CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre, Chennai, was established in 1965 under the CSIR. It is a premier national laboratory dedicated to advanced research in structural engineering. Renowned for its ISO 9001 certification, SERC focuses on structural analysis, design, testing, and developing innovative materials and sustainable structures. The institute collaborates with industry and academia, providing consultancy, technology transfer, and training services. SERC offers postgraduate (M.Tech in Renewable Energy) and doctoral (Ph.D.) programmes, with admissions based on national-level entrance exams like GATE/NET. The centre has state-of-the-art laboratories and has contributed extensively to national infrastructure projects, disaster mitigation, and computational mechanics. SERC also runs skill development and internship programmes, supporting the nation’s scientific and technical workforce. Its multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers ensures SERC’s continued leadership in structural engineering research in India and internationally.
SERC Chennai Highlights 2025
SERC Chennai Courses 2025
SERC Chennai offers M.Tech in Renewable Energy (2 years, full-time) and Ph.D in Renewable Energy. M.Tech eligibility: Bachelor’s in Engineering/Science with 55% and a valid GATE/NET score. Ph.D eligibility: Postgraduate in a relevant discipline with 50% and a national-level fellowship. Admissions are entrance-based. Certificate and skill development courses are also available. Fees for M.Tech and Ph.D are nominal, as per CSIR norms, with scholarships and stipends for eligible candidates. Apprenticeships and internships are offered with stipends, supporting hands-on research and industry exposure.
SERC Chennai Admission 2025
Admission to SERC Chennai’s postgraduate and doctoral programmes is highly competitive and entrance-based. For M.Tech (Renewable Energy), candidates must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree with at least 55% marks and a valid GATE or NET score. A Ph.D requires a postgraduate degree in a related field with a minimum of 50% marks and a national-level fellowship such as NET JRF. The selection process includes shortlisting based on entrance scores, interviews, and document verification. The application is typically offline, with forms available at the institute or downloadable from the official website. SERC also conducts walk-in interviews for apprenticeships and project associate roles, where eligibility is based on relevant technical qualifications. The institute provides stipends or scholarships for eligible candidates and encourages applications from candidates across India. Detailed notifications and deadlines are published on the official SERC website each year.
How to Apply?
- Download the application form from the official website of SERC
- Fill in personal and academic details accurately
- Attach the required documents and photographs
- Pay the application fee via the prescribed mode
- Submit the form at the SERC Chennai office
- Await interview/admission notification
SERC Chennai Placement 2025
SERC Chennai does not offer direct placement services, but its graduates and research fellows are highly sought after in academia, R&D organisations, and industry. Most Ph.D and M.Tech graduates secure positions as lecturers, assistant professors, or research scientists in reputed institutions or join structural engineering consultancies and government agencies. The institute’s strong industry linkages and advanced research projects enhance career prospects for all trainees.
- Top recruiters: R&D organisations, universities, engineering consultancies
- Typical roles: Lecturer, Research Scientist, Project Associate
- Average Package: INR 8-10 LPA
- Highest Package: INR 16 LPA
SERC Chennai Campus Facilities 2025
SERC Chennai provides a research-focused campus with modern laboratories, advanced computing, and comfortable accommodation, supporting academic and practical learning.
- Advanced structural testing and analysis laboratories
- Central library with scientific journals and e-resources
- Seminar halls for conferences and workshops
- Computing facilities with high-speed internet access
- Hostel accommodation for students and researchers
- Guest house for visiting scientists and faculty
- Cafeteria serving hygienic meals and refreshments
- Medical room with first-aid and emergency care
- Sports and recreation areas for relaxation
- Secure campus with 24/7 security and surveillance
SERC Chennai FAQs
What are the campus facilities?
Facilities include advanced labs, a library, hostels, a guest house, seminar halls, a cafeteria, medical care, and sports amenities.
Which courses are offered at SERC Chennai?
SERC offers M.Tech and PhD programmes in Renewable Energy, apprenticeships, internships, and skill development courses.
What is the eligibility for M.Tech admission?
A bachelor’s degree in engineering or science with at least 55% marks and a valid GATE/NET score is required for M.Tech.
How can I apply for a PhD at SERC?
Download the application form from the website, fill it out, attach documents, and submit it to the SERC office.
Does SERC provide placement assistance?
SERC does not offer direct placement, but top R&D organisations, universities, and industry recruit graduates.
Are internships available at SERC Chennai?
SERC offers summer internships for meritorious engineering students, providing hands-on research and a certificate.
What is the stipend for apprenticeships?
Apprentices receive stipends ranging from INR 10,500 to INR 37,000 monthly, depending on the post and qualifications.
How do I reach SERC Chennai?
The campus is 12 km from Egmore railway station, 15 km from Chennai airport, and 3 km from the nearest bus stand.
Who can apply for apprenticeships at SERC?
ITI, Diploma, Graduate, and B.E/B.Tech holders in relevant fields can apply for apprenticeships via walk-in interviews.
What is SERC Chennai's official website?
The official website is www.serc.res.in, where all course, admission, and recruitment details are available.