Raebareli: India’s first AI-augmented multidisciplinary university, Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh, has taken a major step towards transforming the research education landscape of Uttar Pradesh.
In a strategic initiative to build a strong research ecosystem in the state, the university has launched its PhD programmes—an ambitious effort aimed at redefining research-driven education of the state.
CU UP aims to establish itself as a research-intensive university of Uttar Pradesh and a hub of knowledge, innovation, and research excellence. Under this initiative, the university has opened admissions for January 2026 to 21 AI-driven PhD programmes across Engineering, Computer Science, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, Data Sciences, Management, Law, and Liberal Arts.
As India’s first AI-augmented multidisciplinary university, CU UP will offer scholars a unique AI-enabled platform for future-oriented research in both full-time and part-time modes. Eligible scholars will also receive a fellowship of Rs 35,000 per month.
Chandigarh University UP will also expand field-oriented research by increasing MoUs with national and global research institutions. The university has already signed over 20 MoUs with top ranked institutions worldwide. AI-driven research labs, international collaborations, mentorship from the world’s top 2 percent scientists, opportunities for national and international journal publications, avenues for patent filing, and fully funded projects with industry and government bodies position CU UP as a premier choice for research while reducing the gap between industry and academia. Both doctoral and post-doctoral scholars will receive specialized mentorship and unlimited access to leading research databases such as IEEE, Springer, and Elsevier. Seed funding and incubation support will also be available to promote innovative ideas.
Chandigarh University has long been among India’s leading institutions in research and innovation. Its strong research legacy includes more than 21,000 Scopus-indexed publications, over 5,300 patents filed across disciplines, more than 1,72,800 Scopus citations, an impressive H-index of 115, government-funded research projects worth over Rs 90 crore, and more than 200 active departmental research groups. CU UP now brings the same research-driven culture and innovation-oriented vision to Uttar Pradesh, enabling students of the state to access world-class research opportunities.
Selection Criteria and Eligibility:
The admission process includes an online application, entrance test, interview, and research proposal evaluation. Candidates with NET/GATE/GPAT/MPhil qualifications are exempted from the entrance test. Eligibility requires 55 percent in a master’s degree or 75 percent in a four-year bachelor’s degree. CU UP also allows research scholars to choose a co-guide, including global faculty members.
PhD Entrance Test:
Applicants must qualify the Chandigarh University Research Aptitude Test (CURAT) conducted by the university or an equivalent exam conducted by central agencies such as UGC/CSIR. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by the respective Departmental Research Committee.
Focus on Research Areas Linked to National and State Development:
CU UP is prioritizing research domains that directly contribute to the development of Uttar Pradesh and the nation. The programmes aim to strengthen research in agriculture, sustainable development, healthcare, cybersecurity, data analytics, quantum computing, and machine learning—preparing scholars to develop solutions aligned with future societal needs.
High-Tech Centres of Excellence and Modern Labs:
To strengthen research infrastructure, CU UP has established advanced Centres of Excellence and modern laboratories including the Microsoft Centre of Excellence, SAS Analytics Lab, Apple Vision Pro Lab, AI-ML Research Centre, and the Quick Heal Cyber Defence Hub. These facilities will enhance scholars’ technical capabilities and accelerate patent generation and start-up development—key markers of a high-tech research university.
CU UP to Offer a Total of 68 Future-Oriented Programmes Across Six Major Streams:
For the 2026–27 academic session, CU UP will offer 40 undergraduate programmes, 16 postgraduate programmes, and 12 lateral entry programmes across Engineering, Business, Health and Life Sciences, Humanities, Liberal Arts and Legal Studies. In addition, 15 programmes will be delivered in collaboration with industry leaders such as Google, Microsoft, SAS, IBM, Rabbit AI, Quick Heal, KPMG, NSE, PwC, and Grant Thornton.
CU UP is also offering industry-collaborative programmes with 23 leading companies and has established a Corporate Advisory Board (CAB) with over 100 companies in its very first academic year.
Students to Receive Scholarships Worth Crores of Rupees:
As one of India’s top private universities, CU UP will offer scholarships worth Rs 50 crore to students in the 2026–27 academic session. This initiative will help Uttar Pradesh’s youth access AI-driven quality education and employment opportunities, enabling the state to advance in digital and technological development and strengthening India’s global presence in the AI domain. Students can apply for scholarships through CUCET portal.
Additional CV Raman Scholarship for Scientific Research:
To further promote scientific inquiry, Chandigarh University has announced an additional Rs 3 crore under the CV Raman Scholarship for the 2026–27 academic session. This will support research activities and remove financial barriers that hinder innovation and scientific progress.
Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh: The New Hub for AI, Innovation, Start-ups and Global Education:
On this occasion, Dr. Ajay Yadav, Registrar, Chandigarh University, UP/ said that following its inauguration by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, India’s first AI-augmented private university has achieved several notable milestones in its very first academic year. The institution has rapidly emerged as a leading hub of AI technology, innovation, start-ups, and global education. Industry Development Minister Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’ inaugurated the ‘Campus Tank’, India’s first university-based start-up launchpad, which has already connected more than 1,000 start-ups and facilitated funding for the top 10 ventures. CU UP also launched ‘CU AI Space’, a state-of-the-art centre dedicated to AI-based research and innovation for students, start-ups, and industry.
CU UP recently hosted the Microsoft AI Bootcamp, where Microsoft’s Lipika Sharma commended the university for becoming the country’s first AI-augmented campus. The programme, conducted in collaboration with IIT Delhi and CU-TBI, helped students acquire industry-ready AI and technology skills.
In a step towards strengthening global education, CU UP recently signed a major MoU with the University of Newcastle, Australia, enabling student exchange, joint research, and international internships.
In the field of women empowerment, Governor Anandiben Patel inaugurated ‘CUBE – CU Business & Entrepreneurship Centre’ and the ‘Naari Yojana’, providing new opportunities for women in technology, start-ups, research, and entrepreneurship in Uttar Pradesh. Collectively, these initiatives have positioned Chandigarh University Uttar Pradesh as one of the country’s fastest emerging hubs for AI, innovation, and start-up development.
CU UP has also set a new benchmark in higher education by introducing Advanced Credit Programmes, becoming the first university in Uttar Pradesh to do so. Under this initiative, students can earn globally recognised certificates and industry-ready skills even before commencing their formal degree programmes. In line with the National Education Policy, CU UP is offering all 60 high-demand courses free of cost to support the holistic development of students in Uttar Pradesh.
On this occasion, CU UP PhD Coordinator Dr. Umashankar Yadav said that the PhD programmes are designed to provide scholars with a high-quality research environment, critical thinking opportunities, and advanced academic exposure. The programmes are benchmarked against leading global standards and include rigorous coursework, research methodology training, and international collaboration opportunities. As India’s first AI-augmented university, CU Uttar Pradesh has foreign-trained post-doctoral faculty with strong research credentials in Q1/Q2 publications, funded projects, and utility patents. Scholars benefit from next-generation research facilities such as the AI/ML Lab, Microsoft Centre of Excellence, SAS Centre of Excellence, and Apple Vision Pro Lab. They also receive industry-integrated research opportunities and mentorship from national and international experts. The objective is to develop future-ready researchers capable of meaningful contributions to the global research ecosystem and impactful solutions for society and industry.
CU UP Registrar Dr. Ajay Yadav, while launching the 2026 portal, said that students can apply for scholarships through CU-CET. Admissions are granted based on performance in the Chandigarh University Common Entrance Test (CUCET). Interested candidates can apply online through the university website or contact the toll-free number for more details. The objective is to support thousands of students in achieving their academic aspirations by overcoming financial challenges and enabling the next generation to explore opportunities in AI, enhance their skills, and secure meaningful career pathways.
