

PHD in Design at Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences


Solan, Himachal Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Design at Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences Solan?
This Design PhD program at Shoolini University focuses on fostering advanced research capabilities in various facets of design, including theoretical explorations, practical applications, and interdisciplinary studies. It aims to address complex design challenges relevant to India''''s rapidly evolving industrial and social landscapes, emphasizing innovation, creativity, and sustainable solutions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in design, architecture, fine arts, or related fields aspiring to contribute significantly to design knowledge and practice through rigorous research. It also suits academics seeking to enhance their scholarly credentials and professionals looking to transition into R&D roles or teaching positions within Indian design institutions and universities.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as design researchers, university professors, innovation consultants, or lead R&D initiatives in prominent Indian companies and design studios. Potential salary ranges from INR 8-15 LPA for entry-level academic/research positions, growing significantly with experience, contributing to intellectual leadership in design across various sectors and shaping future design education.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Research Methodology- (Semester 1 (Coursework))
Engage deeply with the coursework on research methodologies, focusing on both qualitative and quantitative techniques relevant to design. Actively participate in seminars, solve case studies, and apply concepts to preliminary research questions in design. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor on initial research ideas and proposed approaches.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), Qualitative analysis tools (e.g., NVivo), University library databases (JSTOR, Scopus)
Career Connection
A strong methodological understanding is crucial for any research-oriented career, enabling you to conduct credible and impactful studies in academia, industrial R&D, or design consultancy roles, setting a robust foundation for your doctoral work.
Developing a Robust Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically identify, critically evaluate, and synthesize existing literature relevant to your chosen design research area. Utilize advanced search strategies and academic databases. Attend university workshops on literature review and academic writing to refine your approach, ensuring comprehensive coverage and critical analysis.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (e.g., Mendeley, Zotero), Academic databases (Web of Science, Google Scholar, Design-specific archives), University writing center services
Career Connection
A well-structured literature review forms the bedrock of a strong research proposal, essential for securing project funding, demonstrating scholarly rigor for academic positions, and identifying significant gaps for your unique contribution to the design field.
Cultivating Interdisciplinary Design Thinking- (Year 1)
Actively explore interdisciplinary perspectives in design by attending university-wide seminars, collaborating with researchers from other departments (e.g., engineering, management, social sciences), and engaging with diverse design philosophies beyond your immediate specialization. Participate in design workshops and hackathons to broaden your practical exposure.
Tools & Resources
Design thinking toolkits, Cross-departmental research groups, Online courses on related disciplines (e.g., UX, sustainability, material science)
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary skills are highly valued in modern design research and innovation, opening doors to diverse R&D and consultancy roles in complex problem-solving domains that often require bridging multiple fields, making you a versatile professional.
Intermediate Stage
Ethical Research and Data Management- (Year 2)
Ensure all research activities adhere to ethical guidelines, obtaining necessary clearances from the Institutional Ethics Committee before commencing data collection. Develop meticulous data management plans, including secure storage, privacy protocols, and accurate record-keeping for both qualitative and quantitative data.
Tools & Resources
University Ethics Committee guidelines and forms, Data encryption tools, Cloud storage solutions with robust security features
Career Connection
Adherence to ethical standards builds credibility and trust, crucial for academic reputation and for working on sensitive projects in industry or government, particularly in fields like user experience design and product development in India.
Presenting Research at Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Prepare and present your research progress at national and international conferences, symposia, and university research workshops. Seek constructive feedback from peers and experts to refine your research direction, enhance your presentation skills, and engage in critical academic discourse.
Tools & Resources
Conference search platforms (e.g., WikiCFP, relevant professional body websites), Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote), Departmental presentation training and mock defense sessions
Career Connection
Presenting builds your academic network, enhances communication skills, and is a vital step towards establishing yourself as an expert in your design research domain, opening avenues for collaborations and future employment in academia or industry.
Seeking Collaborative Opportunities- (Year 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities for collaborative research projects with faculty, industry partners, or other research institutions. These collaborations can provide access to diverse resources, expand your research scope, and strengthen your professional network, potentially leading to joint publications and grants.
Tools & Resources
Faculty research interest groups, Industry-academia partnership platforms (e.g., NASSCOM, CII design forums), Research grant portals (e.g., DST, DBT, SERB)
Career Connection
Collaboration skills are essential for large-scale projects and demonstrate leadership potential, highly valued in both academic and corporate research environments in India, especially for tackling complex societal and industrial design challenges.
Advanced Stage
Strategizing High-Impact Publications- (Year 3+)
Work closely with your supervisor to identify suitable high-impact journals or peer-reviewed conference proceedings for publishing chapters or key findings from your thesis. Focus on clear, concise writing and rigorous argumentation, ensuring your work contributes meaningfully to the existing body of design knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Journal ranking databases (e.g., Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar Metrics), Academic writing guides specific to design disciplines, Grammar and style checking tools (e.g., Grammarly, Hemingway Editor)
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for securing academic positions, gaining promotions, and enhancing your visibility and reputation in the global and Indian research community, demonstrating your ability to produce original and significant scholarly work.
Developing a Teaching Portfolio- (Year 3+)
If pursuing an academic career, gain teaching experience by assisting professors, co-teaching courses, or delivering guest lectures within the School of Design. Document your teaching philosophy, methods, and student feedback to build a comprehensive teaching portfolio that showcases your pedagogical competence.
Tools & Resources
University teaching and learning centre workshops, Peer observation programs for teaching, Student feedback surveys and evaluation reports
Career Connection
A well-prepared teaching portfolio is crucial for securing faculty positions in universities and colleges, demonstrating your pedagogical competence alongside your research prowess, making you a well-rounded candidate for academic roles in India.
Professional Networking and Career Planning- (undefined)
Attend professional design conferences, workshops, and alumni events to network with potential employers, collaborators, and mentors. Develop a clear career plan, whether in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship, and tailor your final thesis, resume, and job applications accordingly to align with your chosen path.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn and other professional networking platforms, Professional design associations (e.g., Association of Designers of India - ADI), University career services and alumni network events
Career Connection
Effective networking can lead to job opportunities, post-doctoral fellowships, and collaborations that are vital for long-term career success and impact in the design field, both within India and internationally, establishing you as a recognized expert.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in Design/ Architecture/ Planning/ Fine Arts/ Humanities/ Social Sciences/ Technology/ Management/ Sciences with 55% aggregate marks. Relaxation as per UGC norms for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled categories.
Duration: Minimum 3 Years
Credits: Minimum 8, Maximum 16 (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-RM-301 | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Fundamentals of Research, Research Design and Ethics, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Data Collection and Analysis Techniques, Computer Applications in Research |
| PHD-RLD-302 | Review of Literature in Design | Core | 3 | Identifying Research Gaps, Systematic Literature Search, Critical Analysis of Design Research, Synthesizing Research Findings, Academic Integrity and Referencing |
| PHD-TRA-303 | Teaching and Research Aptitude | Core | 3 | Pedagogical Approaches in Higher Education, Academic Presentation Skills, Academic Writing for Publication, Grant Proposal Development, Intellectual Property Rights |
| PHD-ADR-304 | Advanced Topics in Design Research | Core (Specialized) | 3 | Emerging Design Paradigms, Design Thinking Methodologies, User-Centred Design Research, Sustainable Design Practices, Design for Social Impact, Interdisciplinary Design Approaches |




