Summary
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM), through its Office of Global Engagement, invites applications for the U.S.–India TRUST Fellowship 2026–2027. This prestigious international program enables outstanding Post-Doctoral researchers and early-career faculty from leading U.S. institutions to undertake 12 months of advanced research in India. The fellowship focuses on strengthening U.S.–India strategic technology collaboration in high-impact research domains such as Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Semiconductors, Biotechnology, Defense, Energy, and Space technologies.
U.S.–India TRUST Fellowship 2026 – Visiting Faculty / Post-Doctoral Opportunity at IIT Madras
Designation
- Post-Doctoral Fellow (TRUST Fellowship)
- Early-Career Visiting Faculty (Assistant Professor–equivalent track at IIT Madras)
Subject Area
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Quantum Computing
- Semiconductors & Advanced Materials
- Biotechnology & Bioengineering
- Defense Technologies
- Energy Systems
- Space Science & Engineering
Location
Indian Institute of Technology Madras, India
Eligibility / Qualification
- PhD or Post-Doctoral researchers from leading U.S. institutions
- Early-career faculty eligible for academic mobility programs
- Strong research background aligned with TRUST strategic technology areas
- Preference for candidates with:
- U.S. citizenship
- No prior long-term research experience in India
- Proposed research must directly align with program focus domains
Job Description
Selected fellows will:
- Conduct cutting-edge 12-month research at IIT Madras under faculty mentorship
- Collaborate with Indian and international researchers on strategic technology projects
- Contribute to high-impact outcomes including:
- Peer-reviewed publications
- Patents and intellectual property development
- Technology commercialization opportunities
- Participate in academic exchange programs and collaborative workshops
- (For eligible candidates) be considered for Visiting Faculty roles equivalent to Assistant Professor level
Salary / Fellowship Benefits
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship Stipend: $1,650 per month
- Visiting Faculty Consolidated Stipend: $3,650 per month (for eligible early-career faculty track)
- Contingency Research Grant: up to $2,000
- One round-trip economy airfare (U.S. residence ↔ Chennai)
- Accommodation support
- Health and medical insurance coverage
- Visa assistance and on-ground logistical support
How to Apply
Applicants must apply online via the official portal:
TRUST Fellowship IIT Madras Application
Required Documents:
- Comprehensive Academic CV (including full publication list)
- 2–3 page Research and Teaching Plan
- Host faculty consent letter (optional but recommended)
For queries:
- Email: projects@ge.iitm.ac.in
- Phone: +91-44-2257-8869
Last Date for Apply
🗓️ June 30, 2026 (11:59 PM U.S. Eastern Time)
Program Note
This fellowship is part of the U.S.–India TRUST initiative, a collaborative effort involving Indian Institute of Science, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, and the U.S. Consulate General Chennai, supported by Pratiksha Trust and Mazumdar Shaw Philanthropy.
