A premier opportunity to launch a high-impact research career in India is now open! The Ramanujan Fellowship 2026, funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, invites outstanding scientists and engineers from around the world to pursue independent research at top Indian institutions. This prestigious, fully-funded fellowship is designed to attract brilliant researchers to India’s vibrant R&D ecosystem. If you are an Indian or foreign scientist with an exceptional track record, this fellowship is your gateway to becoming a research leader. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but institutions must submit proposals by specified cut-off dates.
Ramanujan Fellowship 2026 – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of this elite research fellowship:
- Fellowship Sponsor: Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India
- Host Institutions: Eligible Indian Institutions (Universities, IITs, IISERs, National Labs, etc.)
- Program Type: Fully Funded Postdoctoral/Senior Research Fellowship
- Fellowship Duration: Up to 5 years
- Target Group: Exceptional Indian & Foreign Scientists & Engineers
- Application Process: Rolling (through a host institution)
About the Ramanujan Fellowship Program
The Ramanujan Fellowship is one of India’s most prestigious and competitive research fellowships. Named after the legendary mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, it aims to identify and nurture exceptional young talent with a proven track record of independent research.
This is not a typical postdoc. Fellows are expected to establish and lead independent research programs, becoming pillars of their host institutions. The fellowship provides generous funding and autonomy, empowering researchers to pursue bold ideas and make significant contributions to science and technology in India.
Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria are designed to identify researchers with demonstrated excellence and high potential:
- Nationality: Open to Indian nationals as well as foreign nationals (including Overseas Citizens of India – OCIs).
- Age Limit: Applicants must be below the age of 40 years (as of the application deadline).
- Qualification: Must hold a Ph.D. degree in Science, Engineering, or Technology.
- Experience: Must have a proven, outstanding research track record with high-impact publications, patents, or other significant contributions. Candidates with post-doctoral research experience are preferred.
- Position: The applicant must not hold a regular/permanent academic/research position in India at the time of application.
Comprehensive Fellowship Benefits & Funding
The Ramanujan Fellowship is a comprehensive, institution-based grant that provides substantial support:
- Fellow’s Salary: A consolidated monthly fellowship amount (typically aligned with top academic scales in India).
- Research Grant: A generous annual research contingency grant (e.g., ₹7-10 lakhs per year) to cover equipment, consumables, travel, and other project expenses.
- Institutional Overhead: A grant is provided to the host institution for infrastructure and administrative support.
- Housing: Host institutions are mandated to provide accommodation or a Housing Allowance (HRA).
- Autonomy: Fellows have the freedom to independently guide research students and set their research agenda.
How to Apply for the Ramanujan Fellowship (Step-by-Step)
Important: Individual scientists cannot apply directly. The application must be initiated and submitted by an eligible Indian host institution.
- Secure a Host Institution: The candidate must first identify and contact a suitable Indian institution (University/IIT/IISc/National Lab) that agrees to host them and their proposed research program.
- Proposal Development: The candidate works with the host institution to prepare a detailed research proposal, CV, and other required documents.
- Institutional Submission: The host institution formally nominates the candidate by submitting the complete application proposal to the Department of Science & Technology (DST) before their internal deadline.
- Review & Selection: DST conducts a rigorous peer-review and selection process. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview/presentation.
Tips: The most critical step is finding a strong host institution that champions your research vision. Proactively reach out to faculty and department heads at top Indian R&D institutions whose work aligns with yours. Your research proposal must be compelling, innovative, and demonstrate clear potential for impact.
Application Timeline
- Application Mode: Rolling, but institutions have specific cut-off dates for submission to DST.
- Process: Interested candidates should start contacting potential host institutions well in advance (6-12 months before the expected fellowship start date).
Official Website
For the most authoritative information on guidelines, eligibility, and the list of nodal officers, always refer to the official DST website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I apply directly as an individual researcher?
A: No. Applications must be submitted by an eligible Indian host institution (university, IIT, national laboratory, etc.) that agrees to host you. You cannot apply directly to DST.
Q2: What is the age limit for applicants?
A: The upper age limit is 40 years as of the date of the application deadline set by the institution/DST.
Q3: Is the fellowship open to foreign nationals?
A: Yes. The fellowship is open to brilliant scientists and engineers of all nationalities, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and foreign nationals.
Q4: What kind of financial support is provided?
A: The fellowship provides a competitive salary for the fellow, a substantial annual research grant (contingency), and institutional overheads. It is a complete package to establish an independent research lab.
Q5: What happens after the 5-year fellowship period?
A: The host institution is expected to absorb the Ramanujan Fellow into a regular faculty position upon successful completion of the fellowship, subject to their recruitment rules and the fellow’s performance.
Need Help? Discussing potential research ideas or host institutions? Let us know in the comments below!
Don’t Miss Out: Share this prestigious research leadership opportunity with postdocs and early-career scientists in your network!
