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M K Bhan – Young Researcher Fellowship Programme
The M K Bhan – Young Researcher Fellowship Programme (MKB-YRFP) is a flagship initiative by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, aimed at supporting young postdoctoral researchers in pursuing independent research. This fellowship encourages young talent to conduct cutting-edge research in Indian DBT autonomous institutes, fostering the next generation of scientific leaders.
Fellowship Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | M K Bhan – Young Researcher Fellowship Programme (MKB-YRFP) |
| Eligibility | Young postdoctoral researchers in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or allied areas. |
| Number of Fellowships | 50 fellowships per year |
| Duration | 3 years (extendable by 2 years in exceptional cases). |
| Application Deadline | 16 March 2025 |
| Host Institution | DBT Autonomous Institutes only. |
| Financial Support | Includes monthly stipend, research grant, and contingency funding. |
Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian nationals only. |
| Educational Background | Ph.D. in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or allied fields. Those who have submitted their thesis are also eligible. |
| Age Limit | Upper age limit: 35 years (as of the application deadline). |
| Employment Status | Cannot hold a permanent position at any institute/university. |
| Host Institution | Applicants must identify a DBT autonomous institute and secure approval from a mentor and head of the host institute. |
| Other Restrictions | Applicants cannot take up the fellowship at the same institute where they completed their Ph.D. |
Financial Support Details
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fellowship | ₹90,000 per month. |
| Research Contingency Grant | ₹20 lakh per year for consumables, manpower, domestic travel, and minor equipment. |
| Manpower Support | Fellow can engage one manpower (e.g., JRF/SRF/Project Assistant). |
| Equipment Costs | Capital equipment (up to ₹10 lakh) to be procured in the name of the host institute. |
Application Process
- Application Submission: You must submit applications online through the Common Fellowship Portal: https://www.fellowships.gov.in.
- Important Dates:
- Start Date of Online Application: 15th January 2025
- End Date of Application: 16th March 2025 (within 60 days of advertisement).
- The DBT website (www.dbtindia.gov.in) provides detailed information on the fellowship grant, eligibility criteria, and terms & conditions of the fellowship.
- You must keep a copy of your submitted application form along with supporting documents. If DBT selects you at a later stage, you will need to submit these documents.
Selection Process
Applicants are evaluated based on academic merit, research proposal quality, and alignment with national priorities. The final selection is made after a thorough appraisal of applications.
Benefits of Fellowship
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects in India.
- Access to advanced research facilities and mentorship from leading scientists.
- Financial independence to establish an individual research program.
- Contribution to building a critical mass of trained scientists in India.
