

PHD in Signal Processing at Indian Institute of Technology Mandi


Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Signal Processing at Indian Institute of Technology Mandi Mandi?
This Signal Processing program at IIT Mandi focuses on advanced theoretical foundations and practical applications across various domains, crucial for India''''s growing digital infrastructure and technology sector. It emphasizes research into areas like intelligent signal analysis, machine learning for signals, and embedded system implementations, catering to the burgeoning demand for specialized engineers in telecommunications, healthcare, and defense in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated individuals holding B.Tech/M.Tech degrees in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, or Computer Science, who aspire to conduct cutting-edge research. It is suited for fresh graduates aiming for academic or R&D roles, as well as working professionals seeking to deepen their expertise and contribute to innovation in India''''s technology landscape. Candidates with a strong mathematical aptitude and a passion for problem-solving are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure impactful roles as research scientists, lead engineers, or faculty members in leading academic institutions and R&D divisions within India''''s top companies. Career paths include AI/ML engineer, DSP architect, data scientist, or consultant. Starting salaries typically range from INR 10-25 LPA, with significant growth potential in specialized roles within major tech hubs like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Signal Processing Concepts- (Year 1)
Dedicate the first year to thoroughly mastering core and advanced signal processing coursework. Actively participate in lectures, solve problems, and engage with professors. This foundational knowledge is crucial for identifying novel research problems and developing robust methodologies.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, MATLAB/Python for signal processing, Textbooks (e.g., Oppenheim & Schafer, Kay)
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are essential for tackling complex research problems and are highly valued in R&D roles in companies like Qualcomm, TCS, or government labs.
Engage in Extensive Literature Review- (Year 1-2)
Begin a comprehensive literature review early in the first year to understand the state-of-the-art in chosen sub-domains. Identify research gaps, emerging trends, and potential areas for contribution. Discuss findings regularly with your supervisor and peers.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Zotero/Mendeley for reference management
Career Connection
Develops critical analysis skills and domain expertise, vital for academic publishing and leading research projects in industry.
Build a Strong Peer Network- (Year 1-2)
Connect with fellow PhD scholars, post-docs, and senior researchers within SCEE and related departments. Collaborate on study groups, discuss research ideas, and attend internal seminars. This fosters a supportive academic environment and broadens your perspective.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Research group meetings, Student symposiums, IIT Mandi research colloquia
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for future collaborations, academic positions, and industry connections in India and abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Methodology- (Year 2-3)
Translate identified research gaps into a clear problem statement, concrete objectives, and a detailed research methodology. Focus on innovative approaches, theoretical derivations, and experimental design. Regular meetings with your supervisor are key to refining your approach.
Tools & Resources
Simulation tools (MATLAB/Python/TensorFlow/PyTorch), High-performance computing clusters, Institutional research guidelines
Career Connection
This stage is critical for developing independent research skills, which are highly sought after in R&D roles and academia.
Seek Collaborative Opportunities- (Year 2-3)
Actively look for collaboration opportunities within IIT Mandi or with other IITs/research institutions in India. Joint projects can lead to richer research, broader impact, and co-authored publications, enhancing your research profile.
Tools & Resources
Research workshops, Conferences (national and international), Faculty connections
Career Connection
Collaborative experience is invaluable for multi-disciplinary projects in both industry R&D and academic consortia.
Present Research at Conferences/Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Prepare and submit research findings to reputable national and international conferences and workshops. Presenting your work helps refine your presentation skills, gather feedback, and establish your presence in the research community.
Tools & Resources
IEEE conferences (ICASSP, EUSIPCO), Workshops organized by premier institutes
Career Connection
Builds a strong publication record, necessary for academic positions and highly regarded by R&D companies in India.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize High-Quality Publication- (Year 3-5+)
Aim to publish your research findings in top-tier, peer-reviewed journals and conferences. Focus on clarity, rigor, and impact. A strong publication record is paramount for both academic and competitive industrial R&D positions.
Tools & Resources
Journal guidelines (IEEE Transactions, Elsevier, Springer), Institutional research writing workshops
Career Connection
A robust publication list is the most significant indicator of research capability, opening doors to top-tier research positions and post-doctoral fellowships.
Master Thesis Writing and Defense Skills- (Year 4-5+)
Dedicate significant time to meticulously writing your doctoral thesis, ensuring it reflects the depth and originality of your research. Practice your thesis defense presentation extensively, anticipating questions and clearly articulating your contributions.
Tools & Resources
Thesis templates, Academic writing software (LaTeX), Mock defense sessions with peers and faculty
Career Connection
Successfully defending your thesis signifies the culmination of your research training, preparing you for independent leadership roles in academia and industry.
Strategic Career Planning and Networking- (Year 4-5+)
Towards the final stages of your PhD, actively engage in career planning. Network with potential employers, attend career fairs, and prepare tailored applications for academic, industrial R&D, or entrepreneurial roles. Leverage your IIT Mandi alumni network.
Tools & Resources
Career development cells, LinkedIn, Alumni networks, Faculty recommendations, Mock interviews
Career Connection
Proactive planning ensures a smooth transition from academia to a fulfilling career, whether in research, development, or entrepreneurship within India''''s dynamic tech sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- M.Tech/M.E./M.S. in Electrical Engineering/Electronics Engineering/Computer Science/Information Technology or allied areas OR B.Tech/B.E./B.S. in Electrical Engineering/Electronics Engineering/Computer Science/Information Technology or allied areas with excellent academic record OR M.Sc./M.A. in Physics/Mathematics/Statistics/Computer Science/Electronics or allied areas with excellent academic record. A valid GATE score or UGC/CSIR-NET/NBHM/DST-Inspire fellowship is often required for financial assistance.
Duration: Minimum 2-3 years (varies based on entry qualification)
Credits: Minimum 12 credits (after M.Tech) / 24 credits (after B.Tech/M.Sc) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE512 | Digital Signal Processing (DSP) | Core/Elective | 6 | Discrete-time signals and systems, Z-transform and its applications, Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) and FFT algorithms, FIR and IIR filter design techniques, Adaptive filters and their applications, Multi-rate signal processing |
| EE612 | Advanced Digital Signal Processing (ADSP) | Elective | 6 | Statistical signal processing fundamentals, Time-frequency analysis techniques, Wavelet transforms and multi-resolution analysis, Array signal processing and beamforming, Source separation and independent component analysis, Advanced spectral estimation methods |
| EE614 | Image and Video Processing | Elective | 6 | Image formation and perception, Image enhancement and restoration techniques, Image segmentation and feature extraction, Image compression standards, Video motion estimation and compensation, Object recognition and tracking in video |
| EE616 | Statistical Signal Processing | Elective | 6 | Random processes and stochastic models, Linear prediction and optimal filtering, Estimation theory (MMSE, MAP, ML estimators), Detection theory (hypothesis testing, Neyman-Pearson), Kalman filtering and its extensions, Non-parametric spectral estimation |
| EE624 | Speech Processing | Elective | 6 | Speech production and perception models, Speech analysis techniques (LPC, MFCC), Feature extraction for speech processing, Speech recognition systems, Speech synthesis and coding, Speaker identification and verification |
| EE626 | Biomedical Signal Processing | Elective | 6 | Physiological signal acquisition (ECG, EEG, EMG), Noise reduction and artifact removal, Feature extraction from biomedical signals, Classification and pattern recognition for diagnosis, Time-frequency analysis of physiological signals, Medical imaging fundamentals and processing |
| EE711 | Signal Detection and Estimation | Elective | 6 | Hypothesis testing fundamentals, Bayesian and classical estimation, Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE), Cramer-Rao Lower Bound (CRLB), Non-parametric detection techniques, Sequential detection and estimation |
| EE712 | Adaptive Signal Processing | Elective | 6 | Wiener filter theory, Least Mean Squares (LMS) algorithm, Recursive Least Squares (RLS) algorithm, Adaptive equalization and noise cancellation, Adaptive beamforming and array processing, Blind source separation techniques |
| EE713 | Compressive Sensing | Elective | 6 | Sparse signal representation, Restricted Isometry Property (RIP), L1 minimization and basis pursuit, Orthogonal Matching Pursuit (OMP), Reconstruction algorithms for sparse signals, Applications in imaging and communication |




