8th cohort of NSR Pre-doc successfully concludes one-year fellowship at IIM Bengaluru
On April 27, 2026, the eighth cohort of the N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) celebrated the successful completion of their one-year fellowship at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bengaluru. This program, aimed at fostering academic excellence among candidates from historically under-represented communities in management and allied disciplines, has made significant strides since its inception.
Overview of the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship
The NSR Pre-doc Fellowship was established in 2018 to create meaningful career pathways for individuals who may not have had access to advanced academic opportunities. The program is designed to support candidates from diverse backgrounds, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue doctoral studies in various fields of management.
Details of the 8th Cohort
The 2025-26 batch of the NSR Pre-doc fellowship comprised 12 fellows, of which 10 were women and 2 were men. This cohort showcased a rich diversity of academic interests and specializations, working across eight distinct areas:
- Finance and Accounting
- Decision Sciences
- Information Systems
- Economics
- Strategy
- Marketing
- Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management (OB&HRM)
- Public Policy
Achievements of the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship
Since its launch, the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship has graduated a total of 77 fellows. Notably, over 50 of these graduates have progressed to doctoral programs in prestigious institutions both in India and abroad. This success reflects the program’s commitment to fostering academic growth and research capabilities among its participants.
Impact on Participants
The fellowship program not only provides financial support but also offers mentorship and guidance from experienced faculty members at IIM Bengaluru. This holistic approach helps fellows develop their research skills, academic writing, and critical thinking abilities, which are essential for success in doctoral studies.
Celebration of Achievements
The completion ceremony held on April 27, 2026, was a momentous occasion for the fellows, their mentors, and the IIM Bengaluru community. The event featured speeches from program coordinators and faculty, who emphasized the importance of diversity in academia and the role of the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship in promoting inclusivity.
During the ceremony, each fellow was awarded a certificate recognizing their hard work and dedication throughout the year. This acknowledgment serves as a stepping stone for their future academic endeavors.
Future Prospects for Graduates
As the fellows move forward, they are well-equipped to pursue their doctoral studies and contribute to their respective fields. The skills and knowledge gained during the fellowship will undoubtedly enhance their research capabilities and prepare them for the challenges of advanced academic work.
Many of the graduates are expected to focus on critical areas of research that address pressing issues in society, such as economic development, organizational behavior, and public policy. Their contributions will not only advance academic knowledge but also have real-world implications.
Conclusion
The NSR Pre-doc Fellowship at IIM Bengaluru exemplifies a successful model for supporting under-represented communities in academia. With its commitment to diversity and inclusion, the program has made significant strides in empowering the next generation of scholars. As the eighth cohort concludes their fellowship, they join a growing network of alumni who are poised to make impactful contributions to their fields.
Note: The NSR Pre-doc Fellowship continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of management education in India, fostering a more inclusive academic environment.
