The Ministry of Science and Technology has introduced a special program called the MK Bhan Fellowship under the Department of Biotechnology.
The main goal is to encourage these bright individuals so that they can continue their research work within India without going anywhere. Selected student will receive funding to continue their research. What’s unique about this program is that it allows young scientists to work on important research topics that matter to our country. If you’re interested, then you can visit the official website for more details and to apply.
In this article, we will talk about all the important details you need to know about the MK Bhan Fellowship program.
Motive of the MK Bhan Fellowship
The main purpose of the MK Bhan Fellowship program is to provide research scholarships to young post-doctoral fellows. This program increases the capabilities of young researchers. The program’s main focus will be on enabling young researchers to pursue their research interests within the country and also develop a critical mass of trained scientists for the country’s research institutions, universities, and major new initiatives. The program will encourage these young and bright researchers to carry out their research within the country.
Eligibility Criteria
- You should have a Ph.D. degree in any area of Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or related fields.
- You should be below 35 years of age at the time of application.
- You must be a young post-doctoral researcher who is passionate about continuing independent research in India.
- You must have a strong research proposal focused on areas of national relevance.
- You should not be permanently employed at any university or organization at the time of applying.
- You must be an Indian citizen.
- You cannot hold another fellowship at the same time.
- If you’ve submitted your Ph.D. thesis and are waiting for the degree, you can still apply, but you’ll only get the fellowship after your Ph.D. is officially awarded.
- You cannot choose the same institute where you did your Ph.D.
Fellowship Stipend
- You will get a monthly fellowship amount of ₹75,000 so that student can focus on their research instead of worrying about living expenses.
- In addition to the stipend, you will also get an annual research grant of ₹20 lakh. This will cover the cost of Lab equipment and any other project-related expenses
- The fellowship is awarded for 3 years, which is enough time to carry out meaningful and impactful research.
- You will also be allowed to hire one research team member with you to help you with your project. This could be a Junior Research Fellow or Senior Research Fellow, Project Assistant, or Project Associate, depending on your needs.
- You can buy important equipment for your research, but the total cost should not be more than ₹10 lakh. This equipment will be bought in the name of the institute where you’ll be doing your research, not in your personal name.
Important Dates
- The start date of the application is 15 January 2025
- The last date of application is 16 March 2025
- Note: It’s a 60-day span; you have to apply it before the spans end.
- Duration and Number of Fellowships total of 50 seats are available
- The fellowship is awarded for 3 years.
- During these years, fellows are expected to carry out their independent research work at a DBT-Autonomous Institute.
- The fellowship cannot be extended beyond 3 years, so research planning should be done accordingly.
- Selection Process
- First, all applications are checked to make sure they meet the basic eligibility rules and have all the required documents. After that, a group of expert scientists carefully reviews each application.
- They look at things like:
- Your past research work
- Publications in good scientific journals
- Any technologies or patents you’ve developed
- The quality and importance of your research proposal
- After reviewing everything, a selection committee formed by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) makes the final decision. Only the most talented students are selected.
- How to Apply for the MK Bhan Fellowship 2025?
- Start by visiting the official MK Bhan Fellowship website.
- Click on the Apply Now button
- Now it’s time to fill in all the required details carefully.
- Upload all necessary documents like your resume, research proposal, certificates, etc.
- Once everything is filled out and attached, click the “Submit” button to complete your application.
- FAQs – M. K. Bhan Fellowship 2025
- What is the M.K. Bhan Young Researcher Fellowship Program (MKB-YRFP)?
- It is a prestigious fellowship program by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, to support young postdoctoral researchers in the field of life sciences and biotechnology. It offers them the opportunity to work independently at DBT-supported autonomous research institutions.
- Who can apply for the fellowship?
- Indian citizens only
- Ph.D.
- Applicants should be below 35 years of age
- Must not hold a permanent position
- Can I apply if I have submitted my Ph.D. thesis but haven’t received the degree yet?
- Yes. However, you will need to present proof of award before the fellowship is activated.
- What is the duration of the fellowship?
- Initial duration: 3 years
- May be extended by 2 more years based on performance review and availability of funds
- How much financial support is provided?
- Fellowship (salary): ₹90,000/month
- Research grant: ₹20 lakhs/year (including equipment and contingency)
- Equipment grant: Up to ₹10 lakhs (usually in Year 1)
- Manpower: Support for hiring a project assistant/JRF
- Can I hold this fellowship with another fellowship or job?
- No. The MKB-YRFP is exclusive. You cannot hold another fellowship, research grant, or permanent job while availing this.
- Is there any relocation or travel grant provided?
- No separate relocation grant is provided. However, domestic and international travel related to research can be covered under the research budget with proper approvals.
- How are fellows selected?
- Selection is based on:
- Scientific merit of the proposal
- Track record of the applicant
- Infrastructure and support from the host institution
A national-level expert committee evaluates applications.
- Can I visit labs abroad during my fellowship?
- Yes. You may undertake short-term (up to 3 months) international visits for collaborations or training with prior DBT approval.
- How do I apply? Apply through the DBT online portal or the Common Fellowship Portal.
- How many fellowships are awarded?
- Up to 50 fellowships are awarded each year.
- Is the fellowship taxable?
- Yes, the fellowship is subject to applicable income tax as per Indian tax laws.
- What happens if I get a permanent job during the fellowship?
- The fellowship component (salary) will be discontinued. However, the research grant may continue (with DBT’s approval) if you remain at the same host institution.
- Whom should I contact for help?
- You can email the DBT program officer listed in the official advertisement or visit the DBT website: https://dbtindia.gov.in.
- 16. What is the last date to apply?
- The last date of application is 16 March 2025