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Update : We received 4,125 applications and shortlisted a small group of candidates for further evaluation. If you didn't receive any mail yet, unfortunately, your application was not been shortlisted. We will keep posting other opportunities as and when they come up.

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IIT Madras - Research Exploration Program - at ASTRA Lab, CSE, IIT Madras (Remote, 4 Weeks)

Work on structured research problems designed with faculty from IIT Madras.

10 positions.

What this is

A short, intensive research fellowship designed for students who want to experience research
You’ll work on a guided problem under IIT Madras faculty, explore papers, build a structured understanding, and present your findings.
This work associated with research being done at ASTRA Lab, CSE, IIT Madras
It will also provide access to other opportunities at IITM.

Domains

Algorithms
Data Science
ML & AI
Cryptography
Systems Design

Who should apply

Students curious about research (any year)
Strong problem-solvers
Considering MS / PhD / deep-tech roles

What you’ll do

Week 1 - Foundations : Research methods + domain introduction, Problem statement assigned, Learn how to read and break down research papers
Week 2–3 - Exploration : Guided literature review, Small experiments / structured analysis, Iteration with feedback
Week 4 - Output : Final research summary, Presentation to faculty / TA, Evaluation and feedback

Top performers may be considered for Letters of Recommendation (LORs) and possibility to do further project work.

Selection Process

Stage 1: Application + online assessment : Research ethics, Computer Science & Engineering, Data Science
Stage 2: (problem-solving / analysis) : Small problem solving task to do

Timeline

Application deadline: By 30 May, 2026
Stage 1 : By 31 May, 2026 (assessments to be given on this platform itself. Applicants with top percentiles will be shortlisted.)
Stage 2 : By 31 May or 1 June, 2026
Program starts : 1 - 3 June, 2026

Apply Now

If you’ve been curious about research but didn’t know where to start - this is your entry point.

Suggested Assessments