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PHD in Electrical Engineering at School of Technology
Gandhinagar, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Electrical Engineering at School of Technology Gandhinagar?
This Electrical Engineering PhD program at the School of Technology, PDEU, Gandhinagar, focuses on nurturing high-caliber researchers and innovators. It emphasizes cutting-edge research in crucial domains like power systems, renewable energy, smart grids, control systems, and advanced electronics, aligning with India''''s ambitious energy transition and industrial automation goals. The program distinguishes itself by integrating theoretical depth with practical applications, preparing scholars to address complex engineering challenges relevant to the Indian and global markets.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated individuals holding M.Tech/M.E. degrees in Electrical Engineering or related fields, seeking to contribute original research to the academic and industrial landscape. It also caters to exceptional B.Tech/B.E. graduates with strong academic records and relevant GATE/NET qualifications, along with industry professionals looking to deepen their expertise and pivot into research or senior R&D roles within India''''s dynamic electrical sector.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue impactful careers in academia as professors or postdoctoral researchers, or secure senior R&D positions in public sector undertakings (PSUs) like NTPC, Power Grid, and DRDO, or private sector giants such as Siemens, ABB, and GE in India. Entry-level academic salaries typically range from 7-10 LPA, while R&D roles can command 8-15 LPA, with significant growth potential as they lead research initiatives and contribute to technological advancements vital for India''''s economic growth.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Coursework & Research Methodology- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with the compulsory Research Methodology course and chosen advanced electives. Aim for conceptual clarity, actively participate in discussions, and score well to build a robust foundation for your research. This stage is crucial for identifying your niche and understanding the tools required.
Tools & Resources
Official course materials, Textbooks on advanced topics, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Web of Science for initial literature search
Career Connection
A strong academic record in coursework demonstrates your analytical rigor and ability to grasp complex topics, critical for both academic and industrial research positions.
Comprehensive Literature Review and Problem Identification- (Semester 1-2)
Conduct an exhaustive review of existing literature in your broad area of interest. Identify research gaps, unaddressed problems, and potential avenues for original contributions. This forms the bedrock of your research proposal and helps in refining your specific research question.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, ACM Digital Library), Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Supervisor guidance
Career Connection
The ability to critically analyze existing research and identify novel problems is a core skill for any successful researcher, preparing you for independent research roles.
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Semester 2)
Work closely with your supervisor to formulate a well-defined research problem, clear objectives, a detailed methodology, and expected outcomes. The proposal should be innovative, feasible, and demonstrate a significant contribution to the field of Electrical Engineering. Prepare for your initial research committee presentations.
Tools & Resources
Research Proposal Guidelines (University), Microsoft Word/LaTeX for documentation, Presentation software (PowerPoint/Keynote)
Career Connection
A strong research proposal showcases your organizational skills, logical thinking, and ability to plan complex projects, which are highly valued in R&D and project management roles.
Intermediate Stage
Proficiency in Simulation and Experimental Tools- (Semester 3-5)
Gain hands-on expertise in industry-standard simulation software like MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD, ETAP, and laboratory equipment relevant to your research. Regularly experiment, analyze results, and troubleshoot issues to validate theoretical concepts and build practical skills.
Tools & Resources
MATLAB/Simulink, PSCAD/ETAP (depending on power systems focus), LabVIEW, Access to departmental research labs and computing facilities
Career Connection
Practical skills in simulation and experimentation are indispensable for R&D engineers and academic researchers, enabling you to design, test, and analyze complex electrical systems.
Active Participation in Conferences and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Attend and present your preliminary research findings at national and international conferences. Engage in workshops to learn new techniques and network with fellow researchers and experts in your field. Seek constructive feedback to improve your research direction.
Tools & Resources
Conference websites (IEEE, IET), University travel grants/funding, Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn, ResearchGate)
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences enhances your communication skills, visibility within the research community, and opens doors for collaborations and career opportunities.
Targeting Early Publications- (Semester 4-5)
Begin writing and submitting your research work to peer-reviewed journals or reputable conference proceedings as soon as you have significant preliminary results. Even early publications build your research profile and provide invaluable experience in the publication process.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission portals (Elsevier, Springer, IEEE), Grammar and plagiarism checkers (Grammarly, Turnitin), Supervisor for review
Career Connection
Publications are the currency of academia and research. Early publications strengthen your CV, making you a more attractive candidate for postdoctoral positions or academic faculty roles.
Advanced Stage
Achieve High-Impact Journal Publications- (Semester 6-8)
Focus on developing your most significant research contributions into high-quality manuscripts for submission to Scopus/WoS indexed journals with good impact factors. Aim for at least 2-3 significant journal publications to demonstrate scholarly impact.
Tools & Resources
Targeted journal selection, Manuscript preparation guidelines, Collaborative writing tools
Career Connection
High-impact publications are crucial for establishing your expertise, securing research grants, and advancing your career in both academia and top-tier industrial R&D labs.
Meticulous Doctoral Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Semester 6-8)
Dedicate focused effort to writing your doctoral thesis, ensuring it is coherent, well-structured, and adheres to all institutional guidelines. Regularly share drafts with your supervisor, incorporate feedback, and prepare thoroughly for your pre-synopsis and final thesis defense presentations.
Tools & Resources
University thesis guidelines, LaTeX/Microsoft Word for thesis formatting, Presentation practice sessions
Career Connection
Successfully completing and defending your thesis is the culmination of your PhD journey, proving your ability to undertake and manage a large-scale research project independently.
Strategic Career Planning and Networking- (Semester 7-8)
Alongside your research, actively explore post-PhD career options in academia, industry R&D, or entrepreneurship. Network strategically with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals. Prepare your CV/resume, teaching statements, and research statements tailored to specific job applications.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Professional associations (IEEE, IET), LinkedIn for professional networking, Mock interview practice
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and networking significantly enhance your chances of securing a desirable position post-PhD, whether in a research institution, a technology company, or establishing your own venture.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Engg./Tech. (M.E./M.Tech.) or equivalent with minimum 60% aggregate marks/6.5 CGPA; OR Bachelor''''s degree in Engg./Tech. (B.E./B.Tech.) or equivalent with minimum 75% aggregate marks/8.0 CGPA, relevant GATE/UGC-CSIR NET qualification and minimum two years relevant experience; OR M.Sc./M.Phil. in relevant discipline with minimum 60% aggregate marks/6.5 CGPA, relevant GATE/UGC-CSIR NET qualification.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (6 semesters), Maximum 6 years (12 semesters)
Credits: 8-12 credits (for M.Tech/M.E. candidates), 16-20 credits (for B.Tech/B.E. candidates) Credits
Assessment: Internal: As per University''''s prevalent PG evaluation system (typically 40% for continuous assessment), External: As per University''''s prevalent PG evaluation system (typically 60% for end-semester examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester coursework
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE8001 | Advanced Digital Signal Processing | Elective | 4 | Discrete-time signals and systems, Digital filter design, Multirate signal processing, Wavelet transforms, Adaptive filters |
| EE8002 | Advanced Control System Design | Elective | 4 | State-space analysis, Nonlinear control systems, Optimal control, Robust control, Adaptive control techniques |
| EE8003 | Advanced Power System Operation and Control | Elective | 4 | Load flow studies, Economic dispatch, Unit commitment, Security constrained operation, Voltage and frequency control |
| EE8004 | Electric Drives | Elective | 4 | DC motor drives, AC motor drives, Control strategies for drives, Power electronic converters, Regenerative braking |
| EE8005 | Advanced Digital Communication | Elective | 4 | Information theory, Coding theory, MIMO systems, Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), Spread spectrum communication |
| EE8006 | Advanced Opto-Electronics | Elective | 4 | Semiconductor physics, Optical sources and detectors, Optical fibers, Waveguides, Optical communication systems |
| EE8007 | Advanced Power Electronics | Elective | 4 | Converter topologies, Modulation techniques, DC-DC converters, Inverters, Harmonic reduction |
| EE8008 | Advanced Microprocessor and Microcontroller | Elective | 4 | Microprocessor architectures, Microcontroller programming, Interfacing techniques, Embedded systems design, Real-time operating systems |
| EE8009 | Smart Grid | Elective | 4 | Smart grid architecture, Advanced metering infrastructure, Renewable energy integration, Cybersecurity in smart grid, Demand-side management |
| EE8010 | Renewable Energy Sources | Elective | 4 | Solar photovoltaic systems, Wind energy conversion, Bioenergy, Hydroelectric power, Geothermal energy |
| EE8011 | Advanced Power System Protection | Elective | 4 | Relay characteristics, Generator protection, Transformer protection, Transmission line protection, Digital protection schemes |
| EE8012 | Computer Aided Power System Analysis | Elective | 4 | Load flow algorithms, Fault analysis, Stability analysis, Power system transients, Software tools for power systems |
| EE8013 | High Voltage Engineering | Elective | 4 | Breakdown phenomena in dielectrics, High voltage generation, Measurement techniques, Insulation coordination, Testing of electrical apparatus |
| EE8014 | Power System Transients | Elective | 4 | Switching transients, Lightning overvoltages, Travelling waves, Insulation coordination, Protection against transients |
| EE8015 | Power System Restructuring | Elective | 4 | Deregulation models, Electricity markets, Transmission pricing, Ancillary services, Regulatory frameworks |
| EE8016 | Non-Conventional Electrical Machines | Elective | 4 | Switched reluctance motors, Permanent magnet machines, Linear induction motors, Axial flux machines, Special purpose machines |
| EE8017 | Electrical Machine Design | Elective | 4 | Design principles, Magnetic circuit design, Thermal considerations, Material selection, Computer-aided design |
| EE8018 | Fuzzy Logic & Neural Networks | Elective | 4 | Fuzzy set theory, Fuzzy inference systems, Artificial neural networks, Learning algorithms, Applications in electrical engineering |
| EE8019 | Digital Image Processing | Elective | 4 | Image enhancement, Image restoration, Image segmentation, Feature extraction, Object recognition |
| EE8020 | Robust and Optimal Control | Elective | 4 | H-infinity control, Mu-synthesis, Linear quadratic regulator (LQR), Kalman filter, Stochastic control |
| EE8021 | Adaptive Control | Elective | 4 | Model reference adaptive control, Self-tuning regulators, Parameter estimation, Stability analysis, Applications in power systems |
| EE8022 | Industrial Instrumentation & Control | Elective | 4 | Sensors and transducers, Signal conditioning, Process control loops, Programmable logic controllers (PLCs), Distributed control systems (DCS) |
| EE8023 | Power Quality | Elective | 4 | Voltage sags and swells, Harmonics, Flicker, Power factor correction, Active power filters |
| EE8024 | Wide Area Measurement System | Elective | 4 | Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs), Synchrophasor technology, State estimation, Situational awareness, Oscillation damping |
| EE8025 | Special Topic in Electrical Engineering (I) | Elective | 4 | Emerging areas in Electrical Engineering decided by faculty |
| EE8026 | Special Topic in Electrical Engineering (II) | Elective | 4 | Advanced emerging areas in Electrical Engineering decided by faculty |
Semester coursework
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE8027 | Research Methodology | Compulsory | 4 | Research problem formulation, Literature review techniques, Data collection and analysis, Thesis writing, Research ethics and intellectual property |
