Post-Doctoral Fellowship 2026 at IISc
Ready to take your research career to the next level? The prestigious Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru announces its highly competitive Post-Doctoral Fellowship program. This is a golden opportunity for life science graduates and researchers to work in world-class laboratories, access cutting-edge infrastructure, and receive an attractive Research Grant: ₹2,00,000 per year. If you aim to contribute to impactful scientific discoveries, this fellowship is your gateway.
About IISc Bengaluru
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru is India’s leading institution for advanced scientific research and education. Established with a legacy of innovation, IISc is globally recognized for excellence in Biological Sciences and interdisciplinary research. It provides state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative environment, making it a top destination for Post-Doctoral Fellowship aspirants and a premier opportunity for life science graduates.
IISc Post-Doctoral Fellowship (IPDF) at Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, invites applications from highly motivated researchers with a strong record of academic excellence for the IISc Post-Doctoral Fellowship (IPDF).
Recognized as one of India’s premier institutions for advanced scientific research and higher education, IISc has a distinguished legacy of fundamental discoveries and impactful innovations that contribute to societal advancement.
Departments and Centres
Candidates must apply to a specific department or centre. The fellowship is offered across the following divisions:
- Biological Sciences: Biochemistry, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience, Microbiology and Cell Biology, Molecular Biophysics Unit, Developmental Biology and Genetics
- Interdisciplinary Sciences: Bioengineering, Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Computational and Data Sciences, Management Studies
- Other Interdisciplinary Centres: Centre for Infrastructure, Sustainable Transportation and Urban Planning, Divecha Centre for Climate Change, Interdisciplinary Centre for Energy Research, Interdisciplinary Centre for Water Research, Robert Bosch Centre for Cyber-Physical Systems
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- A Ph.D. degree with First Class or equivalent in preceding academic qualifications
- A consistently strong academic record
- Candidates who have submitted their Ph.D. thesis may also apply (with proof of submission)
- Preferably below 32 years of age at the time of application
Nationality
- Open to Indian nationals
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCI)
- Foreign nationals
Fellowship Duration
- Initial tenure: 1 year
- Extension: May be extended by an additional year based on performance evaluation
Emoluments and Benefits
- Fellowship: ₹80,000 per month + HRA (as applicable)
- Research Grant: ₹2,00,000 per year
For Candidates Awaiting Ph.D. Defense
- Fellowship: ₹50,000 per month + HRA
- No research grant during this period
- Upgraded to full IPDF benefits upon successful Ph.D. defense
Application Process
Candidates must follow a two-step process:
- Faculty Consent
Applicants must contact a faculty member at IISc willing to host them. A consent letter or email from the faculty member is mandatory. - Online Application
Applications must be submitted through the official Post-Doctoral portal. Required documents include:- Curriculum Vitae (with publication list)
- 2–5 key publications (PDF format)
- Research proposal (maximum 500 words)
- Faculty consent letter/email
- Ph.D. certificate / provisional certificate / thesis submission proof
- Any additional relevant information
Application Timeline
Applications are accepted throughout the year. Review cycles occur quarterly on:
- 31 March
- 30 June
- 30 September
- 31 December
Decisions are typically communicated within 6 weeks after each review date.
Selection Process
Applications will be screened based on academic and research merit. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview:
- In-person or via video conferencing
Final selection will be based on:
- Research potential
- Academic achievements
- Fit with host department
Important Guidelines
- Meeting minimum eligibility does not guarantee selection
- The Institute reserves the right to shortlist candidates
- Applicants are responsible for the accuracy of submitted information
- Providing false information may lead to cancellation of candidature
- The fellowship is non-transferable
- Selected candidates must carry out research work at IISc only
Contact Information
Office of Deans of Divisions
Indian Institute of Science
Bengaluru – 560 012
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +91-80-22932478 / +91-80-22932286
Additional Notes
Candidates are encouraged to directly contact department chairs or faculty members for further clarification. Detailed information about departments, research areas, and faculty is available on the official IISc website.































