PhD Research Opportunities | IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay

Company Description IDC School of Design at IIT Bombay (formerly Industrial Design Centre) offers a dynamic environment for academics, research, and practice in design. It hosts programs in Industrial Design, Communication Design, Interaction Design, Animation, and Mobility & Vehicle Design, with a strong emphasis on integrating design research and problem-solving. The curriculum combines pedagogic experimentation with real-world design challenges, encouraging new ideas, philosophies, and methods in design. Faculty, students, and research staff collaborate on diverse research areas and engage actively with industry and institutions through seminars, workshops, short courses, and consultancy. This ecosystem provides PhD candidates with rich opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and impact-oriented design research.
Role Description PhD researchers at IDC School of Design will conduct original, rigorous research in one or more design domains, contributing to new knowledge and practice in the field. Day-to-day activities include reviewing literature, framing research questions, designing and executing studies, collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data, and documenting findings in the form of papers, prototypes, and theses. The role involves close collaboration with faculty mentors, participation in studio and classroom activities, engaging in interdisciplinary projects, and presenting work at seminars, conferences, and internal reviews. PhD researchers may also support teaching, guide student projects, and contribute to industry-facing initiatives such as workshops and consultancy assignments. This is a full-time, on-site role based at IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay, in Mumbai.
Qualifications
Strong foundation in Industrial or Communication design.
Demonstrated research aptitude, including ability to frame research problems, conduct literature reviews, and apply appropriate methodologies.
Proficiency in design methods such as user-centered design, prototyping, usability evaluation, and iterative refinement.
Ability to communicate research and design outcomes clearly through written documents, visual representations, and presentations.
Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Design or related fields such as Architecture, Fine Arts, Social Sciences; exceptional bachelor’s graduates with strong research portfolios may also be considered as per institute norms.
Experience with interdisciplinary collaboration and working in studio or lab environments.
Interest in engaging with industry, institutions, and communities through applied research, workshops, and consultancy projects.
Good analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a diverse team.
Prior publications, conference presentations, or substantial design/research projects are an advantage.
Willingness to be based in Mumbai and to commit to full-time on

Work arrangement
No