DAAD Scholarship Recipient, Subhadip Saha, Shares the Story of How He Applied for the Fully Funded Award to Pursue His Doctoral Research in Germany

I am Subhadip Saha, a doctoral fellow at the Department of Physics in the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. I have been working in the field of radio detection of cosmic rays and am currently a DAAD researcher at the Institut für Astroteilchenphysik (IAP), Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT). During my master's, I had a few projects on the topic, which has kindled a profound interest in exploring the field. That is how I decided to carry forward my doctoral research in this field.

DAAD Scholarship Details

I received the esteemed DAAD Scholarship and was selected for the Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degree. The scholarship provides a year-long fellowship of 1300 Euros, a research allowance of 460 Euros, and a travel allowance of 1425 Euros to carry forward scientific exploration at German universities and research institutes. The tenure of the scholarship can be extended to 24 months at most.

Educational Background

I have completed my B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics, with First Class (61.25 %), from the University of Calcutta in 2018, where I was enrolled at the St. Paul’s Cathedral Mission College, Kolkata. I completed my M.Sc. in Physics in 2021 from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur with a CPI of 8.1. I joined the doctoral program at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur in 2021 and received Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF) in 2022, which was continued till 2024. Currently, I am a doctoral student at the Department of Physics, IIT Kanpur, and a guest researcher at the Institut für Astroteilchenphysik (IAP), Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT).

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Karlsruhe Institute of Technology?

Well, I had a previous connection with Dr. Tim Huege at KIT. I have been to KIT in 2022 for a 3-month-long research stay, where I started working on the beam-forming-related stuff. I just extended the existing acquaintance through the DAAD scholarship.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the DAAD Scholarship?

Well, we (my Indian guide & my German supervisor) first discussed a tentative plan for the research stay, which could directly be a part of my doctoral thesis. With clear intentions, we came up with a sound proposal that had (has) great scientific relevance and proceeded forward with the application. A coherent “Statement of Purpose”/”Letter of Motivation”/”Cover Letter” and an eye-catching “CV”/”Resume” are the key to success in the initial round of selection. However, the interview is all about explaining and presenting the scientific significance of the project you have submitted. You have to emphasize the scientific pertinence, relevance of the outcome of the proposed project, and how it will play a major part in your doctoral thesis and future.

How is (was) Your Experience at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology?

In one word, exceptional. Warm and supportive environment and people., collaborative work culture, premier research institute, international recognition, work-life balance, supportive to international students, and a lot more.

How Do You Rate Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Academically and Why? 

KIT is exceptional. It is a premier institute in Germany that stands among the globally top research institutes. In my field of research, i.e., cosmic ray astronomy, it is probably the pioneer of several groundbreaking experiments and currently one of the best in terms of active research, facilities, and faculties.

How Does Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Support International Students? 

Well, throughout my research stay at KIT, I have received a warm, welcoming support, such as technical, administrative, and financial support, from the IAP Department, International Students Office (IstO), and KIT (in general).

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German?

Research is primarily conducted in English. DAAD has also supported a German course for all its fellows.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing German?

It may depend on their degree course. I believe Master's is taught in English, and research is conducted in English.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

The authenticity and scientific impact/relevance of my proposal have certainly stood out. Also, other important aspects of my application were a strong recommendation from my Indian supervisor, a sound letter of motivation & CV.

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

Nothing different.

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

Prepare a sounding proposal which would be pertinent and significantly contribute to your PhD thesis (in your Home country). Scientific relevance of the tentative outcome of your proposed project is one of the most important parts.