored to their research direction, students gain the foundations needed to pursue a high-quality thesis that is lighter in scope than a PhD dissertation but still often leading to impactful peer-reviewed publications.

The programme equips students with valuable research exposure for both industry roles and future doctoral study. Students also enjoy access to internship and placement opportunities.

Research Areas

  • Machine Learning and Deep Learning
  • Generative AI
  • Reinforcement Learning
  • Computer Vision 
  • Natural Language and Speech Processing
  • Robotics
  • Ethics/Fairness/Explainability in AI
  • AI in Science, Engineering, and Healthcare

Eligibility and Admission Criteria

  1. Minimum qualification: BE/BTech/BS (4-year) from engineering/science disciplines or MSc in Physics/Mathematics/Electronics/Statistics/Computer Science. 
  2. Admission mode: Valid scores in GATE or NET JRF (for BTech/BS (4-year)/MSc applicants), CFTI, or as per IISc norms for MTech qualified in CS/EE/ECE/DS or allied disciplines, which includes all IISc MTech programmes offered under EECS, CDS, CPS.
  3. ERP (External Registration Programme) and QIP (Quality Improvement Programme) admissions: Permitted as per Institute regulations, with identical academic criteria.

Research Admissions 2026

(Details will be provided by January 2026)