

PHD in Operations Management at School of Petroleum Management, Pandit Deendayal Energy University


Gandhinagar, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Operations Management at School of Petroleum Management, Pandit Deendayal Energy University Gandhinagar?
This Operations Management PhD program at the School of Petroleum Management, PDEU, focuses on advanced research in optimizing business processes, supply chains, and resource allocation. It addresses contemporary challenges in energy and allied sectors, emphasizing innovative solutions relevant to India''''s dynamic industrial landscape and its growing energy demands.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, industry research professionals, and senior management keen on contributing to the body of knowledge in operations management. It attracts candidates with a strong analytical bent, a Master''''s degree in management or engineering, and a desire to tackle complex operational issues through rigorous academic research.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, in R&D departments of major Indian energy and manufacturing firms, or in consulting roles requiring specialized operational expertise. They contribute to policy formulation and strategic decision-making, with potential to earn competitive salaries and lead significant operational improvements across various industries.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Research Methodology- (Semesters 1-2)
Thoroughly understand and apply diverse research designs, statistical techniques, and qualitative methods critical for operations research. Focus on inferential statistics, econometric modeling, and advanced qualitative data analysis.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Python (for statistical packages), NVivo (for qualitative analysis), PDEU Library databases (Scopus, Web of Science)
Career Connection
Essential for designing robust studies, leading to high-quality publications and credible research findings, vital for academic and industry research roles.
Immerse in Operations Management Literature- (Semesters 1-2)
Conduct exhaustive literature reviews to identify significant research gaps and emerging trends in operations management, particularly within the energy and manufacturing sectors. Engage with seminal and contemporary works.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Departmental research seminars
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and helps in formulating a unique research problem, a cornerstone for a successful thesis and future research independence.
Engage with Faculty and Doctoral Committee- (Semesters 1-2)
Regularly interact with faculty advisors and members of the Doctoral Committee to refine research ideas, seek guidance on coursework, and understand expectations for comprehensive exams and thesis progression.
Tools & Resources
Scheduled meetings, Email communication, Attending faculty research presentations
Career Connection
Builds a strong mentorship network, crucial for navigating academic challenges, receiving timely feedback, and securing recommendations for post-PhD opportunities.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Semesters 3-4)
Formulate a clear, well-structured research proposal outlining the problem statement, objectives, methodology, and expected contributions. Present it for departmental and committee approval.
Tools & Resources
Research proposal templates, Faculty feedback, Mock presentations, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Demonstrates ability to conceptualize and plan independent research, a key skill for securing grants and leading research projects in academia or industry.
Excel in Comprehensive Viva-Voce Examination- (Semesters 4-5)
Prepare rigorously for the comprehensive exam, demonstrating in-depth knowledge of operations management theories, research methodologies, and the proposed research area.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Past comprehensive exam questions (if available), Regular revisions of core OM concepts and research methods
Career Connection
Validates mastery of the subject, boosts confidence for future academic presentations and thesis defense, and is a prerequisite for advancing to candidacy.
Seek Early Publication Opportunities- (Semesters 3-5)
Convert literature review chapters or preliminary research findings into publishable papers for national or international conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
Tools & Resources
Target relevant journals (e.g., in operations research, supply chain management), Academic writing support, Faculty co-authorship
Career Connection
Enhances academic profile, establishes researcher credibility, and significantly improves prospects for academic placements and post-doctoral fellowships.
Advanced Stage
Maintain Consistent Thesis Writing Discipline- (Semesters 6-7)
Establish a consistent writing schedule for the thesis, focusing on logical flow, rigorous argumentation, and adherence to academic standards. Regularly share drafts with the supervisor for feedback.
Tools & Resources
Writing software (e.g., LaTeX, MS Word), Grammar checkers (e.g., Grammarly), Thesis writing guidelines from PDEU
Career Connection
Ensures timely completion of the PhD, demonstrates research communication skills, and prepares for authoring research papers and books.
Prepare for Pre-Synopsis Seminar and Thesis Defense- (Semesters 7-8)
Practice presenting research findings, methodology, and contributions clearly and concisely for the pre-synopsis seminar and final thesis defense. Anticipate and prepare for challenging questions.
Tools & Resources
Mock defense sessions with peers and faculty, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Prezi), Feedback from supervisor
Career Connection
Develops strong oral communication and defense skills, critical for academic interviews, conference presentations, and defending research in professional settings.
Network and Explore Career Paths- (Semester 8)
Actively network with professionals and academics at conferences, workshops, and industry events. Explore various career options in academia, research, or industry consulting.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., POM Society, INFORMS), Career services at PDEU, Attending job talks
Career Connection
Facilitates job search, opens doors to collaborations, and helps in making informed decisions about the next steps post-PhD.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Engineering / Technology / Science / Humanities / Social Sciences / Management / Pharmacy / Law / Commerce or an equivalent degree with at least 55% marks in aggregate or equivalent grade. Candidates must also pass the entrance test conducted by the University (PDEU-ET) or be exempted from PDEU-ET (e.g., UGC-NET (including JRF)/UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holder or M.Phil. Degree holder).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (for full-time candidates)
Credits: Minimum 8 credits, Maximum 16 credits (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified




