CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Ropar. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar has launched a new model for PhD studies. Under this, research scholars can earn a doctoral degree on the basis of the practical outcomes of their research instead of a traditional written thesis. The institute has named it a product/startup-driven PhD. In this system, the development of a useful product, securing a patent, commercial transfer of technology or building a startup can become the main outcome of research.
According to the institute, the objective of this initiative is to connect academic research with solutions to real problems, technological innovation and the needs of industry. However, this does not mean that a PhD will be awarded without research or evaluation. Research scholars will have to present the outcomes of their work in accordance with prescribed academic standards and the institute’s PhD rules.
Emphasis on product and innovation instead of thesis: According to IIT Ropar Director Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, under this model a research scholar will not be required to write a traditional PhD thesis. Instead, the scholar can work on developing a product, launching a startup or securing a patent. The research will be evaluated on the basis of these outcomes.
Research to move ahead through three routes: In this model, there are three main routes for research scholars to advance innovation. First, securing a patent for a new technology or invention. Second, preparing a product and taking it to the market through a startup. Third, transferring the developed technology to an existing company so that it can be used commercially.
Institute support for startups: IIT Ropar’s innovation ecosystem is focused on supporting students and faculty from the initial idea stage to prototype development. The institute’s incubation system provides technical facilities, guidance and opportunities to connect with investors. This can help research scholars convert their ideas into real products and commercial solutions.
Changing approach to research evaluation: In a traditional PhD, the dissertation and academic publications play an important role. In the new model, practical outcomes will be given greater importance. This can increase opportunities to develop useful solutions for technology, industry and society. However, the success of this system will depend on how scientific quality, originality and academic rigour are ensured in the evaluation of products and startups.
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