PhD positions open — January 2027 intake · Apply now →
Chetan Singh Research Group logoChetan Singh Research GroupIIT Kharagpur · Metallurgical & Materials Engineering
Join Us

Open positions & how to apply.

Current openings for PhD students, postdocs, and project students — and how to apply.

Openings last updated · August 2026

PhD Positions

1–2 positions · January 2027 intake

We seek PhD students in our core research areas: (1) reactive and energetic Al-based alloy powder design and characterization, including recycled Al powders for on-demand green hydrogen generation, (2) mechanical behavior of metallic materials at ultracryogenic temperatures (down to 15 K), and (3) lightweight Mg and Al alloy design with focus on biodegradable implants and structural applications. Applicants must qualify GATE, NET, or equivalent and apply through the IIT Kharagpur PhD admission process. The next intake is January 2027 — interested students should get in touch during 2026 so that interviews and selection can be completed before the admission cycle.

Requirements
  • B.Tech or M.Tech in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics
  • Strong background in physical metallurgy, mechanics of materials, or materials characterization
  • GATE/NET qualification (required for JRF/SRF fellowship)
  • Initiative and a genuine interest in hands-on experimental work

Postdoctoral Researcher

Openings as funding allows · rolling

Postdoctoral applications are welcome from candidates with expertise in lightweight metallic alloys (Mg/Al), cryogenic mechanical testing, electron microscopy (SEM/EBSD/TEM), or reactive materials. We will consider exceptional candidates even when formal openings are not advertised — please reach out with your CV and a brief description of your research.

Requirements
  • PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics
  • Strong publication record in one of the group's research areas
  • Hands-on experience with electron microscopy or mechanical testing preferred
Fellowship opportunities for postdoctoral researchers

B.Tech / M.Tech / DDP Project Students

Ongoing · IIT Kharagpur & other institutes

Students interested in BTP, DDP, or R&D project work in reactive powders, cryogenic mechanics, lightweight alloys, or electron microscopy are welcome to reach out. Motivated students from other institutes can also be considered for project work and research internships.

Requirements
  • Enrolled in a B.Tech, M.Tech, or Dual Degree programme (IIT Kharagpur or another institute)
  • Background in physical metallurgy, materials characterization, or mechanics of materials
  • Independent and motivated — willing to learn new experimental techniques
Summer fellowship routes (students from other institutes)

How to apply

Send a single PDF containing your CV and a brief note on your background and research interests (1 page) to chetan@metal.iitkgp.ac.in with subject line “[Position] — Your Name”. We aim to respond within a week.

PhD admissions at IIT Kharagpur follow the institute's official process (typically January and July intakes). We strongly encourage interested candidates to reach out well in advance — for the January 2027 intake, please contact us during 2026 so that interviews can be scheduled in time.

Contact the group