Post-Doctoral Research Program

Centre for South Asian Studies
Faculty of Arts and Humanities

The Centre for South Asian Studies (CSAS), University of the Punjab, Lahore, offers a Post-doctoral Research Program designed to promote advanced research on contemporary regional issues and strengthen researchers’ academic and professional competencies. The program provides an opportunity for post-doctoral scholars to deepen their subject expertise, enhance research skills, address knowledge gaps, and undertake innovative research in their areas of interest. It aims to promote high-quality research publications, strengthen academic profiles, and contribute to a vibrant research culture in Pakistan. The program provides a supportive research environment for scholars seeking to advance their careers in academia, research organizations, policy institutions, curriculum development, and other research-oriented fields.
AIMS & OBJECTIVES
The Post-Doctoral Research Program in South Asian Studies aims to promote advanced, high-quality research in the Social Sciences, with particular emphasis on the South Asian region. The program seeks to:
  • Provide an academic and research environment that enables postdoctoral scholars to enhance their expertise and research capabilities.
  • Promote rigorous, innovative, and impactful research addressing contemporary issues and knowledge gaps in South Asian Studies and related fields.
  • Facilitate the development and publication of high-quality research in HEC-recognized and international research journals.
  • Encourage academic and research linkages among scholars and relevant institutions to contribute to the advancement of research in Pakistan
Click here to download the admission form

Seats

 

Duration

9–12 Months

Teaching System

 

Session Begins

 

Credit Hours / Years

 

 

ELIGIBILITY AND PLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
  1. Hold a PhD degree in Social Sciences from a recognized national or international university or higher education institution. Preference will be given to the candidates with doctoral degrees in South Asian Studies, Sociology, Political Science, International Relations, Pakistan Studies, Public Policy, History, Cultural Studies, Defence and Strategic Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, or related disciplines.
  2. Government employees must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer.
  3. Candidates shall bear the applicable program/bench fee and other expenses from their own resources.
  4. Candidates are required to submit a research proposal in their area of specialization.
  5. Except for financial terms and conditions and point 14 of the letter of Syndicate, decisions of the Syndicate shall be followed and implemented accordingly.
PLACEMENT CRITERIA AND PROCEDURE
  1. Vacant positions in the Postdoctoral Research Program will be advertised by CSAS through appropriate print and/or electronic media.
  2. Interested candidates shall submit a research proposal to CSAS.
  3. The research proposal will be evaluated, and shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview to discuss their proposed research.
  4. Final selection will be based on the quality and relevance of the research proposal, the candidate’s academic and research potential, ability to complete the program, and potential contribution to the field of South Asian Studies.
  5. Selected candidates shall deposit the applicable bench fee and will be enrolled as Post-Doctoral Scholars.
  6. The program does not offer a stipend.
PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for the Post-Doctoral Certificate in South Asian Studies, each scholar must:
  1. Complete at least 120 hours of research-related engagement with the Supervisor during the program, including research activities, seminars, conferences, workshops, and other academic activities. A satisfactory completion report shall be submitted by the Supervisor.
  2. Successfully complete the approved research work to the satisfaction of the Supervisor within the stipulated period.
  3. Attend at least two national or international conferences/seminars.
  4. Publish or obtain acceptance for publication of two research papers with the Supervisor in HEC-recognized, high-ranked research journals, and preferably international impact-factor journals.
  5. Organize and supervise three seminars for MPhil and PhD students at the Centre for South Asian Studies.
PROGRAM FEE
The applicable bench fee is:
  • National Scholars: PKR 150,000
  • International Scholars: USD 1,500
  • 50% of the applicable bench fee shall be paid to the respective Supervisor.
  • Faculty members of the University of the Punjab shall be eligible for a 50% waiver of the applicable bench fee.
APPLICATION SUBMISSION
  • The application form is available at www.csas.pu.edu.pk. & PU
  • The completed application form shall be submitted in Word format via email to director.csas@pu.edu.pk.
  • Incomplete applications will not be entertained.
  • All supporting documents must be submitted as one PDF file, arranged in the prescribed order, with a maximum file size of 20 MB.
  • Applications submitted by hand will not be accepted.
  • Applications must be accompanied by proof of payment of the PKR 2,000 application processing fee (Non Refundable).
APPLICATION FEE DEPOSIT DETAILS
Account Number: 2045004002458662
Account Title: Director, Centre for South Asian Studies
Bank: National Bank of Pakistan

Centre for South Asian Studies

Arts and Humanities