About the Centre
Global Water and Climate Adaptation Centre (ABCD-Centre)
The ABCD-Centre is a DAAD-funded Global Water and Climate Adaptation Centre connecting five leading institutions: RWTH Aachen (Germany), AIT Bangkok (Thailand), IIT Madras (India), TU Dresden (Germany) and UNU Resource Nexus (Germany). The Centre's mission is to foster scientific cooperation between the Global North and South to tackle global water and climate challenges, while contributing to UN SDG-6 (Clean Water and Sanitation for All).
The Joint Doctoral Program (JDP) leverages computational AI expertise and the specialized marine and coastal engineering infrastructure of IIT Madras and RWTH Aachen University. Doctoral scholars work under the co-guidance of supervisors from both institutions to develop data-driven solutions for critical global water, climate adaptation, and coastal engineering challenges.
Key highlights of the Centre
- Three Research Clusters: 1. Water security & safe water supply 2. Ecosystem resilience & nature-based adaptation and 3. Transfer strategies & societal acceptance
- Living Lab Concept: A unique platform where real-world data meets digital modeling, enabling simulation and testing of climate adaptation strategies.
- Capacity Building: Scholarships, researcher mobility, joint supervision, and global workshops strengthen the next generation of water and climate leaders.
Research
Research Focus & Architecture
Scholars develop integrated frameworks combining machine learning, computational hydraulics, and nature-based adaptation:
- Blue-Green Infrastructure & Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) — Salt marshes, mangroves, sandy coasts, and hybrid grey-green infrastructure (detached breakwaters, seawalls).
- AI & Data Processing — Processing remote sensing, satellite, drone, and in-situ sensor data for wave forecasting, coastal morphodynamics tracking, and flood/drought risk assessment.
- Decision Support Systems — AI-driven tools for proactive coastal asset management, port/harbour protection, and climate-resilient planning.
Timeline
Mobility Architecture & Timeline
Scholars complete requirements across both partner institutions to qualify for the dual/joint doctoral degree:
| Phase / Location | Duration & Requirements |
|---|---|
| Home Institution (IIT Madras) | Core coursework, comprehensive examinations, and qualifier completion. |
| Host Institution (RWTH Aachen) | Minimum 12 months to maximum 18 months dedicated research residency. |
Funding
Financial Support & Fellowships
| Location | Financial Coverage |
|---|---|
| In India (IIT Madras) | • Regular Stipend: ₹37,000/month (Years 1–2); ₹42,000/month (Years 3–5) |
| • Supplementary HRA (as per institutional norms) | |
| In Germany (RWTH Aachen) | • ABCD Fellowship: €1,400/month (up to 12–18 months; project-based extension options) |
| • International travel grants / airfare support |
Impact
Expected Outputs & Impact
- Academic & Technological Outputs — High-impact publications in top-tier journals, open-source AI frameworks for coastal forecasting, and patentable engineering solutions.
- Human Capital & Synergies — Specialized bicultural doctoral graduates fluent in both machine learning and coastal/hydraulic physics, strengthening bilateral funding bids (e.g., IGSTC, DAAD).
- Socio-Economic Impact — Substantial cost savings by shifting from reactive coastal maintenance to AI-driven, proactive asset management for ports, harbours, and vulnerable shorelines.
Requirements
Eligibility & Profile Requirements
Submit applications to: abcd@doe.iitm.ac.in
Last Date of Submission: 4th October 2026, before 17:00 Indian Standard Time (IST)
Admissions
Application Process
Applicants must submit a single PDF to abcd@doe.iitm.ac.in including:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter (max 2 pages)
-
Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates:
- Higher Secondary School — 10th Std and 12th Std or Diploma
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree
- Qualified GATE, NET, or any other competitive examination (optional)
- Name, affiliation, and contact details of two academic references, along with a Reference Letter / Recommendation Letter
Contact / Submission Email: abcd@doe.iitm.ac.in
Note: Applicant must not already hold a doctoral degree.
Requirements
Selection Process
Written Test
A specialized written test may be conducted to evaluate core technical or foundational knowledge.
Interview
Shortlisted candidates face a two-level interview panel of the faculty committee for a technical and research-aptitude interview.
Final Selection
Based on combined performance in academic background, written tests, and personal interviews, subject to document verification.
Partner Institutions: Indian Institute of Technology Madras (India) & RWTH Aachen University (Germany) — part of the DAAD-funded ABCD-Centre, connecting RWTH Aachen, AIT Bangkok, IIT Madras, TU Dresden, and UNU-FLORES.