ICAR Emeritus Scientist Scheme 2026: Research Tenure, Eligibility & Application Process

At a glance

About the scheme

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) runs the Emeritus Scientist Scheme to tap into the knowledge base of superannuated professionals from the National Agricultural Research System (NARS). Open to retired Principal Scientists, Professors, and higher ranks, the programme ensures that vital ongoing research is carried to its logical conclusion rather than abandoned upon retirement. Alongside concluding research, these experienced scientists contribute by teaching specialized courses, creating instructional multimedia materials, and advising on key national agricultural policies.

Benefits

• Opportunity to conclude ongoing nationally important research projects.
• Platform to teach specialized academic courses and formulate multimedia learning materials.
• Engagement tenure granted for up to three years or until attaining 70 years of age.
• Scope to address strategic agricultural policy challenges and regional developmental imbalances.

Who can apply (eligibility)

• Applicant must be an outstanding superannuated scientist or teacher from the National Agricultural Research System (NARS).
• Must have held the rank of Principal Scientist, Professor, or above.
• Must possess a distinguished record of published work and at least 5 years of teaching or training experience.
• Scientists or professors due to superannuate within the next 12 months are eligible to apply.
• Maximum age limit to apply is 65 years.
• Work must be in agriculture, veterinary science & animal husbandry, fisheries, home science, dairy technology, or allied sciences.

Who cannot apply

• Scheme support will not be extended for launching an entirely new project.
• Not granted if equally competent regular scientists are available in the host institute to carry out the proposed work.

Documents required

• 15 copies of the application completed in the prescribed proforma.
• Official recommendation and justification from the Executive Authority of the proposed host institution.
• Record of published research papers and teaching experience.

How to apply

1. 1Review the notification for vacant slots announced periodically by ICAR and visit https://rlbs.icar.gov.in/.
2. 2Fill out the application form in the prescribed proforma detailing the ongoing work to be concluded.
3. 3Secure an official recommendation with justification from the Executive Authority of the institute where the work is proposed.
4. 4Submit 15 copies of the application through the host Executive Authority to the Deputy Director General (Education), ICAR.

Frequently asked questions