Ph.D. Programme
The Ph.D. programme at Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) focuses on basic and applied aspects of advanced research in the field of nano and soft matter sciences. CeNS is recognized by Mangalore University, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE, Manipal) and Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) for the award of PhD degree
Admissions
Applications are invited from students for admission to the Ph.D. programme to join as Junior Research Fellows (JRF) in the following areas of research.Areas of research
| Energy & Environment |
Photodetectors, Photovoltaics |
| Nanomaterials |
Large-scale synthesis of nano materials at near-ambient conditions |
| Soft materials/ Liquid crystals |
Synthesis, Composites |
| Surfaces/Interfaces | Phase transitions in two dimensions Micro- and nano-structured surfaces Structural colours Wettability Plasmonics |
Essential qualifications as given in the AcSIR website
- M.Sc./M.Tech. from a recognized University/Institute in Physics/Chemistry/Materials Science/Nano Science and allied subjects with at least 60% aggregate marks for the general category and 55% for SC/ST candidates.
- Specialization in Condensed Matter Physics, Electronics, Materials Science, and Organic/Inorganic/Physical/General Chemistry at the Master’s degree level is desired.
- The candidate should have qualified at least in one of the national level entrance tests, i.e., CSIR-UGC NET (JRF only) / GATE or JEST, or should be an INSPIRE fellow.
- The Centre’s Research and Development (R&D) Assistants* are permitted to apply for AcSIR PhD programme, provided they have the essential qualification as in pt.1&2. In addition, the candidate should have completed one year of service in the three-year project and should have authored at least one publication in a SCI journal with substantial research contribution. A certificate from the PI in the prescribed format needs to submitted.
Selection procedure
Candidates will be short-listed for an interview based on their performance in the national entrance test(s) and academic performance. The final selection is based on the performance in the interview.
Fellowship and hostel facilities
Students will be provided a CeNS fellowship as per DST norms. Students can avail campus hostel facility.
* Centre’s ‘Research and Development (R&D) Assistants’ will receive the CeNS fellowship from 3rd year of PhD, after the respective project completed.
Travel grants
Students are encouraged to participate in national and international workshops, expos, symposia, and conferences. Centre provides financial assistance of up to Rs. 1,50,000/- during the five-year duration of the Ph.D. programme.
Medical Facility
A clinic with basic facilities and a medical practitioner is available for the students on the campus. For any special medical needs, students are referred to nearby /empanelled hospitals.
For any further queries, please send email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Application
Only online applications will be accepted for Ph.D. Programme.
Click on the following weblink to apply
https://www.cens.res.in/en/ph-d-programme-application-form
The Last date for receipt of completed applications – 1 September 2025.
Short-listed applicants will be called for an interview at CeNS during the last week of September 2025.
For any further queries, please send an email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
