Project PhD position
I currently have an opening for a project-based PhD position funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation(ANRF) for three years, with additional support from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) for two years. The selected candidate will enrol in the PhD program at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), with a full five-year fellowship (JRF followed by SRF), subject to fulfilling the institute’s admission requirements.
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PhD Project Title: Unveiling the Horizon - Probing Gravity and Quantum Effects through Black Hole Shadows
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PhD Project Description:
We are living in a remarkable era where high-resolution observations, particularly from the Event Horizon Telescope, allow us to probe black holes and test gravity in unprecedented ways. Black hole shadows provide a direct window into near-horizon spacetime geometry and offer a powerful tool for testing general relativity and its possible extensions.
This project aims to develop a robust theoretical framework to analyse shadow features such as shape, size, and substructure, with the goal of distinguishing between classical, quantum, and environmental effects. The work will include studying deviations from the Kerr geometry, including modified gravity models and exotic compact objects, as well as realistic astrophysical influences such as accretion flows and dark matter halos.
A particular emphasis will be on non-integrable spacetimes, where complex photon dynamics and chaotic behaviour can lead to rich and potentially observable shadow signatures. The project will combine analytical methods with ray-tracing simulations to generate precise predictions relevant for current and next-generation observations.
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Application Process: Same as the IIA-PU PhD application process.
Interested candidates are required to apply through the IIA–Pondicherry University (IIA-PU) PhD admission process and indicate their interest in this project within their application.
https://www.iiap.res.in/phd_2026/
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Deadline: May 05, 2026.
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ANRF ARG Postdoctoral Position
I have an opening for a postdoctoral position funded by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) for a duration of two years. The position is part of a project on black hole shadows and related aspects of strong-field gravity. Applications are expected to open in May 2026.
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The project focuses on developing theoretical frameworks to study shadow features and their implications for testing gravity, including deviations from the Kerr geometry, ultra-compact objects, and environmental effects. The work will involve analytical methods and ray-tracing techniques, with connections to current and future observations such as those by the Event Horizon Telescope.
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Candidates should have a strong and independent research background in general relativity and black hole physics, with demonstrated expertise in relevant areas. Prior experience in black hole shadows, gravitational lensing, or related analytical and numerical techniques is expected. Exceptional candidates working in closely related areas may also be considered.
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Application Process:
Further details and application instructions will be announced once the call opens.
Institute post-doctoral position
The Indian Institute of Astrophysics offers a structured postdoctoral fellowship program. Interested candidates are encouraged to consult the official details here:
https://www.iiap.res.in/opportunities/pdf/
Applicants are required to apply through the institute’s official process and identify a potential faculty mentor as part of their application. Candidates interested in working with me are encouraged to contact me in advance to discuss their research plans before indicating my name as a potential mentor in the application.
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At present, I am particularly interested in candidates working in areas such as gravitational waves and black hole shadows, especially projects with connections to observational efforts or data from current and upcoming facilities such as the LIGO Scientific Collaboration, Virgo Collaboration, and the Event Horizon Telescope. Prior research experience in one or more of these directions will be beneficial, although exceptional candidates working in related areas may also be considered.
Externally Funded Postdoctoral Fellows
Candidates applying for external fellowships (such as National PDFs, INSPIRE Fellowships, or other government-funded programs) in the research area of gravity, and seeking host institution support from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), are encouraged to contact me in advance to discuss possible research directions.
Short term research project (in-person)
Students interested in working on research projects in gravity and black hole physics are welcome to get in touch regarding the possibility of joining my research group at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) as visiting interns. The projects typically involve a commitment of at least six months, which is necessary to engage meaningfully with the research problems.
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These projects require a solid background in general relativity and tensor calculus. It is therefore expected that you have completed at least one formal course in general relativity at the undergraduate or master’s level.
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More information about the visiting student program at IIA can be found here: https://www.iiap.res.in/opportunities/visiting-students/internships/
Since positions are offered on a rolling basis and do not follow a fixed application cycle, you are welcome to write to me to enquire about current availability.
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Note: Due to current commitments and the large number of requests I receive, I may not be able to respond to all enquiries. Priority is generally given to students interested in pursuing their Master’s thesis at IIA.
