Research Talent Match 2026

The Premier Research & Academic Marketplace

Welcome to the Research Talent Match 2026, the premier "Research & Academic Marketplace" designed to bridge the gap between world-class research talent and the institutions that need them.

Whether you are a PhD candidate ready for a faculty or a postdoc role, or a PhD aspirant seeking the right mentor, our structured recruitment tracks provide a focused environment for high-impact professional matching.

Choose Your Track

1. Faculty Recruitment

For Post-PhDs, Final Year Scholars, and Early Career Researchers.

This specialized recruitment platform is designed to provide final-year scholars and early-career researchers with unparalleled access to the Deans and recruitment Chairs who define the future of management education.

  • Job Market Paper: Showcase your "star" research to an audience of experts and demonstrate your intellectual depth.
  • Digital Candidate Directory: Recruiters receive your credentials two weeks in advance to pre-schedule interactions.
  • Exclusive Networking: Private dinners offer a sophisticated environment to discuss your future research agenda and fit for a faculty role.

2. The PhD Gallery

For PhD Aspirants.

Secure your academic future by finding your true "research home" through direct engagement with Doctoral Chairs from world-class business schools.

  • Proposal Clinic: Have your preliminary 3-5 page research proposal reviewed by senior faculty with proven publication records.
  • "Nuance" Sessions: 15-minute "Ask Me Anything" rounds focused on SOP writing and interview expectations.
  • Research Interest Map: Present a one-page map of what you want to study and why, instead of a traditional CV.

3. Postdoc Recruitment

For Postdoctoral Candidates.

Accelerate your research trajectory by finding your ideal "research home" through direct, face-to-face engagement with Principal Investigators (PIs) from across Institutions.

  • High-Level Matchmaking: Discuss your specialized expertise and fit within active, funded research projects.
  • The Grant Wall: A comprehensive digital board showcasing live research grants alongside specific technical skills required.

4. Impact Track (Research Staff & Policy)

For Aspiring Policy Researchers and Research Assistants.

Bridge the gap between academic rigor and real-world impact by connecting with premier think tanks, NGOs, and leading policy institutions.

  • Recruiter Access: Meet a jury of recruiters from prestigious organizations looking to apply social science data to societal challenges.
  • Impact Opportunities: Connect with Principal Investigators seeking specialized research associates for immediate project roles.

Candidate Dossiers

To participate, you must prepare a specialized "Recruitment Dossier". Submission link will be available soon.

Fee Structure

For doctoral scholars, PhD aspirants, and early career researchers, participation in the Research Talent Match 2026 is complimentary once their submissions are accepted in the XLRI Doctoral Colloquium 2026.