The Rekhi Mind Lab at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi is now accepting applications for its prestigious Research Internship in Game Development under the Happiness Studies initiative. This unique opportunity is tailored for passionate game developers who aspire to create purpose-driven, emotionally impactful digital games.
As part of a pioneering project aimed at promoting mental well-being, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence through interactive experiences, selected interns will contribute to the design of innovative educational tools. In this article, we cover everything you need to know—from eligibility, application process, and stipend details to role expectations and how you can make a difference through meaningful game design.
Internship Overview
Position: Game Development Research Intern
Institution: Rekhi Mind Lab, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
Department: Happiness Studies
Mode: Likely on-site at IIT Delhi (not explicitly mentioned, but implied due to lab association)
Application Mode: Online via email
Last Date to Apply: 20 May 2025
Role and Responsibilities
Selected interns will work on the creation of immersive digital games and interactive content to promote psychological well-being, behavior change, and educational impact. This internship is part of a wider initiative to integrate happiness and emotional literacy into the academic structure of leading institutions.
Interns will be expected to:
- Design, develop, and prototype serious games using Unity, Unreal Engine, or similar platforms.
- Integrate game mechanics that align with themes of mindfulness, gratitude, and emotional intelligence.
- Collaborate with researchers and educators to translate happiness-based pedagogical concepts into engaging game content.
- Apply principles of UI/UX for diverse users, including accessibility and inclusiveness.
- Participate in user testing and refine games based on feedback and research inputs.
Required Skills and Ideal Candidate Profile
Technical Requirements:
- Strong foundation in game development using Unity, Unreal Engine, or any equivalent game framework.
- Proficiency in game physics, scripting (C#, C++, or equivalent), animation, and asset integration.
- Understanding of user-centric and accessible design principles.
Preferred Attributes:
- Prior experience in developing interactive or story-driven digital experiences.
- Familiarity with behavioral science, psychology, or educational technologies.
- Passionate about mental health, mindfulness, and social innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to students, recent graduates, or professionals with a background in Computer Science, Game Development, Human-Computer Interaction, or related disciplines.
- Applicants must demonstrate a clear interest in developing meaningful games with real-world impact.
- A portfolio or previously developed game/demo is highly encouraged.
There is no specific age, gender, or geographic restriction mentioned in the call.
Deadline and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 20 May 2025 |
| Notification of Shortlisting | End of May 2025 (Tentative) |
| Internship Start Date | June 2025 (Expected) |
Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
Stipend and Benefits
While the official notification does not mention a fixed stipend, selected interns may be eligible for:
- Stipend/Research Allowance (based on project allocation and candidate profile)
- Certificate of Internship from IIT Delhi’s Rekhi Mind Lab
- Access to IIT Delhi’s ecosystem, faculty mentorship, and participation in workshops and lab events
- Contribution to cutting-edge research in happiness science and educational game design
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit the following documents via email:
- Updated Resume highlighting relevant academic and technical experience
- Portfolio/Link to past projects (GitHub, itch.io, website, or YouTube demos)
- Cover Letter explaining interest in the role, vision for meaningful game development, and how the applicant aligns with the Mind Lab’s mission
Email ID for Submission:
mindlab.iitdelhi@gmail.com
Ensure the subject line is clear and includes your name and the role (e.g., Application: Game Development Intern – [Your Name]).
How to Fill the Application Properly
Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing a successful application:
- Resume:
- Keep it concise (1–2 pages).
- Focus on game development skills, academic projects, tools used (Unity, Unreal, etc.), and any relevant achievements.
- Mention programming languages and frameworks you are comfortable with.
- Portfolio:
- Include links to at least one playable game, prototype, or video demonstration.
- Highlight your role in each project—design, development, or testing.
- Add brief descriptions or documentation if available.
- Cover Letter:
- Keep it within 300–400 words.
- Explain your motivation to join the Happiness Studies project.
- Mention what excites you about designing games for education and social impact.
- Final Check Before Sending:
- Ensure your attachments are named properly (e.g., Resume_Name.pdf).
- Double-check grammar and formatting.
- Send your email before 20 May 2025.
Background of Rekhi Mind Lab at IIT Delhi
Launched on March 20, 2025, on the occasion of International Happiness Day, the Rekhi Mind Lab is a pioneering initiative under the Rekhi Foundation for Happiness and IIT Delhi. The lab is designed as a collaborative research space to develop tools, courses, and interventions that foster well-being among students and faculty.
The initiative builds on successful models already implemented at over 60 institutions worldwide and promotes emotional awareness, mindfulness, gratitude practices, and scientific understanding of happiness.
According to Prof. Jyoti Kumar, Head of the Department of Design at IIT Delhi, “Mind Lab will be a transformative platform integrating happiness science with cutting-edge educational practices.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is this a paid internship?
Stipend details are not explicitly mentioned but may be provided depending on the candidate’s profile and project involvement.
Q2: Can non-IIT students apply?
Yes, the opportunity is open to all eligible candidates who meet the skills and passion requirements.
Q3: Is remote work allowed?
There is no mention of remote work. Given the nature of the lab, on-site work is likely preferred.
Q4: What is the selection process?
Shortlisting will be based on resume, portfolio, and cover letter. Interviews may be conducted if required.
