RMIT-AcSIR Joint Research Program

The Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) is an Institution of National Importance, established by an Act of Parliament (AcSIR Act, 2011) and notified in the Gazette of India on 3 April 2012.

AcSIR is dedicated to fostering world-class research and training in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medical research (STEMM). It leverages the extensive infrastructure and expertise of 80 associated research institutes, including National Institutes of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the Department of Science and Technology (DST), etc.

AcSIR conducts academic activities and awards Masters and Doctoral degrees at pan-India locations. Research at AcSIR spans various faculties such as Agricultural Sciences, Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Engineering Sciences, Medical Research, Physical Sciences, Mathematical and Information Sciences, and interdisciplinary areas. By fostering scientific talent and driving cutting-edge research, AcSIR aims to significantly contribute to India's scientific and societal progress.

Currently, with about 6500 Ph.D Students on its rolls in Science & Engineering and Medical Research, AcSIR is the largest institution of Doctoral education in India and has awarded 831 Ph.D. degrees in the year 2024 in STEM. The NIRF Ranking by the Ministry of Education ranked AcSIR at 11th position in ‘Research Institutions’ category in 2024. As per Nature Index Rankings, AcSIR occupies the 11th rank among Universities in India and 11th rank in SCImago ranking (2024) among educational Institutes in India.

AcSIR is committed to shaping the next generation of Science and Technology leaders through cutting-edge curricula, innovative, teaching methods, and rigorous evaluation processes. Its mission is to provide advanced instruction and foster research opportunities in emerging and inter-disciplinary fields that are often underrepresented in traditional academic institutions across India.

Admissions to AcSIR PhD programs are conducted twice a year. AcSIR HQ announce the admission criteria and procedures through national dailies and online media for the participating CSIR, ICMR, and other AcSIR-associated research institutes.

The selection of candidates is based on eligibility criteria, academic records, and their performance in the test and/or interview, as evaluated by the Selection Committee of the respective CSIR, ICMR, and other AcSIR-associated institutes.

Students admitted to an AcSIR PhD program, upon successful completion of their coursework, are eligible to apply for the RMIT-AcSIR PhD Research Scholarship when AcSIR & RMIT announces a call for applications. Applicants must submit their applications before the deadline, after which selection panels from both AcSIR and RMIT University will review the submissions. Applicants must meet the minimum entry requirements into a RMIT PhD program, including English language requirements. Please visit the RMIT research degree website for more details.

Successful candidates shortlisted for admission to the Joint PhD (Cotutelle) Program will receive the RMIT-AcSIR PhD Research Scholarship offer from RMIT University.

This unique opportunity allows PhD students to continue their research at their AcSIR home institute in India while collaborating with an RMIT supervisor in Australia. As part of the program, students will spend up to 12 months at RMIT University in Australia during the later stages of their PhD, gaining international exposure and access to world-class research facilities.

Scholarships and Additional Support

• A tuition fee scholarship at RMIT University for the duration of candidature up to 4.0 years
• Single Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for up to 12 months to study at RMIT University in Australia
• Visa sponsorship for up to 12 months to study at RMIT University in Australia
• A stipend scholarship for up to 12 months while attending RMIT University in Australia. This scholarship will be paid at same rate of pay as the current RMIT Research Stipend Scholarship (approximately AUD $35,700 p.a.)
• Candidates may be considered for a relocation grant of up to a maximum of AUD $1,540 per candidate towards airfare when they come to Melbourne, Australia
• Return airfare (economy class) will be paid by STEM College
• HDR support fund from STEM College when enrolled onshore

Benefits of a Joint PhD Degree

• At the successful completion of the degree, the candidate will be awarded PhDs from both RMIT University and AcSIR
• Candidates will gain access to RMIT’s state-of-the-art research facilities and labs
• Candidates will benefit from supervision under research scholars from both Australia and India
• Candidates will receive a tax-free stipend scholarship for up to 12 months of approximately AUD $35,700 p.a
• Candidates will have international research collaboration opportunities
  
  
  

If you are interested in the program or require further information, please contact your AcSIR coordinator at your CSIR Lab or contact the administrative team at jdp.rmit@acsir.res.in in the AcSIR Head Office.

For enquiries regarding the RMIT admission process, please contact the School of Graduate Research through the RMIT Connect Portal using the Guest Login.

For information specific to the RMIT-AcSIR Joint Research Program, please contact Tae Kim, Senior Officer, Offshore Program Support, STEM Research and Innovation, at taehyun.kim@rmit.edu.au.