WISE-SCOPE Fellowship (Women in Science and Engineering)

The WISE-SCOPE Fellowship (Women in Science and Engineering – Societal Challenges with Opportunities) Fellowship is an initiative by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, aimed at empowering women scientists and technologists. This fellowship provides an opportunity for Ph.D. holders in Basic and Applied Sciences to use their expertise in solving real-world societal challenges through science and technology interventions.


Objective of the Fellowship

The WISE-SCOPE Fellowship seeks to address societal challenges by funding projects that offer scientific and technological solutions to issues at the grassroots level. The program encourages the development of innovative, scalable, and transferable technologies that can contribute to:

  • Sustainable livelihoods
  • Drudgery reduction
  • Health and nutrition improvements
  • Management of natural resources
  • Climate change mitigation
  • Disaster management

Projects must be practical, impactful, and capable of real-world implementation.


Broad Thematic Areas for Project Proposals

Applicants must submit research proposals under one of the following themes:

Thematic AreaFocus Areas
Energy, Water, and Waste Management (EWWM)Clean energy solutions, waste reduction, water purification, sustainable waste disposal
Engineering and Technology Development (ETD)Innovative technologies for rural development, industrial efficiency, automation
Environment, Climate, and Sustainable Development (ECSD)Solutions for environmental conservation, pollution control, climate adaptation
Agriculture and Allied Sciences (AAS)Sustainable farming techniques, agri-tech innovations, food security
Health, Food, and Nutrition (HFN)Community healthcare solutions, nutrition improvement, disease prevention

Projects should focus on the development of viable technologies or techniques that can be scaled and transferred for real-world applications.


Eligibility Criteria

CriteriaDetails
GenderOpen to women scientists and technologists
Educational QualificationPh.D. in Basic or Applied Sciences or equivalent degrees such as MD/MS/MDS
Age LimitMinimum: 27 years; Maximum: 60 years (as of the date of submission)
NationalityMust be an Indian citizen
Research AreaProposals must align with one of the broad thematic areas listed above

Applicants should demonstrate a strong research background and a commitment to applying scientific knowledge for societal development.


Selection Process

The selection process consists of multiple stages, including:

  1. Preliminary Screening – Evaluation of eligibility criteria.
  2. Expert Review – Assessment of the applicant’s credentials, the identified societal challenge, proposed scientific methodology, and expected impact on beneficiaries.
  3. Final Selection – Based on recommendations from the Subject Expert Committees (SECs).
  4. Approval & Award Notification – Final decision communicated after administrative and financial approvals from DST.

Applications will be assessed based on their innovation, feasibility, societal impact, and scalability.


Application Process & Submission Details

Submission ModeOnline Submission Portal
How to Apply?Submit proposals through the DST e-PMS portal: Apply Here
Application DeadlineOpen throughout the year
Proposal FormatMust follow DST guidelines, including project objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and impact assessment.

Applicants must ensure they adhere to DST’s submission guidelines and provide all required supporting documents.


Why Apply for WISE-SCOPE Fellowship?

  • Provides financial support for women scientists to contribute to societal development.
  • Encourages interdisciplinary research across technology, health, environment, and agriculture.
  • Enables real-world implementation of scientific research for grassroots impact.
  • Strengthens women’s role in STEM and innovation-driven social change.

This fellowship is a unique opportunity for women scientists to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical implementation, making a tangible impact on society.

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