
PHD in Production And Operation Management at Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur


Sambalpur, Odisha
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Production and Operation Management at Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur Sambalpur?
This Production and Operation Management (POM) program at IIM Sambalpur focuses on developing rigorous researchers who can address complex challenges in manufacturing, services, and supply chains. It emphasizes a blend of theoretical foundations and empirical research relevant to India''''s growing industrial landscape, preparing scholars to contribute to both academia and high-level strategic consulting. The program differentiates itself by its focus on contemporary issues and interdisciplinary research aligned with national priorities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated individuals holding a Master''''s degree or equivalent, keen on pursuing an academic career or senior research roles. It suits fresh postgraduates with a strong analytical bent, working professionals seeking to transition into research and teaching, or aspiring thought leaders who wish to contribute to the advancement of operations management theory and practice in various Indian sectors. Applicants should possess strong quantitative and qualitative reasoning abilities and a passion for inquiry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure faculty positions at top management institutes and universities across India or take up senior research and consulting roles in leading Indian and multinational corporations. Typical career paths include Assistant Professor, Research Scientist, or Operations Consultant. While salary varies, entry-level faculty positions in India can range from INR 12-25 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program also aligns with contributing to national policy-making bodies on industrial and operational efficiencies.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodologies- (Year 1)
Dedicate significant effort to thoroughly understand and apply core quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Attend all research method seminars, engage with advanced statistical software like R or Python, and actively participate in methodology workshops to build a robust foundation for future research.
Tools & Resources
R/Python statistical packages, SPSS/AMOS, NVivo, Academic journals in POM
Career Connection
Strong methodological skills are crucial for conducting credible, publishable research, a fundamental requirement for academic positions and research roles.
Engage Deeply with Core Literature- (Year 1)
Proactively read and critically analyze foundational and seminal papers in Production and Operations Management. Form study groups with peers to discuss complex theories, identify research gaps, and develop a comprehensive understanding of the field''''s intellectual landscape, essential for shaping your own research trajectory.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, IIM Sambalpur Library databases
Career Connection
A deep understanding of existing literature is vital for identifying novel research questions and contributing original knowledge, a key aspect of successful PhD candidates and future faculty.
Build Faculty Mentorship Relationships- (Year 1)
Initiate discussions with faculty in the P&OM area to understand their research interests and ongoing projects. Seek early mentorship, attend faculty research presentations, and express interest in collaborating on small projects or literature reviews, fostering invaluable guidance and networking opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Faculty office hours, Department seminars, Research colloquia
Career Connection
Strong faculty mentorship can lead to co-authored publications, strong recommendation letters, and invaluable career advice for academic placements in India.
Intermediate Stage
Prepare Rigorously for Comprehensive Exams- (After Year 1 / Early Year 2)
Systematically review all coursework material, engage in mock exams, and dedicate focused study time to prepare for the comprehensive examination. This critical milestone assesses your mastery of the field and readiness for thesis research, often requiring conceptual understanding and analytical application.
Tools & Resources
Course notes, Textbooks, Past exam papers (if available), Study groups
Career Connection
Passing comprehensive exams is a mandatory step for PhD progression and demonstrates your intellectual rigor and depth of knowledge to prospective academic employers.
Develop a Robust Thesis Proposal- (Year 2)
Work closely with your supervisor to identify a significant research problem, formulate clear research questions, and outline a detailed methodology. Present your proposal in doctoral seminars, incorporate feedback, and refine it to ensure originality, feasibility, and scholarly contribution before the proposal defense.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, Literature review tools, Word processors for structuring
Career Connection
A well-defined and defended thesis proposal is the blueprint for your dissertation and a strong indicator of your potential as an independent researcher.
Attend and Present at Conferences- (Year 2 onwards)
Submit research ideas or early-stage papers to relevant national and international academic conferences in Operations Management. Presenting your work allows for valuable feedback, networking with established scholars, and getting exposed to the latest research trends in the Indian and global context.
Tools & Resources
Decision Sciences Institute (DSI), POMS (Production and Operations Management Society), IIM Sambalpur research grants for travel
Career Connection
Conference participation boosts your academic profile, signals research productivity, and provides opportunities for job market networking.
Advanced Stage
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Year 3 onwards)
Prioritize transforming your thesis chapters and other research into publishable manuscripts. Target reputable, peer-reviewed journals in Operations Management. Work diligently on revisions based on reviewer feedback, as publications are critical for academic job market success.
Tools & Resources
Journal of Operations Management, Production and Operations Management, Management Science, Omega
Career Connection
Journal publications are the primary currency for academic placements and promotions in India and globally, demonstrating your research impact and expertise.
Build a Professional Academic Network- (Year 3 onwards)
Actively network with faculty, industry experts, and fellow doctoral students at conferences, workshops, and institutional events. Engage in collaborative projects, seek advice, and establish connections that can lead to future research partnerships, mentorship, and career opportunities within the Indian academic ecosystem.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional association memberships, IIM Sambalpur Alumni network
Career Connection
A strong professional network is invaluable for job referrals, collaborations, and staying updated with academic trends and opportunities.
Prepare for the Academic Job Market- (Final Year (Year 4/5))
Develop a compelling academic CV, teaching statement, and research statement. Practice job talks and chalk talks extensively. Attend job market workshops and leverage your supervisor''''s network for placement opportunities at Indian B-schools and universities.
Tools & Resources
IIM Sambalpur Career services, Faculty advisors, Mock interview panels
Career Connection
Thorough preparation for the academic job market is essential for securing desirable faculty positions and launching a successful research and teaching career.



