The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) is a premier academic institution dedicated to the study and research of Space science and technology in India. It is located in Valiamala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and was established in 2007 to promote higher education and research in space sciences, technology, and engineering.
Academic Programmes
Undergraduate
IIST offers undergraduate programs in areas like Aerospace Engineering and Avionics. The B.Tech program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in space science and technology. Read more with link to programmes. Read More
Dual-Degree
A dual-degree program - B.Tech in Engineering Physics followed by a Masters degree in one of the following - Astronomy & Astrophysics / Atmospheric Science / Optical Engineering / Solid-state physics - is a unique program offered by IIST. Read More
Postgraduate
IIST also offers several stand-alone postgraduate programs in various specializations of space science and technology, including satellite systems, space communications, and spacecraft systems. Read More
Ph.D
IIST offers doctoral programs in fields related to space science, space technology, and engineering. Read More
Post-Doctoral Programme
IIST offers Senior Project Research Associate (SPRA) and Research Associate (RA)/ Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF) positions across a broad range of frontline research areas in Science, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Management. Read More
Research and development
The institute seamlessly integrates research and development with academics. The major theme of IIST’s research portfolio is the application of cutting - edge science to generate new technologies and applications with a focus on space research. IIST houses many state-of-the-art facilities to bolster research in frontier areas of science and technology.
IIST has also been instrumental in exploring research collaborations and exchange of scientific ideas with international academic and research organizations. This includes international collaborations, both as Memorandum-of-Understanding (MOU) at the Institute-level as well as at an individual level of faculty-to-faculty collaboration.
Research at IIST is curiosity-driven yet impact-oriented, fostering a culture of inquiry, creativity, and public service through vibrant PhD and post-doctoral programmes. In addition, many BTech and Masters students carry out their theses in the Institute helping them develop critical thinking, research skills, and innovation capacity early on.
Close association with ISRO
IIST being under Dept. of Space, Govt. of India, has a close association and collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This gives students and researchers collaborative access to the laboratories in ISRO and an opportunity to participate directly in ISRO's missions. Graduates from IIST can be absorbed by ISRO in various capacities, and the institution plays a significant role in preparing skilled personnel for India's space program.
Infrastructure
IIST is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and facilities that support space-related research, including ground stations, simulation labs, and avionics laboratories. The campus is self-sufficient and houses students with all necessary administrative facilities such as canteens and kiosks, medical facility, a bank,
Admission Process
Placements and Career Opportunities
Many of IIST’s graduates go on to work with ISRO and other space organizations. The institution has a dedicated placement cell that helps students secure internships and full-time jobs in space-related fields. IIST's affiliation with ISRO also provides its students with unique career opportunities in India's space missions.