In a bid to encourage students to take up space research, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has introduced two new programmes under its outreach programme. The Student Internship Scheme and the Student Project Trainee Scheme have been initiated with the purpose of giving hands-on experience in research and project work under the guidance of prominent scientists and engineers. These programs will help bridge the gap between book knowledge and field applications, and give students from different institutions the chance to get directly involved with experts in their field.

The schemes have been launched by ISRO’s North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) and are open to undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. students. Students who join the schemes get a chance to develop their academic and professional profiles with experience in dealing with real-world issues in space science and technology. The program supports ISRO’s overall goal of motivating young minds and building a talent pool of professionals that can help India with its space research and exploration.

Student Internships Scheme

The Student Internships Scheme is intended for students who are pursuing or have just finished their undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), or doctoral (PhD) studies. Those who have just finished their degrees, i.e., within the past six months, and want to gain extra experience in order to enhance their profiles are also eligible to apply. To make sure that students possess a good academic record, ISRO has prescribed a minimum eligibility requirement of having 60% aggregate marks or a CGPA of 6.32 on a scale of 10.

The internship scheme is designed to expose students to direct experience in research projects. Nonetheless, some prerequisites have to be fulfilled prior to the involvement of students. Students are required to present a bona fide certificate issued by their institution’s Head of Department, Principal, or Director stating that the internship forms part of the academic program. The duration of the internship is limited to a maximum of 45 days, although it may not necessarily be consecutive.

Although there are ample learning opportunities, ISRO has made it clear that interns would not be given any stipend or financial aid. Also, there will be no accommodation provided, but interns would be allowed the use of the canteen facilities of the regular employees. After finishing the internship and the submission of an assignment report, successful interns will be granted a completion certificate. However, prior clearance of NESAC needs to be obtained by the interns for publishing any work based on the internship.

Student Project Trainees Scheme

For those students looking for more prolonged research work, ISRO has proposed the Student Project Trainees Scheme, which permits students to do academic project work at NESAC. The qualifications are still the same, where the candidates should have a minimum aggregate of 60% marks or a CGPA of 6.32 on a 10-point scale. But this scheme is different based on project duration, based on the student’s qualification of education.

For Bachelor of Engineering (BE) and Bachelor of Technology (BTech), enrollment is available for students who have completed the sixth semester with a minimum duration of 45 days. Bachelor of Science (BSc) final-year students can also enroll for a project duration of 45 days. But for Master of Engineering (ME), Master of Technology (MTech), and Master of Science (MSc) students, the minimum project duration is 120 days, subject to the condition that they have already completed their first semester. PhD students who have already finished their coursework can join a research project for a minimum of 30 days.

Similar to the internship program, the project trainees are also required to furnish a bona fide certificate from their institution stating that the project is an academic curriculum. No stipend or money will be given, nor accommodation facilitated. All trainees, however, will be entitled to the canteen facilities at NESAC. Successful project completion and report submission will lead to a completion certificate, after scrutiny by the Division Heads. Further, any publication of work associated with the project has to get clearance from NESAC.

Application Process and Timelines

NESAC has prescribed certain timelines for students to apply for these programs depending on their project start dates. For projects that start in May-June, applications should be made between February 1 and March 31, 2025. Interested individuals can apply for projects to start in July-August between April 1 and May 31, 2025. Students interested in December projects should apply between September 1 and October 15, 2025. For projects to start in January, applications should be made between October 15 and November 15, 2025.

Applications will be rigorously screened, and candidates shortlisted might even have to face telephonic interviews. Yet, ISRO has asserted that submission of the online application form is not a guarantee for employment. Selection would be made purely on merit, academic performance, and aptness in pursuance of NESAC’s research objectives.

A Step Towards Nurturing Future Scientists

Through these programs, ISRO hopes to encourage innovation and research among young students, preparing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to be a part of India’s future space exploration endeavors. Through interaction with NESAC’s scientists and engineers, students will learn valuable lessons about advanced space technology and applications, laying the groundwork for a bright future in the field.

The introduction of these student programs is a testament to ISRO’s dedication to enhancing India’s scientific community and making sure that the future generation of space researchers and engineers is adequately equipped to handle new challenges. This program not only helps students but also supports India’s long-term vision of becoming a major player in the international space industry.