ICSSR scholarships, doctoral and postdoctoral fellowships, research grants, JRF/SRF positions, short-term fellowships, research projects, and academic research opportunities in social sciences

Apply for the ICSSR Senior Fellowship 2025–26 in Social Sciences – Social Science Research Opportunity in India

About the Fellowship

The ICSSR Senior Fellowship is a prestigious opportunity for experienced Indian researchers in the social sciences to engage in full-time, advanced research. It is designed for scholars with a proven record of high-impact publications and significant contributions to their field. The fellowship enables researchers to undertake projects with national relevance, generate evidence-based insights, and contribute to policy development and academic discourse. Fellows have access to structured funding, institutional resources, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. The programme encourages the publication of research in peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes, enhancing both academic and societal impact.

Fellowship / Details

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Main Subjects:

  • Sociology
  • Political Science
  • Economics
  • Public Policy
  • Anthropology
  • Education
  • Social Work

Interdisciplinary Fields:

  • Urban Studies
  • Governance
  • Development Studies
  • Migration
  • Social Justice

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • Ph.D. degree in social sciences or allied disciplines
  • Indian citizenship
  • Age 45–70 years as of the last date of application
  • Outstanding research publications, including books and papers in high-impact journals
  • Affiliation with UGC-recognized universities, Institutes of National Importance, or ICSSR Research Institutes

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals
  • Experience with interdisciplinary research and national-level projects

Not Eligible:

  • Previous defaulters of ICSSR projects or fellowships
  • Applicants who have already received the Senior Fellowship

Fellowship / Job Benefits

  • Monthly stipend: Rs. 45,000 for 24 months
  • Contingency grant: Rs. 40,000 per annum
  • Salary protection for regular faculty in public-funded institutions
  • Institutional support: office space, research resources, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct full-time research in social sciences
  • Publish at least two research papers in peer-reviewed journals or edited volumes
  • Submit Six-Monthly Progress Reports and a final report to ICSSR
  • Acknowledge ICSSR support in all publications arising from the fellowship

Application Process

How to Apply:

  • Candidates shall submit an online application on the ICSSR website from 03.10.2025 onwards
  • Last date for submission: 31.10.2025
  • Attach CV, research proposal, recommendation letters, and other supporting documents

Required Documents:

  • Application form
  • CV / Resume
  • Research proposal or project summary
  • Recommendation letters
  • Publications or other endorsements

Important Dates

  • Application Opens: 03.10.2025
  • Deadline: 31.10.2025
  • Fellowship Start Date: [Month/Year]

Where to Apply

Learn about more Research Opportunities: HigherJobz

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