.png&w=1920&q=75)
PHD-HUMANITIES-AND-SOCIAL-SCIENCES in Humanities And Social Sciences at Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology
Gandhinagar, Gujarat
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Humanities and Social Sciences at Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology Gandhinagar?
This Humanities and Social Sciences PhD program at DAIICT focuses on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of technology, society, and human experience. Given India''''s rapid technological advancement and diverse social landscape, the program is critically relevant for understanding its impact. It differentiates itself by embedding HSS research within a robust ICT environment, fostering unique perspectives on digital culture, policy, and human-computer interaction. This niche area sees growing demand in the Indian research and policy sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in Humanities, Social Sciences, or related fields who possess a strong research aptitude and an interest in technology''''s societal implications. It also caters to B.Tech graduates with a demonstrated passion for interdisciplinary studies, looking to bridge the gap between technology and humanistic inquiry. Academics seeking to advance their research careers and professionals aiming for policy or think-tank roles in technology governance in India are also suitable candidates.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles as researchers in academic institutions and think tanks, policy analysts for government bodies or NGOs focused on technology policy, and consultants for corporations navigating digital transformation. Entry-level academic salaries in India range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 15-25 LPA. Growth trajectories involve leading research projects, shaping policy, and contributing to the intellectual discourse around technology and society in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Deepen Foundational Knowledge and Identify Research Niche- (Semester 1-2)
Engage rigorously with prescribed coursework, focusing on theoretical frameworks and methodologies relevant to HSS research. Actively participate in seminars and workshops to broaden perspectives and identify potential interdisciplinary research areas at the intersection of HSS and ICT. Start exploring faculty research interests to align with potential supervisors.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., JSTOR, Project MUSE), DAIICT library resources, Departmental seminars and colloquia
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures successful completion of coursework and helps in defining a focused research problem, which is critical for future academic and research positions.
Cultivate Critical Thinking and Research Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice academic writing by drafting literature reviews and short research papers, seeking feedback from faculty and peers. Develop critical analytical skills by engaging with diverse theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches. Attend workshops on research ethics and academic integrity.
Tools & Resources
Writing centers/mentors, Reference management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley), Workshops on academic writing
Career Connection
Excellent research and writing skills are fundamental for publishing in peer-reviewed journals, securing grants, and effectively communicating complex ideas in any research-intensive role.
Network with Faculty and Fellow Researchers- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly interact with faculty members to discuss research ideas, gain insights into their ongoing projects, and seek mentorship. Build a supportive peer network through study groups and informal discussions to share challenges and progress. Attend university-wide research events.
Tools & Resources
Departmental office hours, Research group meetings, Campus research symposia
Career Connection
Strong academic networks are vital for collaborations, obtaining recommendations, and identifying postdoctoral opportunities or research positions in India and abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Prepare and Defend the Qualifying Examination- (Semester 3-4)
Systematically review all coursework material and related literature to prepare for the qualifying examination. Form study groups and engage in mock exams. Work closely with the Doctoral Committee to understand expectations and address any gaps in knowledge, demonstrating readiness for independent research.
Tools & Resources
Course syllabi and readings, Peer study groups, Faculty guidance
Career Connection
Passing the qualifying examination is a crucial milestone, demonstrating mastery of the field and paving the way for thesis research, which is a prerequisite for all PhD-level careers.
Develop and Refine Thesis Proposal- (Semester 3-5)
Formulate a clear, original, and feasible research question, conduct an exhaustive literature review, and design a robust methodology. Present the proposal to the Doctoral Committee and incorporate feedback for iterative refinement. Focus on the interdisciplinary aspects relevant to DAIICT''''s ICT context.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology workshops, Statistical software (if applicable), Faculty supervisors
Career Connection
A well-defined thesis proposal is the blueprint for successful doctoral research and often serves as a primary document for grant applications and future project pitches.
Seek Early Publication and Conference Presentation Opportunities- (Semester 4-6)
Transform strong coursework papers or early thesis chapters into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals. Present preliminary research findings at national and international conferences. This builds a research profile and gets valuable feedback from the broader academic community.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission guidelines, Call for papers from relevant conferences, Supervisor guidance
Career Connection
Publications and conference presentations enhance CVs significantly, making candidates more competitive for academic positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and research grants in India and globally.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Thesis Writing and Data Analysis- (Semester 6-7)
Dedicate significant time to rigorous data collection, analysis, and thesis writing. Maintain regular communication with the supervisor for guidance and feedback on drafts. Focus on coherent argumentation, theoretical contributions, and the empirical rigor of the research.
Tools & Resources
Data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for text analysis), Academic writing software, Supervisor meetings
Career Connection
Completing a high-quality thesis demonstrates independent research capability, a fundamental requirement for any advanced research or academic role.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Post-PhD Career- (Semester 7-8)
Practice defending the thesis to the Doctoral Committee and mock panels, preparing for challenging questions. Simultaneously, begin preparing for the job market by refining your CV, cover letters, and teaching statements (if applicable). Network proactively for academic or industry research roles.
Tools & Resources
Mock defense panels, Career services workshops, Professional networking platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, ResearchGate)
Career Connection
Successful thesis defense is the culmination of the PhD journey. Proactive career preparation during this stage ensures a smooth transition into desired academic, research, or policy roles in India or internationally.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Outreach and Impact- (Semester 7-8 and beyond)
Translate complex research findings into accessible formats for broader audiences (e.g., policy briefs, blog posts, public lectures). Participate in departmental or university outreach activities. Explore opportunities to contribute to policy discussions related to technology and society in India.
Tools & Resources
University communications department, Policy think tanks'''' publication guidelines, Public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Demonstrating the societal impact of your research enhances your profile for roles in policy, advocacy, and public engagement, beyond traditional academic positions, contributing directly to India''''s development challenges.
