Are you a young researcher looking for an opportunity to advance your career in medical and scientific research? The ICMR-Post Doctoral Fellowship (ICMR-PDF) scheme, initiated by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), offers a prestigious fellowship program for fresh Ph.D., MD, and MS holders. This scheme aims to nurture high-quality research in areas like basic sciences, communicable and non-communicable diseases, reproductive health, and nutrition.
Why Should You Apply?
The ICMR-PDF scheme provides an excellent platform for researchers to work at state-of-the-art research centers across India. Each year, 50 fellowships are granted based on the needs of ICMR Institutes and Centers. This is a great chance to enhance your research career under the mentorship of top scientists.
Benefits of the Fellowship
- Monthly stipend of ₹65,000 plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per government norms.
- Non-Practicing Allowance (NPA) for eligible candidates.
- Annual contingency grant of ₹3,00,000 for research-related expenses.
- 25% of the contingency fund can be used for national travel related to research work.
- Medical benefits and leave as per ICMR rules.
- Accommodation at ICMR institutes may be provided if available (in such cases, HRA will not be given).
Who is Eligible?
To apply for the ICMR-PDF, you must meet the following criteria:
- Indian nationals only can apply.
- You must have completed your Ph.D./MD/MS degree within the last three years or hold a provisional degree.
- Your post-doctoral research should be related to your Ph.D. or MD/MS work.
- Maximum age limit is 32 years, with relaxation up to 5 years for SC/ST/OBC/PH and women candidates.
- Further relaxation of 3 years may be granted for deserving candidates with a strong academic record.
- You must have a Scientist-C grade guide for supervision.
- Medical postgraduates can apply if their college is MCI-recognized with at least three batches of graduates.
- Plagiarism check report must be submitted along with the application.
Application Process
The application process for ICMR-PDF is offline, with deadlines on June 30 and December 31 every year.
Steps to Apply:
- Download the application form from the official ICMR website.
- Fill out all required details and sign where needed.
- Attach necessary documents (self-attested copies).
- Submit the completed application to the following address before the deadline: Director General, ICMR
Attention: Sh. Kishor Toppo, Technical Officer-C
Division of Human Resource Development, ICMR Headquarters, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110029
Email: toppok.hq@icmr.gov.in, mpdicmr@gmail.com
Note: Applications submitted without a recommendation from an ICMR Institute/Center will be rejected.
Selection Process
The selection is based on:
- Publications, citations, and impact factor of previous research work.
- A personal interview conducted at ICMR Headquarters, New Delhi.
- Candidates from abroad may be considered in absentia if eligible.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following documents: ✔ Passport-size photograph
✔ Date of Birth proof (School Certificate)
✔ Mark sheets and Degree certificates
✔ Caste certificate (if applicable)
✔ Research publications (if any)
✔ One-page summary of Ph.D. thesis
✔ Research proposal
✔ Acceptance letters for publications (if any)
✔ Two reference letters (one from Ph.D. guide)
✔ Plagiarism check report verified by ICMR-RIO
Final Thoughts
The ICMR-Post Doctoral Fellowship is a golden opportunity for young researchers to contribute to cutting-edge scientific advancements while receiving financial and professional support. If you are passionate about research and wish to work with some of the best institutes in India, don’t miss out on this opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “ICMR- Post Doctoral Fellowship” Scheme?
ICMR- Post Doctoral Fellowship (ICMR-PDF) Scheme is being instituted to foster high-quality research opportunities for promising fresh Ph.D./MD/MS holders in the cutting-edge areas of basic science, communicable and non-communicable diseases, and reproductive health including nutrition at ICMR Institutes /Centers.
Who are eligible to apply under the scheme?
Fresh PhDs/MD/MS within three years of completing their Ph.D./MD/MS degree (awarded) as on the last date of the application and also those who have received their provisional Ph.D./MD/MS degree can apply.
What is the number of fellowships awarded annually?
ICMR intends to offer fifty (50) fellowships every year for working in ICMR Institutes/Centers with state-of-the-art R&D facilities.
What is the criterion of selection?
The selection of the “ICMR Centenary Post-Doctoral Fellows” will be made through the interview of short-listed candidates by a specially constituted Selection Committee by DG, ICMR based on their publications, citations, and impact factors.
How much will the monthly fellowship be given to the eligible fellow?
ICMR-PDFs will be paid a consolidated fellowship of ₹65,000/- per month plus House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per Govt. of India rule and Non-Practicing allowance (NPA) as admissible.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
Two years only and extendable for a maximum of one more year based on outstanding performance and recommendations by the Director/Officer-in-Charge of the concerned ICMR Institutes/Centers.
How can an applicant apply for the scheme?
The applications may be submitted with all relevant documents to Director General, Sh. Kishor Toppo, Technical Officer-C, Division of Human Resource Development, Indian Council of Medical Research Headquarters, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi-110029.
