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PHD-CHEMISTRY in Inorganic Chemistry at Sree Sankara College, Kalady
Ernakulam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Inorganic Chemistry at Sree Sankara College, Kalady Ernakulam?
This Inorganic Chemistry PhD program at Sree Sankara College, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, focuses on advanced research into the synthesis, structure, bonding, and reactivity of inorganic compounds. It delves into the fundamental principles and modern applications of inorganic materials, catalysis, and bioinorganic systems, addressing critical challenges relevant to India''''s burgeoning chemical and materials science industries.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated postgraduates in Chemistry (M.Sc. Inorganic/General Chemistry) seeking a deep dive into advanced research. It suits individuals with a strong theoretical foundation, practical lab skills, and a passion for scientific inquiry, preparing them for R&D roles in both academia and industry in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as research scientists, university professors, and R&D specialists in India''''s chemical, pharmaceutical, and materials sectors. Roles might include positions in CSIR labs, DRDO, or private companies like Reliance Industries or pharmaceutical giants, with starting salaries for PhDs often ranging from INR 6-12 LPA, growing significantly with experience.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology- (First 6-12 months)
Thoroughly understand research ethics, literature review techniques, statistical analysis, and Intellectual Property Rights. Utilize university workshops and online courses (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera) for deeper insights.
Tools & Resources
MGU Library database, Scopus, Web of Science, Mendeley/Zotero, SPSS/R, NPTEL Research Methodology course
Career Connection
Essential for conducting ethical and impactful research, crucial for academic and industrial R&D roles.
Deep Dive into Specialization Topics- (First 6-12 months)
Beyond coursework, read seminal papers and advanced textbooks in Inorganic Chemistry. Actively participate in departmental seminars and discussions to identify potential research gaps and refine your research topic.
Tools & Resources
Royal Society of Chemistry journals, American Chemical Society journals, Advanced inorganic chemistry texts (e.g., Cotton & Wilkinson, Shriver & Atkins)
Career Connection
Builds a strong foundation for your thesis work and establishes expertise for future roles in specialized R&D.
Cultivate a Strong Mentor-Mentee Relationship- (Throughout the entire PhD program, especially critical in the early stages)
Regularly meet with your supervisor to discuss progress, challenges, and future directions. Be proactive in seeking feedback and incorporating it into your work. This relationship is crucial for navigating the PhD journey.
Tools & Resources
Regular scheduled meetings, Detailed research notebooks
Career Connection
Mentors provide critical guidance, networking opportunities, and often serve as strong recommenders for post-doc or industry positions.
Intermediate Stage
Systematic Experimental Design & Data Analysis- (Years 2-4)
Develop robust experimental protocols, meticulously record observations, and apply appropriate statistical methods for data interpretation. Learn to troubleshoot experiments and interpret complex analytical results.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory equipment (NMR, IR, UV-Vis, Mass Spec), OriginPro, Excel, ChemDraw, Statistical software
Career Connection
Develops critical problem-solving and analytical skills highly valued in R&D, quality control, and scientific roles.
Aim for Early-Stage Publications & Presentations- (Years 2-4)
Present your preliminary research findings at national/international conferences and workshops. Target publishing at least one significant research paper in a peer-reviewed journal during this phase.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, National conferences (e.g., CRSI, ACS India), Reputable chemistry journals
Career Connection
Establishes your scientific credibility, builds your research profile, and is essential for post-doctoral applications and academic positions.
Expand Your Professional Network- (Years 2-5)
Actively engage with fellow researchers, faculty, and industry professionals at conferences, workshops, and online forums. Seek collaborations and discuss research ideas to broaden your perspective.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Conference networking sessions, University alumni network
Career Connection
Opens doors to future collaborations, job opportunities, and mentorship beyond your immediate supervisor.
Advanced Stage
Strategic Thesis Writing- (Years 4-6)
Begin writing your thesis chapters as your research progresses, rather than waiting until the end. Focus on clear, concise scientific writing and adhere strictly to university guidelines for thesis submission.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Microsoft Word, Grammar checkers (Grammarly), Thesis writing workshops
Career Connection
A well-written thesis showcases your communication skills and ability to synthesize complex research, critical for any advanced scientific role.
Prepare for Viva Voce & Future Roles- (Final 12-18 months)
Practice defending your research in mock vivas. Simultaneously, update your CV, prepare a compelling research statement, and actively apply for post-doctoral fellowships, academic positions, or industry R&D roles.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, Career services at MGU/Sree Sankara, Job portals (LinkedIn, Naukri, academic job boards)
Career Connection
Direct preparation for securing your next professional role after PhD.
Develop Grant Writing Skills- (Final 1-2 years)
While finishing your thesis, explore and practice writing small grant proposals. Understanding funding mechanisms is crucial for independent research careers in both academia and industry.
Tools & Resources
DST-SERB, DBT, CSIR funding call guidelines, Successful grant proposal examples
Career Connection
Essential for securing funding for your own research projects as a principal investigator, a key skill for senior academic and R&D roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade). Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/PwBD candidates as per UGC norms (50% marks). Passing the entrance examination conducted by the University or UGC-NET/CSIR-NET/GATE/DBT/ICMR/JEST/lectureship holders/fellowship holders exempted from the entrance exam.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (full-time)
Credits: 8 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM 0101 | Research Methodology | Core (Mandatory) | 4 | Introduction to Research and Research Ethics, Review of Literature and Thesis Writing, Statistical Tools and Data Analysis, Presentation Skills and Intellectual Property Rights, Modern Spectroscopic and Analytical Techniques |
| CHEM 0102 | Advanced Topics in Chemistry (Module 1: Advanced Inorganic Chemistry) | Core (Specialization-specific) | 4 | Symmetry and Group Theory in Chemistry, Advanced Concepts in Coordination Chemistry, Organometallic Chemistry and Catalysis, Bioinorganic Chemistry, Solid State and Materials Chemistry, Inorganic Spectroscopy |
