Early Career Researchers (ECRs) broadly defined from 0-5 years post-PhD, often lack structured support to enable a transition from being PhD scholars to junior faculty or researchers. Most fresh PhDs are thrust into academic, applied research and policy positions and left to navigate this transition on their own. Some ease their way into faculty roles via postdoctoral fellowships and similar shorter positions, and effectively learn as best as they can on the job.

 

The IIHS Research Programme is creating a learning space for ECRs interested in urban questions, building on the extensive experience of IIHS faculty, a decade of experience of delivering IIHS PhD workshops and IIHS’ annual international research conference Urban ARC.

 

The IIHS ECR workshop will run over 3 days each summer and provide structured mentoring and support to equip ECRs to navigate post-PhD professional life. The first iteration will take place from 3 June to 5 June, 2026 at the IIHS, Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru – with an intake of 15-20 participants.

Workshop Structure

The workshop will be structured around a series of open, plenary sessions as well as smaller group sessions that will provide feedback from IIHS faculty and researchers and peers. The plenary sessions will focus on a range of topics including: publication, building partnerships and writing grants and open “Office Hour” sessions with workshop faculty.

 

The group sessions will be structured along two tracks:

  • Pedagogy track: enabling interdisciplinary teaching-learning
  • Research/Applied Research track: enabling interdisciplinary research

 

Eligibility

The workshop is open to participants who have been granted their PhD from 2021 onwards. PhD scholars who have submitted their dissertation, may be considered in under exceptional circumstances.

 

Application process

Applicants will submit their applications, along one of two tracks:

  • Pedagogy track: a teaching statement and/or a draft syllabus
  • Research/Applied Research track: a research statement and/or an abstract of a prospective grant proposal

 

Interested applicants should apply here.

 

Fee

The fee for the course is INR 5,000 + 18% GST. Selected participants will be sent the payment link via email.

 

Venue

The workshop will be held in person at the
IIHS, Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru
97/36, 2nd Main Road, Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru 560 080

 

Other information

  • Selected participants will have to make their own arrangements for travel and accommodation
  • Lunch and refreshments will be provided throughout the duration of the Workshop

 

For further clarifications, write to research@iihs.ac.in

Who is eligible to apply for the workshop?

The workshop is open to Early Career Researchers (ECRs) who have completed their PhD in 2021 or later (0–5 years post-PhD). Candidates should have submitted their thesis and completed all institutional requirements for the PhD.

Can PhD scholars who have submitted but not yet defended their dissertation apply?

Yes, PhD scholars who have submitted their dissertation may be considered in exceptional circumstances.

What is the duration and format of the workshop?

The workshop will run over three days (3–5 June 2026) and will include a mix of plenary sessions and small-group sessions focused on mentoring, peer learning, and feedback.

What are the two tracks offered, and how should I choose between them?

The workshop offers two tracks:

  • Pedagogy Track – for those interested in teaching and interdisciplinary learning
  • Research/Applied Research Track – for those focused on research design, grants, and applied work
    Applicants should choose the track that best aligns with their current interests and career goals.

What should be included in the application for each track (Pedagogy vs Research)?

  • Pedagogy Track: A teaching statement and/or a draft syllabus
  • Research/Applied Research Track: A research statement and/or an abstract of a prospective grant proposal

How many participants will be selected for the workshop?

The workshop will have a small cohort of approximately 15–20 participants to enable focused engagement and mentoring.

What kind of mentoring and feedback can participants expect during the workshop?

Participants will receive structured feedback from IIHS faculty, researchers, and peers through group sessions, as well as opportunities for one-on-one interaction during open “Office Hour” sessions.

Is the workshop conducted online or in person?

The workshop will be conducted in person at the IIHS, Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru.

What does the workshop fee cover, and are there any additional costs?

The workshop fee is INR 5,000 + 18% GST. This includes participation in all sessions, as well as lunch and refreshments during the workshop. Participants will need to cover their own travel and accommodation costs. Selected participants will be sent the payment link via email.

Will accommodation and travel be arranged by IIHS?

No, participants are expected to make their own travel and accommodation arrangements.