Indian Architecture Graduate Wins DAAD KOSPIE Scholarship for Research in Transport Modelling at TU Dresden

Hello!

I’m Sakshi Charde, originally from Nagpur, India, and currently working as a Research Assistant and PhD Scholar at the Chair of Traffic Modelling and Simulation, TU Dresden, Germany.

My academic journey started in Architecture at the School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi. After working for two years as an architect, I realized my curiosity and passion leaned more towards solving real-world transport problems. This led me to switch fields and pursue a Master’s in Transport Infrastructure Systems at IIT Roorkee.

During my Master's, I had the privilege of being awarded the DAAD KOSPIE Scholarship, which supported my exchange semester at TU Dresden.
This scholarship has been a turning point in my career; it opened doors to international research, a global network, and personal growth beyond measure.

DAAD KOSPIE Scholarship Details

During my Master’s, I received the DAAD KOSPIE Scholarship (German Academic Exchange Service), which supported my exchange semester at TU Dresden, Germany, one of the prestigious TU9 technical universities in Germany, under the guidance of Prof. S. Travis Waller. This 7-month scholarship allows selected Indian master's students to undertake project work as part of their thesis under the supervision of a German professor. The scholarship benefits include:

• Monthly stipend of ~€950
• Health insurance coverage
• Travel allowance of €1,200
• Research grant of €266
• Rent subsidy
• One-month German language course
• Intercultural training

This financial and academic support was pivotal in enabling my research and transition into a research position at TU Dresden.

This scholarship not only covered my academic semester but also opened the door to long-term collaboration, ultimately leading to a full-time research position.

Educational Background

I completed my Bachelor of Architecture with a score of 68%. While I enjoyed the problem-solving aspect of design, I felt a disconnect between my technical strengths and day-to-day architectural work.

Switching to the field of transport gave me a platform to apply analytical skills, explore sustainable mobility solutions, and dive deeper into topics I genuinely cared about.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to TU Dresden?

The KOSPIE scholarship required a minimum CGPA of 8.5 at the time of application. At the end of my second semester at IIT Roorkee, I had achieved a CGPA of 9.474, which made me eligible to apply. Having a clear academic vision and consistently working toward it helped me meet the requirements with confidence.

Since my scholarship was part of an academic exchange between two institutions, I did not need standardized test scores like the GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS. I found most of the relevant information about the KOSPIE scholarship through my department and the DAAD India website, as well as from academic peers who had previously received the award.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the DAAD KOSPIE Scholarship?

My Indian thesis supervisor reached out to Prof. S Travis Waller, who is well established and has similar interests as my thesis topic – Deployment and Planning of Electric Vehicles Charging Stations, to co-supervise me for my Master’s thesis.

I submitted:

• A strong and concise thesis proposal (including Abstract, Aim, Objectives, Methodology, Expected Outcomes, and Timeline)
• A well-structured CV
• Academic transcripts
• A motivation letter explaining my research goals and why TU Dresden was the right place for me

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

• • I had a CGPA of 9.474 at the time of application.
  • My thesis on Electric Vehicle Charging Station Planning aligned closely with Prof. S. Travis Waller’s expertise, which helped build an academic bridge between IIT Roorkee and TU Dresden.
  • A clear and well-structured thesis proposal and a strong CV helped my application stand out.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Looking back, I would definitely start the process of finding a German supervisor earlier, especially from one of the TU9 universities.

When your research topic is narrow or specialized, finding a matching supervisor can be challenging. Early communication and research into the right labs or professors are crucial. I would also highlight the value of peer networking, which played a significant role in how I navigated the process.

Another key lesson: don’t let self-doubt stop you. The biggest barrier is often internal. Even when the odds seem uncertain, it's worth taking the leap—you might just land in an opportunity that transforms your career.

Today, I continue to work at TU Dresden alongside an inspiring team, contributing to publications and collaborating with leading industry partners like NVIDIA. Sometimes, a simple act of reaching out or applying can lead to life-changing opportunities. I encourage future applicants to believe in themselves, focus on presenting their unique strengths, and not fear uncertain outcomes.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Apply. Take the chance. Let it shape your future.

Being supported by one of the world’s largest international academic cooperation organisations is both a privilege and a platform for growth. In addition to scholarships, what really strengthens an application is clarity of purpose. Understand:

• Why are you pursuing a particular field
• What specific problem or area does your research address
• What outcomes do you aim to achieve

Receiving the DAAD KOSPIE scholarship was truly transformative. It allowed me to:

• Conduct research at one of the best European transport modelling chairs
• Extend my academic network and build lasting collaborations
• Secure a research assistant position under a globally recognized professor
• Travel across eight Schengen countries, gaining international exposure
• Contribute to academic publications and collaborate with industry partners like NVIDIA

To anyone considering applying for a similar opportunity, go for it. It can redefine your career path, expand your world view, and build a bridge between your academic passions and professional goals.