IIT Madras, through its Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (RBCDSAI), is inviting applications for its prestigious Post-Baccalaureate Fellowship in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science for the year 2026. The full-time research internship is aimed at exceptional graduates who wish to build a career in AI, machine learning, and data science while working alongside leading researchers. Selected candidates will receive an initial monthly stipend of Rs 50,000, which may be revised based on the fellow’s qualifications, experience, and performance. The fellowship has a tenure of two years, with continuation into the second year based on a performance review.
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Who Can Apply for IIT Madras Internship?
Candidates interested in applying for the fellowship must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Applicants should possess either a four-year bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in a discipline relevant to RBCDSAI’s research areas.
- Candidates should be below 27 years of age as on 31 March 2026.
- Selected applicants must be able to accept the offer immediately and provide a joining date within six weeks of receiving the offer letter.
- The position requires candidates to relocate to Chennai and work full-time on the IIT Madras campus.
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IIT Madras Internship Benefits
Apart from the monthly stipend, fellows receive several academic and professional benefits, including:
- Opportunity to conduct cutting-edge AI research under IIT Madras faculty.
- Guidance from renowned researchers and faculty members.
- Access to high-performance CPU and GPU computing infrastructure.
- Library privileges within IIT Madras.
- Health insurance coverage during the fellowship.
- Opportunity to collaborate with globally recognised organisations including Google, NASA, MIT, Carnegie Mellon University, Harvard University, Walmart, and several leading research institutions.
- Fully funded travel support for national conferences.
- Access to seminars, workshops, colloquia, research showcases, and networking opportunities.
- Fellows are encouraged to apply for PhD programmes during the fellowship.
Skills Candidates Will Gain
The fellowship is designed to strengthen research capabilities in artificial intelligence and data science. Fellows will have opportunities to:
- Build strong research and analytical skills.
- Work on real-world AI problems.
- Learn responsible AI practices.
- Collaborate with researchers across multiple disciplines.
- Present research findings through internal seminars and annual showcases.
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Many former fellows have gone on to pursue higher education at leading international universities or secured positions in top research laboratories and technology organisations, says the university.
Faculty Selection Process
During the application process, candidates are required to select three preferred RBCDSAI faculty members they wish to work with. Interviews are conducted based on research alignment, faculty availability, and mutual interests. Once selected, fellows also have the flexibility to collaborate with other faculty members across the centre.
Important Information on the IIT Madras Internship
Applicants should note the following before applying:
- Applications must be submitted through the official application portal.
- Candidates will generally receive an update on their application status within one month.
- Hostel accommodation is not guaranteed and is subject to availability.
- The fellowship is classified as Project Staff at IIT Madras rather than a permanent institute position.
- If a fellow leaves before completing the tenure, one month’s prior notice is required.
Career Opportunities After the Internship
According to IIT Madras, fellows regularly interact with industry leaders and researchers through conferences, workshops, and the RBCDSAI Annual Research Showcase. Outstanding research work may also lead to opportunities with participating companies and research organisations. Based on performance, faculty members may also provide Letters of Recommendation, which can strengthen applications for higher education and research positions worldwide. Candidates interested in the fellowship are advised to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines before submitting their applications. Those who wish to apply are advised to submit applications through the official Google Link provided by the university.
