PhD-DRIVE

PhD-DRIVE: Information for prospective candidates

Introduction

BITS Pilani has launched an innovative PhD Program called as PhD-DRIVE (Deeptech Research, Innovation, Value generation & Entrepreneurship) that will result in creation of a startup based on research done during the PhD. This program focuses on creation of deep tech and deep science startup ventures, that will solve some of the most critical societal and business challenges. This is keeping in line with BITS Pilani’s history of introducing innovations in the higher education space over the past 60 Years, be it the Practice School concept, the first ever dual-degree programs or newer pedagogical practices.

PhD-DRIVE program will begin with a research problem in a few contemporary but futuristic domains. The core of the program will also include course work on venture creation, and mentoring by entrepreneurs and investors. Typically, such a program would see PhD completion in 3-4 years of timeframe.

Vision

BITS Pilani to be the forerunner in deep science and technology ventures by PhD scholars.

Mission

BITS Pilani shall create 100 deep-tech ventures founded/co-founded by PhD graduates by 2030.

Eligibility & Admission Criteria

Qualification	Eligibility Criteria	Admission Criteria (may include one or more of the following)
B.E./ B.Tech/ M.Sc. or Equivalent	Minimum 60% Aggregate in the most recent degree. Entrepreneurial Experience / Service or Product Development Experience / Statement of Purpose indicating Entrepreneurial Ambitions.	Written Test Personal Interview Pitch Deck presentation
M.E. / M. Tech or Equivalent

In addition, each project may have some additional criteria for shortlisting. You are required to go through the additional requirements for the project you are interested in applying. Meeting the minimum eligibility qualifications does not guarantee admission into the Ph.D. program

Intellectual Property Considerations

BITS Pilani would be the owner in any IP generated in this program. However, the IP may be released in favour of the startup founded by the Ph.D. Scholar as per IP policy of BITS Pilani. In case no venture is possible, BITS will continue to be an owner on the patent.

Fellowship and Funding

• Successful candidates will be provided with a fellowship ranging from ₹55,000 - ₹65,000 per month plus other applicable benefits depending on the qualification, year of PhD registration and performance during the program.
• An appropriate seed fund may also be granted anytime during the program period to build the prototype, as well as at the time of incubation.
• Preferential Incubation Support may be extended to the candidates in the TBIs of respective campuses against equity in case of venture creation.
• Industry and Alumni funding may be sought for this program.

Industry Partnerships

The program will have various technical and commercial partnerships, based on the domain areas. Such partnerships will be crucial for the success of this program. Such partners will provide labs for development, expert mentors, contract manufacturing etc. The Venture Capital partners may provide funding for launching and scaling up the venture.