The ANRF-National Post Doctoral Fellowship (N-PDF) aims to support motivated young researchers in frontier areas of science and engineering. This fellowship provides a platform for fellows to develop as independent researchers under the guidance of a mentor.

Objective and Focus

The primary objective of the N-PDF is to identify and support young researchers, providing them with opportunities to conduct research in cutting-edge fields. The program emphasizes mentorship, fostering the development of independent research skills among fellows.

The fellowship supports research across a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines. Fellows are expected to contribute to advancements in their chosen fields through innovative research projects.

The program aims to enhance the research ecosystem in India by nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders. By providing financial support and mentorship, the N-PDF contributes to the growth of research and development in the country.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the N-PDF, applicants must be Indian citizens with a Ph.D./M.D./M.S. degree from a recognized University. Candidates who have submitted their thesis but are awaiting the degree are also eligible, although they will receive a lower fellowship amount until the degree is awarded.

The upper age limit is 35 years at the time of application submission, with age calculated as of the call's closure date. Age relaxation of 5 years is provided for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Physically Challenged & Women categories.

• Applicants can avail the N-PDF only once in their career.

• The mentor must hold a regular academic/research position in a recognized Indian institution and possess a Ph.D. degree in Science or Engineering.

• A mentor can supervise a maximum of two ANRF NPDF fellows at any given time.

Nature and Duration of Support

The fellowship is tenable only in India and can be implemented in recognized academic institutions, national laboratories, and other recognized R&D institutions. The host institution is expected to provide the necessary administrative and infrastructural support.

The fellowship is a temporary assignment, tenable for a period of 2 years. Fellows cannot work with their Ph.D. guide/co-guide or at the same department/institution where they earned their Ph.D./M.S./M.D. degree.

The fellowship provides financial support including a monthly fellowship, research grant, and overheads. Fellows are not allowed to receive any other fellowship from any Government or Non-Governmental source during the fellowship tenure.

Financial Details

The fellowship provides a monthly stipend of Rs. 80,000 plus applicable HRA. Candidates who have submitted their thesis but not yet been awarded the Ph.D. degree will receive Rs. 50,000 per month plus applicable HRA.

A research grant of Rs. 2,00,000 per annum is provided for minor equipment, consumables, contingencies, and domestic travel. Overheads of Rs. 1,00,000 per annum are also included.

The research grant cannot be used for research personnel support. The fellow is expected to undertake the research objectives independently during the fellowship.

Application and Selection Process

The call for applications will be announced on the ANRF website. Applicants must submit their application form and research proposal online through the specified website.

Applicants must identify a suitable mentor under whom the proposed research will be conducted. The selection process involves evaluation by an Expert Committee, and applicants may be called for a personal interview.

The application requires detailed information including a project title, summary, keywords, objectives, and expected outcomes. A work methodology and research plan (maximum 3 pages) must be uploaded as a single PDF file.