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PH-D-LAW in Information Technology And Intellectual Property at Symbiosis Law School, Pune
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Information Technology and Intellectual Property at Symbiosis Law School, Pune Pune?
This Information Technology and Intellectual Property program at Symbiosis Law School, Pune focuses on advanced legal research at the intersection of rapidly evolving technology and intellectual property rights. Given India''''s burgeoning IT sector and increasing focus on innovation, the specialization addresses critical legal challenges arising from digital transformation, artificial intelligence, data protection, cybersecurity, and the protection of new forms of IP, aligning with national policy frameworks and global legal developments.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for legal scholars, academicians, and practitioners holding an LL.M. degree with a keen interest in pursuing in-depth research in technology law and intellectual property. It is suitable for those aspiring to contribute original knowledge to the legal domain, influence policy, and work in research-intensive roles within academia, think tanks, or specialized law firms dealing with tech and IP issues in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become leading experts in Information Technology and Intellectual Property Law, positioned for roles as university professors, legal researchers, policy advisors, and consultants for Indian and multinational corporations. They can significantly influence jurisprudence and legislative reforms in India, command competitive salaries in specialized legal fields (ranging from INR 10-30+ LPA for experienced roles), and contribute to India''''s knowledge economy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Ethics- (Coursework Semester (typically Semester 1))
Actively engage with the coursework on research methodology, computer applications, and legal pedagogy. Develop a strong foundational understanding of empirical and doctrinal research methods, quantitative analysis, and ethical considerations crucial for robust legal scholarship. Utilize resources like academic journals, SIU''''s digital library, and statistical software training to build a solid research base.
Tools & Resources
SIU Digital Library, JSTOR, Manupatra, SCC Online, SPSS/R for statistical analysis
Career Connection
Ensures a sound, ethical, and academically rigorous approach to their dissertation, fundamental for credibility in academia and legal research.
Deep Dive into Specialization Literature- (Coursework Semester (typically Semester 1))
Even during coursework, begin an exhaustive review of seminal and contemporary literature in Information Technology Law and Intellectual Property Law. Identify key scholars, landmark judgments (Indian and international), and emerging debates. Use legal databases to map the current state of knowledge and pinpoint potential research gaps within the Indian legal landscape.
Tools & Resources
LexisNexis, Westlaw, Manupatra, SCC Online, SSRN
Career Connection
Proactively informs the research proposal and helps in refining a novel, impactful thesis topic relevant to current legal challenges in India''''s tech and IP sectors.
Cultivate Academic Writing & Presentation Skills- (Coursework Semester (typically Semester 1))
Focus on refining academic writing for publications and effective oral presentation skills. Actively participate in seminars, workshops, and mock presentations organized by Symbiosis Law School. Seek feedback on research proposals and initial literature reviews from faculty and peers.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley/Zotero for citation management, University writing workshops
Career Connection
Develops the clarity and persuasive communication necessary for scholarly publications, conference presentations, and the final viva-voce, enhancing visibility as an expert.
Intermediate Stage
Formulate a Robust Research Design- (Year 1-2 (Post-coursework, pre-synopsis))
Work closely with the Research Advisory Committee (RAC) to develop a precise and original research problem within Information Technology and Intellectual Property. Translate the identified research gap into clear objectives, hypotheses, and a detailed methodology. Regularly schedule meetings with the supervisor to discuss progress, challenges, and refine the theoretical framework.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, RAC meetings, Research proposal templates
Career Connection
Ensures the research remains on track, aligns with academic standards, and produces meaningful contributions to the field of IT and IP law.
Engage with Specialised Conferences & Workshops- (Year 2-3 (Synopsis and early thesis writing))
Attend and ideally present initial findings or concept papers at national and international conferences focused on IT Law, Cyber Law, and IP Law. This helps in gaining critical feedback, networking with experts, and staying abreast of the latest developments and policy discussions in their specialized field.
Tools & Resources
Conference databases (e.g., AllConferences.com), Professional associations (e.g., Intellectual Property Attorneys Association), Travel grants from SIU
Career Connection
Boosts the visibility and impact of their research, leading to collaborations, citations, and recognition within the global legal community.
Seek Publication Opportunities (Early Research)- (Year 2-3 (Synopsis and early thesis writing))
Aim to publish review articles, book chapters, or initial research findings in peer-reviewed journals during this phase. Focus on journals specializing in Law and Technology or Intellectual Property Law. This not only builds the researcher''''s CV but also validates initial findings, allowing for refinement before the final thesis submission.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE List Journals, SCOPUS/Web of Science indexed journals, SSRN for pre-prints
Career Connection
Establishes a publication record essential for academic career progression and demonstrates the ability to disseminate scholarly work effectively.
Advanced Stage
Maintain Consistent Thesis Writing & Data Analysis- (Year 3 onwards (Thesis writing))
Establish a disciplined writing routine for the thesis, breaking down the large task into manageable chapters. For empirical research, dedicate time to data analysis using appropriate software. Regular check-ins with the RAC are crucial to ensure consistency, address methodological issues, and maintain momentum towards completion.
Tools & Resources
Word processors (MS Word, LaTeX), Referencing software, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Ensures timely completion of a high-quality, coherent thesis, which is the cornerstone for receiving the doctoral degree.
Prepare for Viva-Voce & External Review- (Final year (Pre-submission and defense))
Systematically prepare for the viva-voce examination by anticipating potential questions related to the thesis''''s methodology, findings, and contributions. Engage in mock viva sessions with faculty members or senior researchers. Refine presentation skills and articulate the originality and significance of the research.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, Faculty mentorship, Previous viva experiences shared by peers
Career Connection
Builds confidence and ensures a strong defense of the doctoral work, a critical step towards degree conferment and establishing academic authority.
Plan Post-Doctoral Research & Career Trajectory- (Final year and post-submission)
While finalizing the thesis, begin exploring post-doctoral research opportunities, academic positions, or specialized roles in legal policy/consultancy in India or globally. Leverage the network built during the Ph.D. program and seek guidance from mentors and career services.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., HigherEdJobs), SIU Career Services
Career Connection
Ensures a smooth transition into their chosen career path, capitalizing on their expertise in Information Technology and Intellectual Property Law and contributing to the legal fraternity.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in Law (LL.M.) with at least 55% marks or equivalent grade (50% for SC/ST category) from a recognized university.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (Full-time), Minimum 4 years (Part-time)
Credits: Minimum 8 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 801L | Research Methodology | Core | 2 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation of Data, Report Writing |
| 802L | Computer Applications / Quantitative Methods | Core | 2 | Introduction to Computers, Word Processing and Spreadsheets, Presentation Tools, Internet and Web Resources, Statistical Software for Research |
| 803L | Review of Literature & Research Design | Core | 2 | Identifying Research Problem, Developing Research Questions/Hypotheses, Conceptual Framework, Literature Review Techniques, Research Ethics |
| 804L | Pedagogy and Legal Research | Core | 2 | Legal Pedagogy, Teaching and Learning Methods in Law, Curriculum Development, Legal Research Skills, Access to Legal Information |
