The Ramalingaswami Re-entry Fellowship (RRF), a flagship program by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India invites applications from Indian researchers working abroad to return and conduct innovative scientific research in Indian institutions. Set up in the year 2006-07, the aims to build robust of India’s biotechnology ecosystem by luring global talent. Eligible candidates can submit their application online latest by March 15, 2025.
About Ramalingaswami Re-entry Fellowship (RRF)
The RRF program facilitates the return of highly skilled Indian researchers working overseas in biotechnology, life sciences, healthcare, agriculture, bioengineering, and allied fields. By offering competitive grants and research opportunities, it seeks to:
- Enhance India’s scientific workforce.
- Foster innovation in priority sectors like bioenergy, veterinary sciences, and human health.
- Build long-term research leadership in academia and industry.
Key Objectives
- Encourage Indian researchers abroad to reintegrate into India’s R&D landscape.
- Provide funding and institutional support for high-impact research.
- Strengthen India’s position in emerging biotech domains.
RRF 2025 Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Ramalingaswami Re-entry Fellowship (DBT-RRF) |
| Launched By | Ministry of Science & Technology (DBT), Government of India |
| Beneficiaries | Indian researchers employed overseas in life sciences/biotech |
| Fellowship Amount | ₹1,35,000/month + ₹13 lakh/year (research grant) |
| Duration | 3 years (extendable to 5 years upon review) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Deadline | March 15, 2025 |
| Official Website | https://fellowships.gov.in/rrf-registration-2024-25/generate |
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be Indian citizens with a permanent residency status.
- Hold a PhD/MD/M.Tech in life sciences, biotechnology, medicine, agriculture, or allied fields.
- Have ≥3 years of postdoctoral research experience abroad.
- Be ≤45 years at the time of application.
Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the Portal: Go to the Common Fellowship Portal.
- Generate CFPID: Register to create a unique ID.
- Fill Application: Provide personal, academic, and research details.
- Upload Documents: Submit required files (see checklist below).
- Review & Submit: Verify details and finalize the application.
Required Documents
- Proof of age (birth certificate/passport).
- PhD/MD degree certificates.
- Research publications (top 5 reprints).
- Detailed research proposal (3–5 pages).
- Host institution acceptance letter.
- Recommendation letters (2–3).
- Employer statement (if currently employed abroad).
Selection Process
- Screening for eligibility and research merit.
- Evaluation by expert panels based on:
- Academic credentials.
- Potential impact of proposed research.
- Relevance to India’s biotech priorities.
Fellowship Benefits
- Monthly stipend: ₹1,35,000.
- Annual research grant: ₹13 lakh for equipment, travel, and personnel.
- Institutional affiliation: Collaboration with premier Indian labs/universities.
Important Dates
- Application Opens: January 28, 2025
- Last Date to Apply: March 15, 2025
FAQs
Q1. Who is eligible for RRF?
Indian researchers abroad with a PhD + 3 years’ experience in biotech/life sciences.
Q2. Can the fellowship be extended?
Yes, up to 2 additional years upon performance review.
Q3. Is there an age limit?
Applicants must be ≤45 years at the time of application.
Q4. How to apply?
Online via the Common Fellowship Portal.
Contact & Resources
- Helpline: 0129–2848538/539
- Guidelines: [Download PDF](Official Link)
- Advertisement: [Detailed Notification](Official Link)
Why Apply?
The RRF presents an one of a kind way to pushback in India’s active vital research environment. Apply now be part of India’s Scientific Development
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