The journey to a PhD requires determination, dedication, discipline, and above all, a clear direction. One major concern for many aspiring full-time scholars is the lack of funding to pursue their dream PhD degree. Every industry or company allocates separate funds for R&D and has a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) budget. Interested scholars shall use this funding by submitting your proposals based on the challenges faced by the industry. I was fortunate to do my PhD research through an industry-funded project, and it positively changed my entire research career. So, in this blog, I would like to share my journey, how I got selected, how it helped me grow as a researcher, and some tips for those who wish to pursue industry-related research.
How I Got Selected for Industry-Funded PhD Research
After completing my post-graduation, I was clear about one thing – I didn’t want to do research just for the sake of getting a degree. I wanted my work to be meaningful, solve a real-time problem, and be useful to society. I started looking for funded research projects that were aligned with industrial applications, especially in the field of water and wastewater treatment systems. As I topped in my master’s degree (University first rank holder – Gold medallist), I applied for the DST-INSPIRE fellowship and got selected after six months. During those six months, I came across a research opportunity through a university-industry collaboration where a leading private construction company was funding an R&D project in partnership with my university. The topic was closely related to my area of interest, and I applied immediately. The selection was based on academic background, research interest, and an interview. Fortunately, I was selected, and that marked the beginning of my industry-funded PhD journey.
Also Read: List of Best Research Funding Agencies in India
What Made It Different from a Regular PhD?
1. Clear Problem Statement
In many regular academic PhD programs, scholars spend months (or even years) identifying a research gap or defining the exact problem to work on. But in my case, the problem was clearly defined by the industry. The industry was facing a real challenge and wanted an innovative and sustainable solution through scientific research. This saved a lot of time and gave me a strong sense of purpose right from the beginning.
2. Fixed Timeline and Structured Methodology
The project had a clear deadline – 2.5 years. So, I was able to come up with a realistic and detailed methodology and well-defined milestones. I knew exactly what I was expected to do every 3 to 6 months. From experimental design to pilot-scale reactor implementation, everything was planned. This helped me stay on track and avoid the common worry of “What if this doesn’t work?” Because the plan was based on solving a practical problem, the chances of failure were low if we followed the right methodology.
3. No Distractions or Depression
Because the timeline was tight and everything was planned, there was no room for distraction. I didn’t have the time to procrastinate or worry about whether my research was going in the right direction. Every day had a task. And though the pressure was there, it was a productive kind of stress that kept me going. I never felt lost or depressed, which is something many scholars experience when research lacks structure.
4. Supportive Manpower for Laboratory Work
Another important benefit was the availability of manpower. In an R&D project, we have provision for recruiting a field assistant for routine field sample collection, lab analysis, and maintaining records. This made it easier to manage the workload and allowed me to concentrate more on designing experiments, designing and fabrication of reactors, interpretation of results, preparing presentation slides, and writing research papers and project reports.
5. Dual Supervision from University and Industry
I was guided by both my University supervisor and the industry project head. This was a blessing. The academic guide helped me maintain scientific rigour, while the industry mentor ensured practical relevance. I had monthly review meetings where I presented my progress, and I received valuable feedback from experts on both sides. This continuous mentoring expanded my subject knowledge and helped me become more confident.
6. Improved Communication Skills
I had to present weekly updates within the project team and had monthly review meetings with the main team. This initially felt stressful, but over time, it helped me become a confident speaker. I overcame stage fright, learned how to explain technical concepts simply, and developed strong communication skills. These are now helping me in presenting at conferences and interviews.
7. Better Funding and No Financial Worries
One of the biggest advantages of industry-funded research is the availability of funds. I received a better stipend than many of my peers doing regular PhDs. Apart from that, the project had sufficient funding for lab-scale experiments, pilot-scale reactor setup, equipment, chemicals, and other resources. I didn’t have to worry about money or delay my work due to a lack of materials. This allowed me to focus completely on research.
8. Meaningful Outcome and Industrial Implementation
The best part of this journey was the outcome. My research didn’t end up as just another thesis sitting on a library shelf. The solution (Novel reactor system for the treatment of wastewater) developed was implemented in the industries of wastewater treatment plants. It gave me immense satisfaction to see my work being used in the real world. Also, since the outcome was novel, innovative, and of industrial applicability, we applied for an Indian patent, which added more value to my profile.
Tips for Scholars
If you’re planning to pursue a PhD and are passionate about solving real-world problems, I highly recommend looking for industry-funded opportunities. Here are a few tips from my experience:
- Stay updated with industry trends in your field. Industries are always looking for innovative solutions.
- Build strong academic and practical skills during your master’s. Industry projects prefer candidates who are technically sound and proactive.
- Connect with professors working on industry projects. Many university departments receive funding from industries through an MoU and may be looking for dedicated scholars.
- Candidates working in R&D funded projects as Junior Research Fellow (JRF) have the provision to use the work for their PhD degree, provided your project Investigator needs to accept it (Check your University research guidelines).
- Prepare well for the selection process. Be clear about your research interests and show how you can contribute to the project.
- Once selected, stick to the timeline, be disciplined, and stay motivated. The support and resources you get are abundant- make the best use of them.
Doing a PhD through an industry-funded project was a life-changing experience for me. It gave me clarity, confidence, skills, and a meaningful outcome. I didn’t just earn a degree became a problem solver. If you are looking for a PhD path that combines academic research with real-world relevance, consider this route. It’s challenging, but truly rewarding.
Also Read: PhD Funding Schemes in India
