Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology Fellowship: How to Apply, Eligibility Criteria

The Government of India supports deserving candidates by offering many fellowships and scholarship programs to support young and bright students in the field of biology. The Government of India has introduced a fellowship program by the Rajiv Gandhi Center under the Department of Biotechnology. It is one of the opportunities for students to be involved in an ICMR-funded research project.

This program is used to provide financial benefits and research opportunities in the field of life sciences and biotechnology. It provides an opportunity for young scholars to work on many research projects without any financial pressure.

This article will provide detailed information about this scholarship’s primary objective, eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process. If you are interested in this fellowship program and want to benefit from this opportunity, then this is the right place for you. You can understand the scheme by reading this entire article. Make sure you don’t miss any important points.

Importance Of Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology Fellowship

The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) is inviting applications for the designation of Junior Research Fellow (JRF) under an ICMR-funded research project. The project is titled “Nobel derivative of tacrine, a cholinesterase inhibitor, with added pharmacological actions.

The time duration of this program is 6 months, but can be extended depending upon the candidate’s situation, candidate progress, and academic performance in a research project. A selected candidate had an opportunity to work on impactful scientific research. If you are interested in this fellowship program, apply before the deadline of 10th August 2023. Your application will be refused if you apply after the deadline. It is important to note that all your documents must be submitted on time.

About for Fellowship

The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) is a research institute located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It works under the Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Biology by the Government of India. This center was inaugurated by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on 18th November 2002, a former President of India. It provides a dynamic learning environment for PhD scholars and scientific trainers that has a huge impact on the scientific society.

The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) also has a genetic fingerprinting facility for forensic and criminal investigations, and provides services for detailed analysis of DNA. This is not only a vital contributor in scientific research but also in legal justice and public safety. It is a major provider of lab equipment and infrastructure support to various research organizations. It creates a broader scientific community through a collaborative and service-driven approach across the country. Recently, it consists of 25 scientists,120 PhD scholars, and 100 research staff making socially impactful research in the life sciences.

Eligibility Criteria

You must have a master’s degree in life sciences,i.e., Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or any related field.
Applicants must secure 60% in their master’s degree.
For Junior Research Fellowships, you must have a valid CSIR-NE, UGC-NET, GATE, ICMR-JRF, or DBT-JRF qualification.
For higher-level positions, i.e., Research Associate or Project Scientist, you must have a Ph.D. degree in a relevant field with prior research experience.
Relevant experience in molecular biology, lab techniques, and stem cell culturing is preferred.
The maximum age limit must be 28 years for r junior research fellow. For higher positions, it will be 35 years, depending on the project. Relaxation of age will be given to disabled candidates as per government norms.
Candidate must be an Indian citizen

Benefits Of the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology Fellowship

The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology has launched this fellowship scheme to support young scholars in the field of biotechnology. Applications are invited from those candidates who want to pursue their career in research, development, and hands-on experience at RGCB. It is a real opportunity to work in a real lab along with experienced researchers. This fellowship offers financial benefits.

A monthly stipend of 31,000 rupees will be given to Junior Research Fellows.
NET or GATE qualifications, depending upon their category, may also be eligible to apply for a monthly stipend 1of 2,000 rupees.
With the help of this program, a student must be independent in their research.

Important Dates

Starting date: from July 2025

Deadline: Aug,10th, 2025

Fellowship Emoluments

If you have an M.Sc. degree and have qualified for NET or GATE with a valid certificate, you’ll receive a monthly stipend of ₹31,000 plus 16% House Rent Allowance (HRA).
If you haven’t qualified for NET or GATE, you’ll still be eligible for a stipend of ₹12,000 plus 16% HRA per month.

Selection Process

The application process is online only.

If you are currently working in a government organization, then please send your application through the proper channel.
In case you are applying for more than one position, you have to submit a separate application for each.

Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology Fellowship Apply Online

Go to the official website of the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology https://www.rgcb.res.in/

Now, click on the “Careers” section.

A new page will open here. Click on “Apply Online.”

Fill in the registration details and click “Register.”

Fill in all the required information carefully.

Upload all the necessary documents.

Click on “Submit” to complete your application.

FAQS

What is the RGCB Fellowship?
A post-doctoral training program in advanced biotechnology research at RGCB, Thiruvananthapuram.
Who can apply?
Ph.D. holders in life sciences or related fields, with a strong research record.
What is the selection process?
Submit a concept proposal and references, then present to a selection committee.
What is the stipend?
Varies based on experience (decided by committee) or as per funding agency norms.
Is there a skill development program?
Yes, a 6-month molecular diagnostics and NGS training course (₹60,000 fee).
Are there project positions?
Yes, fixed-term roles like Project Associate and Project Fellow are advertised regularly.
What is the last date to apply?
Deadline: Aug 10th, 2025