DBT-RA Programme 2026: ₹55,000 Monthly Fellowship, Eligibility & How to Apply

At a glance

About the scheme

The DBT-Research Associateship Programme is administered by the Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology to cultivate skilled researchers and expand the nation's scientific capacity in modern biology and biotechnology. Awardees receive hands-on postdoctoral training with guidance from experienced mentors and access to state-of-the-art institutional laboratories. The fellowship is granted for two years with an option for renewal, and selected working professionals must resign from their current posts to join.

Benefits

• Monthly research fellowship of ₹55,000.
• House Rent Allowance (HRA) and other admissible benefits.
• Annual research contingency grant of ₹50,000.
• Tenure of two years, with the possibility of extension for another two years based on performance.
• Direct access to modern laboratory infrastructure and mentorship from senior scientists.

Who can apply (eligibility)

• Applicant must hold a Ph.D. in Science or Engineering, or an M.D./M.S. in medicine with research interests in Biotechnology and Life Sciences (candidates awaiting degree award may also apply).
• Applicant must have a consistently good academic record.
• Male candidates must not be older than 40 years as on the application deadline.
• Female candidates must not be older than 45 years as on the application deadline.
• Employed professionals can apply, but must relinquish their job before accepting the fellowship.
• The fellowship can be availed only once in an applicant's career.

Who cannot apply

• Candidates who have previously availed the DBT-RA fellowship.
• Employed candidates who do not relinquish their existing employment upon selection.

Documents required

• Self-attested PDF copy of Date of Birth (DOB) certificate.
• Self-attested PDF copies of relevant degree certificates.
• Consent letter from the proposed research mentor (as per the portal format).
• Letters of recommendation submitted directly online by the nominated referees.

How to apply

1. 1Visit the official DBT-RA Online Portal at https://ra.dbtindia.gov.in/.
2. 2Register an account on the portal and log in to begin the application.
3. 3Enter all required details including personal information, academic qualifications, and research achievements.
4. 4Provide particulars regarding your proposed research project, mentor, host institution, and referees.
5. 5Upload self-attested PDF copies of your birth certificate, degree certificates, and the mentor consent letter.
6. 6Trigger the online recommendation request link to your referees through the portal so they can submit their letters on time.
7. 7Verify all entered data and submit the completed application form online before the closing date.

Frequently asked questions