VAIBHAV Fellowship at Indian Higher Educational & Research Institutions, India
About the Fellowship
The VAIBHAV Fellowship (VAIshwik BHArtiya Vaigyanik) is a prestigious initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, aimed at strengthening the research ecosystem of India through collaboration with Indian-origin scientists and technologists abroad. This fellowship promotes brain circulation, scientific collaboration, and long-term engagement between global Indian researchers and Indian institutions, aligning with India’s broader goals of scientific self-reliance and innovation leadership.
Fellowship Details
- Position: VAIBHAV Fellow
- Institution: Indian Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) / Public Funded Scientific Institutions / National Laboratories
- Administering Body: Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India
- Location: Across India
- Research Field: Multidisciplinary (See below)
- Type: Fellowship
- Duration: Up to 2 months per year, for a maximum of 3 years
- Start Date (Anticipated): Late 2025
- Working Hours: As per host institution norms
- Funding/Compensation:
- Monthly Fellowship: ₹4,00,000 (~USD 5,000)
- Travel Support: Business class airfare (international), domestic travel allowance
- Accommodation: Up to ₹7,500/day for furnished housing
- Research Grant: ₹1,00,000/year
- Institutional Grant: Up to ₹5,00,000/year for overheads and contingencies
- Required Degree/Diploma: Ph.D., M.D., M.S., or M.Tech from a recognized institution
Research Areas Supported
- Quantum Technologies
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Computational & Data Sciences
- Photonics & Optoelectronics
- Energy Technologies
- Semiconductors & Communication
- Aerospace Engineering
- Material Science & Manufacturing
- Earth & Environmental Sciences
- Health, Medical Sciences & Biomedical Devices
- Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
- Agricultural Sciences
- Social Sciences for SDGs
- Technology Management & Innovation
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Must be a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Person of Indian Origin (PIO), or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
- Ph.D./M.D./M.Tech or equivalent with minimum 5 years of research experience
- Currently affiliated with a top 200 QS World University (subject-wise) or a reputed global R&D organization
- Must not be currently employed in India
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong publication record
- Prior experience in international research collaboration
- Demonstrated mentorship and teaching capabilities
Not Eligible:
- Indian citizens currently residing in India
- Candidates with only PhD/Postdoc experience abroad without qualifying work experience
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Visa Sponsorship
- Monthly Stipend of ₹4,00,000
- Health and Accident Coverage
- Travel Reimbursement (International & Domestic)
- Accommodation Support
- Annual Research Grant
- Institutional Support Grant
- Opportunity to Mentor Indian Students and Collaborate on Research
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct collaborative research with host institution
- Transfer knowledge and best practices in research and innovation
- Mentor postgraduate/doctoral students and early-career researchers
- Engage in capacity building and help integrate international standards
- Submit annual progress reports and a final report at the end of the tenure
Application Process
How to Apply:
Apply online via the Department of Science and Technology’s application portal.
🔗 Application Portal: https://onlinedst.gov.in
Required Documents:
- Completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal or project summary
- Letters of Recommendation
- Supporting documents (e.g., proof of affiliation, publications)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: April 15, 2025
- Deadline: May 30, 2025, 11:59 PM IST
- Review Period: June–August 2025
- Final Results Notification: September 2025
- Start of Fellowship: November/December 2025
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: https://dst.gov.in
- Fellowship Announcement: https://dst.gov.in/vaibhav-fellowship
- Application Portal: https://onlinedst.gov.in
📧 Contact for Queries: vaibhav.fellowship@gov.in
