The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is offering the National Science Chair (NSC) scheme to recognize and support eminent senior scientists in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), and Medicine. This scheme aims to provide opportunities for continued research and leadership for scientists even after superannuation, leveraging their expertise and experience.

Background and Purpose

The Indian science landscape is rapidly evolving, necessitating support for senior scientists to continue their research endeavors. Many experienced scientists face challenges in maintaining their research activities post-retirement. The NSC scheme addresses this by providing a platform for these scientists to remain active and contribute to R&D.

The primary goal of the NSC scheme is to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of senior Indian scientists in STEM and Medicine, both nationally and internationally. It aims to foster excellence and growth in research and development by utilizing the vast knowledge and experience of these individuals.

The scheme will be implemented in two modes, each catering to different aspects of scientific contribution and leadership. These modes ensure that both research excellence and scientific leadership are recognized and supported.

Mode-1: Scientific Excellence

Mode-1 focuses on supporting senior scientists who have made significant contributions to research and wish to continue their R&D activities after superannuation. This mode recognizes the importance of utilizing the expertise of meritorious scientists, regardless of age, to avoid national loss of valuable knowledge.

The objective is to provide continued support for eminent senior scientists who are passionate about research, as evidenced by their scientific output. This support enables them to sustain their research efforts and contribute further to their respective fields.

Eligibility for nomination includes being an active resident Indian scientist with an outstanding research track record in STEM or Medicine, particularly in the last five years. Nominees must have received recognition from national or international scientific bodies and be affiliated with an academic institution or R&D lab.

Mode-2: Science Leadership

Mode-2 is designed to recognize thought leadership and the tangible impact of work carried out by scientists, particularly in developing an international reputation as R&D leaders. This includes mentoring younger colleagues, conducting innovative research, and assisting in policy formulation.

The objective is to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of resident Indian scientists towards excellence at the national and global levels. This recognition highlights their leadership and influence in the scientific community.

Eligibility requires the nominee to be a distinguished resident Indian scientist in STEM or Medicine, with significant contributions in the last 10 years. They must be recognized as a Science Leader by national or international scientific bodies and be affiliated with an academic institution or R&D lab.

Eligibility and Nomination Process

To be eligible, nominees must be active resident Indian scientists/academicians with outstanding research track records in STEM and medicine. Recognition from national/international scientific bodies is essential. Affiliation with an academic institution or R&D lab is also required.

• Nominees should not hold administrative roles.

• They should not receive any honorarium/fellowship/salary from other sources at the time of the NSC award initiation.

Nominations are invited from Presidents of national science academies, Directors of premier institutes, Vice-Chancellors of Universities, and members of Scientific Advisory Councils. Completed nominations, including a research proposal (for Mode-1), must be submitted online via www.anrfonline.in.

Funding and Support

The award provides Rs 1.5 lakh per month as fellowship for both modes. Additionally, a Research Grant of Rs 25 lakhs per annum for Mode-1 and Rs 5 Lakhs per annum for Mode-2 is provided. This grant can be used for research personnel, equipment, travel, and contingency expenses.

The grant must be utilized as per the norms of the Host Institute. An additional Rs. 1.0 lakh per annum is provided to the host institution for overhead expenses. The award is initially for 3 years, extendable by a maximum of 2 years based on NSCAC recommendations.

Selected Chairs must join within six months of the offer letter date. All grants are released through the Host Institute, which must submit audited statements of accounts and utilization certificates to ANRF.