DR. SOURAV KUMAR
Assistant Professor of Political Science
Dr. Sourav Kumar is an academic and early-career researcher, currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) in Patiala, Punjab. His journey in academia is marked by a deep commitment to understanding the intricacies of political science and international relations, an area in which he holds a PhD from Panjab University, Chandigarh. His doctoral research was supported by the prestigious Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), awarded by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in 2019, later elevated to a Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) in 2021. This fellowship not only recognises his academic excellence but has also enabled him to focus on in-depth research, leading to substantial contributions in his field.
Dr. Kumar’s career is characterised by his versatility as an educator. With over four and a half years of teaching experience, he has designed and taught a broad range of courses spanning political science, international relations, and law. His work with undergraduate, graduate, and pre-PhD students reflects his dedication to nurturing critical thinking and deep understanding in young minds. At RGNUL, he has taught diverse subjects, including Comparative Public Administration, India's Foreign Policy, and Non-Western Political Thought, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of both Indian and global political landscapes. His time at GITAM University and Panjab University also saw him teaching key courses in international relations and political theory, further broadening his academic portfolio.
What makes Dr. Kumar’s teaching philosophy stand out is his belief in the interactive nature of education. He sees teaching as a dialogue, where communication is key to building meaningful connections between students and educators. His compassionate approach aims to create an enriching learning environment where students are encouraged to engage critically with the material, preparing them not just for exams, but also for real-world analytical challenges.
Dr. Kumar’s research interests focus on a range of critical issues, including border conflicts, migration studies, India’s foreign policy, and the role of soft power in international relations. His research has led him to explore India’s soft power influence in Africa, where he conducted extensive fieldwork in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa. These international research trips, supported by grants from the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) and other prestigious institutions, have enriched his understanding of global diplomacy and international relations.
In addition to his teaching and research, Dr. Kumar is an active participant in international academic forums. He has presented papers at major conferences across the globe, including in France, Spain, Japan, and Qatar. His work on topics like sustainable development, soft power, and migration has been well-received by the academic community, leading to multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes.
Looking ahead, Dr. Kumar’s professional goals include furthering his research and expanding his publication record in international journals. He also aspires to engage in post-doctoral research at globally renowned institutions. Ultimately, he envisions contributing to the academic landscape of India by affiliating with a leading higher education institution, where he can continue his work in teaching, research, and thought leadership.
Dr. Sourav Kumar’s dedication to both his students and his field exemplifies his commitment to advancing the study of political science, both within India and on the global stage. His career thus far has been marked by a balance of rigorous academic research, impactful teaching, and an enduring curiosity about the complex political forces shaping our world.