By: IPP Bureau
Last updated : April 18, 2026 8:02 am
Postdoctoral fellowship aims to build skilled talent pool in biotechnology and life sciences
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the Ministry of Science and Technology, has announced the call for applications for its prestigious DBT-Research Associateship (DBT-RA) programme for the 2025–26 cycle.
The fellowship is designed to support young researchers in pursuing advanced research in frontier areas of biotechnology and life sciences at premier institutions and non-profit R&D organisations across India. The initiative aims to strengthen the country’s postdoctoral research ecosystem and create a robust pipeline of highly trained scientific talent.
The DBT-RA programme focuses on nurturing researchers capable of conducting globally competitive work, with an emphasis on innovation, translational outcomes, and the potential for patent generation and societal impact.
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in science or engineering, or an M.D./M.S. degree in medicine, with a strong academic background. Candidates who have submitted their thesis are also eligible, though they may receive a lower fellowship amount until completion of their degree. The upper age limit is 40 years for men and 45 years for women.
The fellowship is awarded for an initial period of two years, with annual performance-based renewal. In exceptional cases, it may be extended up to four years. Fellows are required to undertake full-time research and must relinquish any existing employment upon selection.
Applications opened on April 13, 2026, and will close on May 12, 2026.
Interested candidates must apply through the government’s fellowship portal, submitting details of their academic qualifications, research proposals, mentors, and host institutions, along with required documents and referee recommendations.