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PH-D in Quantum Technology at Indian Institute of Science
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Quantum Technology at Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru?
This Quantum Technology program at Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, focuses on fundamental and applied aspects of quantum science, addressing critical demands in India''''s emerging high-tech sectors. It integrates physics, engineering, and computer science to pioneer breakthroughs in quantum computing, communication, and sensing. The program aims to cultivate expertise vital for national strategic initiatives and the evolving global quantum landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for bright graduates with a strong background in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science, holding a BE/BTech, M.E/MTech, or MSc. It attracts individuals passionate about deep research, aspiring to contribute to foundational quantum science or develop cutting-edge quantum technologies. Working professionals seeking advanced research careers in academia or R&D labs in India also find this program suitable.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect leading research positions in Indian academic institutions like IITs/IISc, national research labs (e.g., DRDO, BARC), or corporate R&D divisions of global tech firms with a presence in India. Roles include Quantum Scientist, Research Engineer, and Algorithm Developer. Initial salaries range from INR 10-25 LPA, with significant growth potential, driving India''''s quantum ecosystem.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Quantum Concepts- (Coursework Stage (Year 1))
Diligent engagement with advanced coursework in quantum mechanics, information theory, and condensed matter physics is crucial. Focus on understanding the mathematical formalism and physical interpretations through extensive problem-solving and peer discussions.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Quantum Mechanics, Textbooks (e.g., Shankar, Nielsen & Chuang), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is essential for any quantum research, enabling innovative problem-solving in subsequent project work and future industrial R&D roles in India.
Build Computational Quantum Skills- (Coursework Stage (Year 1))
Develop proficiency in computational tools for simulating quantum systems and algorithms. Learn languages like Python with specialized libraries such as Qiskit, Cirq, or PennyLane, essential for practical applications.
Tools & Resources
Online quantum programming tutorials, IBM Quantum Experience, Google''''s Quantum AI platform, Project Euler for algorithmic thinking
Career Connection
Essential for practical quantum technology development, securing roles as Quantum Software Engineer or Algorithm Developer in Indian tech companies or startups.
Engage in Departmental Seminars and Workshops- (Coursework Stage (Year 1))
Actively attend and participate in research seminars, colloquia, and workshops organized by the Quantum Technology Initiative and related departments. This provides exposure to cutting-edge research directions and potential collaborators within the field.
Tools & Resources
IISc''''s academic calendar, QTI website for event listings, LinkedIn for networking with speakers
Career Connection
Fosters research aptitude, helps identify potential thesis advisors, and builds an early professional network within India''''s academic and research community.
Intermediate Stage
Identify and Initiate Research Project- (Years 2-3)
Work closely with potential supervisors to define a unique research problem, conduct a thorough literature review, and begin preliminary experiments or theoretical modeling. Actively attend national research conferences to identify gaps and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, arXiv for literature search, Departmental labs, computational clusters, simulation software
Career Connection
This defines the core of the PhD, leading to significant publications and shaping one''''s expertise, which is highly valued for academic and industrial research roles in India.
Develop Scientific Writing and Presentation Skills- (Years 2-4)
Regularly practice writing compelling research proposals, progress reports, and scientific papers. Present findings at internal group meetings, national conferences (e.g., DAE-BRNS symposia, SPIE Photonics India), and workshops.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX, Grammarly, Peer review with lab mates, Faculty feedback, Toastmasters clubs
Career Connection
Crucial for disseminating research, securing future funding, and advancing in academia or R&D. Strong communication skills are highly prized in any Indian research setup.
Seek Collaborative Research Opportunities- (Years 3-5)
Explore collaborations with other research groups within IISc, other national institutes (e.g., TIFR, IITs), or industry partners on interdisciplinary quantum projects to broaden perspectives and leverage diverse expertise.
Tools & Resources
Faculty network, institutional collaboration portals, National funding agency calls for proposals
Career Connection
Broadens research horizons, provides exposure to diverse methodologies, and builds a wider professional network, enhancing prospects for post-doctoral fellowships or senior R&D roles.
Advanced Stage
Prepare and Defend Thesis Rigorously- (Years 4-6)
Consolidate all research findings into a comprehensive thesis document, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and strict adherence to institutional guidelines. Practice thesis defense presentations extensively with committee members and peers.
Tools & Resources
IISc PhD regulations, thesis templates, Mock defense sessions with committee members and peers
Career Connection
The successful completion and defense of the thesis is the capstone achievement, opening doors to highly specialized research and academic positions in India and globally.
Publish High-Impact Research- (Years 3-6)
Aim to publish significant research findings in reputable international and national peer-reviewed journals and present at top-tier conferences, establishing a strong and visible publication record.
Tools & Resources
Journal selection guides, Peer feedback on manuscripts, Research grants for conference travel (e.g., SERB, DST)
Career Connection
A robust publication record is paramount for academic promotions, post-doctoral applications, and establishing credibility in any research-intensive role in India or internationally.
Strategize Post-PhD Career Path- (Years 5-6)
Actively network, apply for post-doctoral positions, faculty roles, or R&D jobs in industry. Tailor CVs, prepare for interviews, and seek mentorship for career guidance within the Indian and international quantum ecosystem.
Tools & Resources
IISc Career Cell, faculty advisors, Professional networking events (e.g., India Quantum Mission workshops), online job portals
Career Connection
Ensures a smooth transition into a desired career, whether in academic research, government labs, or private quantum technology companies, leveraging the high value of a specialized PhD from IISc.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Applicants must meet general IISc PhD admission criteria. Specifically, a Bachelor''''s degree (BE/BTech or equivalent) in Engineering/Technology or an Integrated Master’s degree (M.E/M.Tech or equivalent) in Engineering/Technology, or Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in Science, from a recognized University/Institute, with a strong background in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or other related disciplines are eligible to apply. Specific valid entrance exam scores (e.g., GATE, NET-JRF) or minimum academic percentages are required.
Duration: 4-6 years (including approximately 1 year of coursework)
Credits: Minimum 12 coursework credits Credits
Assessment: Internal: Variable (Quizzes, assignments, midterm examinations as decided by instructor), External: Variable (Final examinations, comprehensive Viva-Voce for PhD thesis defense)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester stage
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PH203 | Physics of Quantum Information | Core/Foundational | 3 | Quantum states and operations, Quantum entanglement, Quantum cryptography, Quantum computing models, Decoherence and error correction |
| EECell243 | Quantum Mechanics | Core/Foundational | 3 | Postulates of Quantum Mechanics, Operators and observables, Schrödinger equation, Perturbation theory, Angular momentum |
| CH201/PH215/EE223 | Quantum Information | Core/Foundational | 3 | Quantum bits and gates, Quantum algorithms (Shor''''s, Grover''''s), Quantum communication protocols, Quantum error correction, Physical implementations of qubits |
| PH206 | Condensed Matter Physics | Elective/Advanced | 3 | Crystalline structures, Lattice vibrations and phonons, Electronic band theory, Semiconductor physics, Superconductivity |
| EE229 | Advanced Solid State Devices | Elective/Advanced | 3 | Semiconductor device physics, Quantum dots and wires, Transistor scaling limits, Spintronic devices, Quantum optoelectronic devices |
| PH204 | Quantum Optics | Elective/Advanced | 3 | Quantization of electromagnetic field, Coherent states, Photon statistics, Atom-light interaction, Quantum entanglement in optics |
| EE221 | Optical Engineering | Elective/Advanced | 3 | Geometric and wave optics, Optical system design, Lasers and detectors, Fiber optics, Optical metrology |
| PH205 | Quantum Field Theory | Elective/Advanced | 3 | Canonical quantization, Feynman diagrams, Renormalization, Dirac and Klein-Gordon fields, Interacting fields |
| PH210 | Many-Body Theory | Elective/Advanced | 3 | Second quantization, Green''''s functions, Fermions and Bosons, Mean-field theories, Superfluidity and superconductivity |
