PhD Admissions 2025-26: Comprehensive Information on JNCASR, BRIC-inStem, CSIR-IGIB & NCBS-GS

1. JNCASR PhD Admissions 2025-26

Eligibility Criteria:

• A Master’s degree (MSc/MTech) in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or related fields from a recognized institution.
• A minimum of 50–60% marks (exact cutoff can vary; relaxations apply for reserved categories).
• National-level fellowships (CSIR/UGC/ICMR/DBT) are strongly preferred if you wish to secure an institute fellowship seat.
• Final-year Master’s students can apply subject to completing their degree before the PhD session starts.

How to Apply:

1. Online Application: Fill out the JNCASR admissions portal form (the institute may provide a dedicated platform).
2. Application Documents: Be ready with academic transcripts, proof of fellowship (if any), statement of purpose, and references.
3. Written Test/Shortlisting: Depending on the department, there may be a written screening test. Fellowship holders may be exempt from the written exam in some cases.
4. Interview: Shortlisted candidates are called for interviews (in-person or online).
5. Final Selection: Based on interviews, academic track record, and availability of fellowship seats.

Important Dates:

• Applications Open: Around March/April 2025
• Last Date to Apply: Likely May 2025
• Interview Schedule: June/July 2025
• Session Starts: August 2025

Program Details:

• Fellowship & Funding: Typically, institute or national fellowship ~₹31,000–35,000/month.
• Areas of Research: JNCASR offers research in interdisciplinary fields such as Materials Science, Theoretical Sciences, New Chemistry, Evolutionary & Integrative Biology, etc.
• Duration: Average 5 years, with coursework, a comprehensive exam, and thesis defense.
• On-Campus Facilities: Laboratories, housing (limited), library, etc.
• Selection Ratio: Highly competitive; strong academic record and clear research interests are crucial.
  
  

2. BRIC-inStem PhD Program (August 2025)

Eligibility Criteria:

• Master’s degree in Biology/related disciplines with at least 55–60% marks.
• A valid national fellowship (e.g., CSIR-JRF, UGC-JRF, DBT, ICMR) is mandatory. inStem does not provide a separate fellowship from core funding for this program.
• Those in the final year of Master’s may apply, provided they can activate their fellowship upon joining.

How to Apply:

1. Online Application: Fill the BRIC-inStem application form within the announced window.
2. Attach Documents: Academic marksheets, fellowship proof, statement of purpose, etc.
3. Interview Process:
   • Round 1 (Online): Short interview to assess basics and motivation.
   • Round 2 (In-Person at Bangalore): Deeper evaluation of research aptitude and compatibility with inStem labs.
4. Final Selection & Offer: Offers are made to successful candidates; they must confirm acceptance within ~10 days.

Important Dates:

• Application Period: March 2025 (closing ~end of March).
• Round 1 Interviews: April 2025 (online).
• Round 2 Interviews: May 2025 (in Bangalore).
• Program Start: August 1, 2025.

Program Details:

• Affiliation: The PhD degree is typically awarded through RCB (Regional Centre for Biotechnology), with the research carried out at inStem.
• Research Areas: Stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, cellular biology, chemical biology, computational biology, and more.
• Fellowship: Students must use their own external fellowship starting day one.
• Hostel Accommodation: Limited on-campus housing.
• Duration: ~5 years with milestones (proposal defense, annual reviews, thesis submission).
  
  

3. CSIR-IGIB PhD Program (August 2025)

Eligibility Criteria:

• Master’s degree (MSc/MTech) with at least 60% marks in any branch of life sciences, biotechnology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, or related fields.
• Must hold a valid Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) from CSIR, UGC, DBT, ICMR, or equivalent.
• Age limit ~28 years (relaxations apply); final-year Master’s students can apply conditionally.

How to Apply:

1. AcSIR Registration: Register on the AcSIR portal (Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research) for the August 2025 session.
2. IGIB Online Form: Fill the IGIB-specific form using the AcSIR Application Number, upload required documents (transcripts, fellowship proof), and pay the application fee if applicable.
3. Shortlisting & Interview Call: Candidates meeting eligibility are invited for in-person interviews at IGIB, Delhi.
4. Interview Process: Typically two rounds (broad panel, then deeper discussion). Focus on fundamentals, research aptitude, and the submitted research proposal.
5. Final Selection: Based on interview performance. Offers sent via email and website announcement.

Important Dates:

• Applications Open: March 2025
• Application Deadline: Mid-April 2025
• Interviews: May 2025 (in Delhi)
• Joining & Session Start: August 2025

Program Details:

• Research Areas: Genomics, chemical & systems biology, bioinformatics, structural biology, functional biology, etc.
• Enrollment & Degree: Students register as AcSIR PhD scholars; the degree is awarded by AcSIR.
• Fellowship Stipend: Supported by the candidate’s own JRF; ~₹31,000/month + HRA (initially).
• Hostel: Limited; outstation candidates may get assistance.
• Duration: Typically 5 years, including coursework, proposal defense, annual reviews, and thesis defense.
  
  

4. NCBS-GS 2025 PhD Program

Eligibility Criteria:

• Educational Background: Master’s degree in any science discipline (biology, physics, chemistry, etc.) or a professional degree (MTech, MPharm, MBBS, etc.).
• National Exam Route: Must have a strong rank in CSIR/UGC/DBT/ICMR-JRF or top percentile in GATE.
• OR
• TIFR (JGEEBILS) Exam Route: Those who took the TIFR national entrance in December 2024 follow a different application path.
• Final-year Master’s students are eligible if results are available by admission time.

How to Apply:

1. Online Form: Submit an initial application (NCBS “National Exam Route”) by the announced deadline.
2. Detailed Application: After screening, eligible candidates are asked to fill a full application (with academic info, statement of interest, references, etc.).
3. Shortlisting & Interview: NCBS shortlists applicants for two rounds of interviews. These are typically held in-person at NCBS Bangalore.
4. Final Selection: Selected candidates either use their external JRF or are awarded a TIFR fellowship.

Important Dates:

• Application Deadline: ~March 24, 2025
• Full Application Submission: By early April 2025 (within ~8 days of invite)
• Interviews: May/June 2025 in Bangalore
• Session Commences: August 2025

Program Details:

• Research Areas: Molecular biology, cell & developmental biology, neuroscience, ecology & evolution, structural biology, biophysics, and more.
• Fellowship: All admitted PhD students receive a stipend, either via external JRF or the NCBS/TIFR scholarship.
• Campus & Facilities: Residential campus in Bangalore with top-notch labs, library, and hostel.
• Duration: ~5–6 years including coursework, comprehensive exam, and thesis research.
  
  
  Note: The above information is compiled based on typical announcements and reference materials. Always check the official institute announcements for any updates or changes regarding application deadlines, eligibility criteria, or specific requirements.

IIIT Delhi Sets New Standard with ₹60,000 PhD Fellowship – A Boon for Aspiring Researchers

Introduction
The Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi (IIIT-Delhi) has long been revered as a rising star in India’s academic landscape. Established in 2008, IIIT-Delhi has earned an excellent reputation—both in India and abroad—for being a center of quality education and cutting-edge research in information technology and interdisciplinary areas. Guided by a vision to be a global hub of innovation, the institute boasts a strong research culture and internationally accomplished faculty. Now, in a bold move to further its commitment to research excellence, IIIT-Delhi has announced a significant hike in its PhD fellowship stipend—raising it to an unprecedented ₹60,000 per month. This landmark decision not only underscores IIIT-Delhi’s dedication to supporting its scholars but also sets a new benchmark for doctoral funding in India.

A Record-Setting Fellowship Hike to ₹60,000

In March 2025, IIIT-Delhi revealed that it increased its PhD fellowship from ₹37,000 to ₹60,000 per month—a substantial jump aimed at attracting top-tier research talent and strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem. This 60% raise positions IIIT-Delhi’s PhD stipend as one of the highest in the country. The institute’s director emphasized that this move aligns with IIIT-Delhi’s vision of advancing high-impact research and making academia a more viable career option for young talent. By offering financial support on par with (and even beyond) industry entry-level salaries, IIIT-Delhi hopes to empower scholars to pursue ambitious research without hesitation.

Generous Benefits Beyond the Stipend

The enhanced fellowship package at IIIT-Delhi goes far beyond a simple monthly stipend. PhD scholars will also enjoy a host of additional support measures to facilitate their research:

• Annual Research Grant: A research contingency fund for consumables, software, or minor equipment.
• One-Time Laptop Grant: A one-time allowance to purchase a high-performance laptop or computing device.
• Conference Funding (PDA): A Professional Development Allowance to support travel and fees for presenting at top international and national conferences or workshops.
• International Research Visits: Financial support for short-term research internships or collaborative visits to leading laboratories abroad.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to world-class research labs, high-performance computing clusters, and interdisciplinary centers at IIIT-Delhi that enable cutting-edge experimentation and innovation.
• Mentorship and Training: Guidance from IIIT-Delhi’s distinguished faculty and opportunities for mentorship, ensuring scholars develop robust research careers while also honing teaching skills as Teaching Assistants.

This comprehensive support system reflects IIIT-Delhi’s holistic approach to nurturing its PhD students. Financial hurdles are minimized, allowing students to focus entirely on their research without external pressures.

Eligibility Criteria for the PhD Fellowship

Such a lucrative fellowship naturally comes with competitive entry criteria designed to select motivated and capable researchers. To be eligible for IIIT-Delhi’s PhD program (and the fellowship), applicants generally must meet these requirements:

By keeping the admission bar high yet broadening access to include fresh graduates, IIIT-Delhi ensures it selects researchers with both aptitude and passion. The message is clear: if you have a solid academic foundation and a drive for research, IIIT-Delhi welcomes you, even early in your career.

Diverse PhD Research Areas at IIIT-Delhi

One of IIIT-Delhi’s strengths is the breadth of research areas and interdisciplinary programs it offers for doctoral studies. Prospective PhD scholars can pursue research in multiple major disciplines:

• Computer Science and Engineering (CSE): Covering artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, software engineering, systems, and more.
• Electronics and Communications Engineering (ECE): Encompassing VLSI design, embedded systems, wireless communications, signal processing, and related areas.
• Computational Biology (CB): Applying computational techniques to biological and healthcare data, bioinformatics, genomics, and systems biology.
• Human-Centered Design (HCD): An interdisciplinary field focusing on human-computer interaction, user experience design, and designing technology with a user-first approach.
• Mathematics (Math): Research in applied mathematics, algorithms, cryptography, theoretical computer science, and mathematical foundations of computing.
• Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH): Exploring the intersection of technology with society, including technology policy, economics, sociology, and ethics in IT.

IIIT-Delhi’s interdisciplinary ethos means students often collaborate across these domains—for example, applying AI (CSE) in healthcare (CB), or combining ECE and HCD for wearable devices. The institute’s multiple departments and specialized research centers provide fertile ground for cross-pollination of ideas, ensuring that doctoral researchers can find the perfect niche for their passions.

Impact of the Fellowship Hike on Research and Talent

Attracting Top Talent

Financial considerations often deter brilliant students from pursuing a PhD, especially when industry jobs offer higher initial salaries. IIIT-Delhi’s new fellowship directly addresses this concern. By offering a stipend competitive with industry roles, the institute sends a clear signal that research is valued. This move is expected to draw top-tier graduates from across the country who might otherwise have opted for corporate jobs or gone abroad.

Financial Security for Scholars

For those who do join, the generous stipend and grants mean PhD scholars can focus entirely on their research without external pressures. Bridging the financial gap between academia and industry ensures scholars are financially secure, allowing them to concentrate fully on groundbreaking work. This peace of mind can translate into more creativity, risk-taking in research, and potentially faster progress.

Boosting Research Output and Quality

With better support, scholars are more likely to undertake ambitious projects. The institute’s provision of travel funds and lab grants further enriches the research experience—students can present their work at prestigious conferences and collaborate with international peers, which raises the quality and visibility of their research. Over time, one can expect even more publications, patents, and technological breakthroughs emerging from IIIT-Delhi labs, driven by well-supported PhD candidates.

Strengthening the Research Ecosystem

The hike is also a strategic investment in India’s wider R&D ecosystem. By making academia a more attractive path, IIIT-Delhi contributes to a pipeline of well-trained researchers and future faculty. Graduates of IIIT-Delhi’s PhD program have gone on to join top universities and R&D roles in industry. Enhanced fellowships will only reinforce this trend by enabling more scholars to complete high-quality PhDs. In the long run, initiatives like this can help combat “brain drain” and ensure that India’s best minds contribute to domestic research and innovation.

IIIT-Delhi vs Other Institutions: A New Benchmark in PhD Stipends

It’s worth noting how IIIT-Delhi’s new fellowship compares with doctoral funding at other leading institutions, as this context highlights the significance of the move:

Conclusion: A Bright Opportunity for Future Researchers

IIIT-Delhi’s decision to hike the PhD fellowship to ₹60,000 per month—complemented by generous research grants and an enriching academic environment—is a game-changing opportunity for prospective PhD students. It reinforces the institute’s stature as a promising young research university willing to invest heavily in its students. For any aspiring researcher weighing where to pursue doctoral studies, IIIT-Delhi now makes a compelling case. Not only will you be joining an institute with a strong reputation and world-class facilities, but you’ll also be financially supported at a level that lets you truly focus on innovation and discovery.

With applications for the upcoming PhD intake now open, IIIT-Delhi is inviting aspiring researchers to apply and contribute to cutting-edge innovations in science and technology. If you are passionate about research and want to be part of an institution that values and rewards that passion, IIIT-Delhi should be high on your list. This fellowship hike is more than just a pay increase—it’s an invitation to join a thriving research community where your ideas can flourish, unencumbered by financial constraints.

Embark on your research journey with IIIT-Delhi, and you’ll be stepping into a future where your talent is nurtured and your contributions can truly make an impact. With unparalleled support and a commitment to excellence, IIIT-Delhi is lighting the way for the next generation of innovators and scholars. The question is: Are you ready to seize this opportunity?

Inspiring Others:
IIIT-Delhi’s fellowship hike may spur other institutions to follow suit, ensuring they do not lose out on top candidates. With global universities also increasing funding for doctoral students, Indian institutes are under pressure to stay competitive. For now, IIIT-Delhi clearly stands out for prioritizing researchers’ financial and professional growth in this manner.

Close to Premium Fellowships:
The only funding that clearly tops IIIT-Delhi’s offer in India would be highly competitive national schemes like the Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF), but that is available to a select number of scholars. By contrast, IIIT-Delhi’s near-PMRF level of support extends to all its PhD students based on admission criteria, not a separate competition.

Matching Industry Lure:
Few Indian universities provide such a high stipend to all PhD students. By elevating everyone’s fellowship, IIIT-Delhi narrows the gap between a PhD stipend and an entry-level tech job salary, demonstrating its commitment to making research a lucrative and respected career path.

Higher Than Standard Fellowships:
Most government-funded PhD programs in India offer stipends according to UGC/DST norms, which are typically lower than ₹60,000 per month. IIIT-Delhi’s initiative significantly surpasses these standard rates, making it a standout choice for those looking to pursue a PhD.

Additional Requirements:
Shortlisted candidates typically go through interviews (and/or written tests) where they are evaluated on subject knowledge and research aptitude. Once admitted, students are expected to maintain a good academic record (a minimum CGPA requirement to continue the fellowship) and contribute as teaching assistants as needed.

Statement of Purpose/Research Proposal:
All PhD applicants must submit a convincing Statement of Purpose (SoP) or research proposal outlining their research interests and goals. This helps IIIT-Delhi identify candidates with clear vision and alignment with the institute’s research strengths.

Entrance Exams:
Depending on the chosen discipline, applicants may need to have qualified competitive exams such as GATE, UGC-NET/JRF, CSIR-NET, etc., which is often followed by an interview process. Candidates with existing fellowships like UGC/CSIR JRF, DST INSPIRE, or DBT JRF are strongly encouraged to apply as well.

Strong Academic Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum CGPA requirement is typical. Exceptionally talented recent B.Tech/B.E. graduates with research aptitude are also encouraged to apply, even without a master’s. In fact, IIIT-Delhi follows global best practices by welcoming fresh B.Tech graduates; a master’s or GATE score is not mandatory for admission in certain disciplines.

CCMB PhD Admissions August 2025 – Official Details

The CSIR–Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad has announced its PhD Program admissions for the August 2025 session. Below are the official details of the admission notification, including eligibility requirements, important dates, application process, selection criteria, and other relevant information.

Eligibility Criteria

Academic Qualification: Applicants must have a Master’s degree in any branch of science (e.g., M.Sc. or equivalent) with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks for General/EWS candidates (and 50% for OBC, SC/ST, Third Gender, and PwD candidates). (Note: CCMB invites applications only from Indian citizens for the PhD program.)

Research Fellowship: A valid national-level research fellowship is mandatory for admission. Candidates should already hold a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or equivalent funding that is tenable at CSIR laboratories. Eligible fellowships include CSIR-JRF, UGC-JRF, DBT-JRF, ICMR-JRF, DST-INSPIRE fellowship, DBT-BET, RGNF, or any other equivalent fellowship for PhD. (Candidates who have only qualified for lectureship (LS/Assistant Professorship) in NET without JRF are not eligible to be shortlisted.)

AcSIR Registration: Applicants must first register with AcSIR (Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research) and select “CSIR-CCMB Ph.D. program” as a preferred choice before applying to CCMB. (AcSIR is the degree-awarding institute for CSIR lab PhD programs.)

Important Dates

Application Portal Opens: 4 March 2025 (Tuesday)

Application Deadline (Last Date to Apply): 14 April 2025 (Monday) up to 11:59 PM

Admit Card Release: 17 April 2025 (Thursday) – admit cards for the entrance exam emailed to eligible applicants.

Entrance Examination: 20 April 2025 (Sunday) – nationwide computer-based test (CBT) at designated centers (or online proctored).

Interviews (In-Person): Second–Third week of June 2025 (tentative) – on-site interviews at CCMB, Hyderabad for shortlisted candidates. Exact dates will be communicated to those who qualify the written test.

(Keep an eye on the CCMB website for any updates or changes to the schedule.)

Application Process

AcSIR Registration: Register on the AcSIR online admission portal and obtain an AcSIR Application Number (AAN). Choose “CSIR-CCMB Ph.D. program” as one of your preferred institutes during AcSIR registration.

Online Application to CCMB: Submit the CCMB PhD application online through the official portal by the deadline. The online application form is available at the CCMB admissions portal (Notification No. 02/2025). No hard copies are required; the entire process is online.

Application Fee: No application fee is charged for the CCMB PhD application.

Preferences: Within the application, candidates can indicate if they wish to be considered for CCMB’s main campus or the Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES).

Submission: Complete all required fields in the form (personal details, academic qualifications, fellowship details, etc.) and submit your application on or before 14 April 2025. After submission, keep a copy of the confirmation and note your application/registration number for future reference.

Selection Process

Screening & Admit Card: After the application deadline, CCMB will screen the online applications to verify eligibility (academic qualifications and valid fellowship). All candidates who meet the criteria will receive an admit card to appear for the Entrance Examination, which will be sent by 17 April 2025.

Written Entrance Exam: A Computer-Based Test (CBT) will be conducted on 20 April 2025 at the candidate's chosen exam centre (or as a remote-proctored online test for those who opt).

Shortlisting for Interview: Performance in the written test will be used to shortlist candidates for the next stage. Only candidates who qualify the CBT and hold a valid fellowship for PhD will be invited for the interviews.

Interview Rounds: Shortlisted candidates will be called to CCMB, Hyderabad for in-person interviews in the 2nd or 3rd week of June 2025. The interview process consists of two rounds spread over two days.

Final Selection: Candidates who excel in both interview rounds (preliminary and final) will be selected for admission to the PhD program. The final selection list will be based on combined performance in the written test and interviews, as well as fulfillment of all eligibility requirements.

Joining: The expected joining/reporting time for the new PhD batch is August 2025.

Fellowship and Stipend Details

Mandatory Fellowship: CCMB does not provide direct fellowships for the PhD program; instead, having an external fellowship is compulsory for admission.

Stipend Support: Candidates admitted to the PhD program will receive a stipend from their respective fellowship. For example, the CSIR-UGC JRF fellowship currently provides a stipend of ₹37,000 per month for the first two years as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF), and upon upgradation to Senior Research Fellow (SRF), the stipend increases to ₹42,000 per month from the 3rd year onward. Similar terms apply for other fellowships (UGC, DBT, ICMR, etc.), typically including an annual contingency grant and House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per government norms.

Tenure: The fellowships are generally tenable for 5 years, subject to satisfactory progress (with periodic reviews).

Note: It is the student’s responsibility to activate and maintain their fellowship status.

Central Institutes in India with Open PhD Admissions in Science (March 2025) 

(Updated on 14 March 2025)

Below is a list of centrally funded institutes/universities currently accepting PhD applications in science disciplines, along with key details for each:

Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore

• Last Date to Apply: March 23, 2025​(for the session starting August 2025).
  
• Direct Application Link: IISc Online Admissions Portal – admissions.iisc.ac.in​.

iisc.ac.in

• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have at least a second-class (minimum 50–60% marks, as per category) in a relevant qualifying degree. For science PhD programs, this typically means a Master’s degree in Science or a related field. In addition, a valid national entrance exam qualification (e.g., GATE or UGC/CSIR NET-JRF) is mandatory for candidates in science disciplines. (Candidates with certain exceptional qualifications, such as a 4-year bachelor’s from an IIT with high CGPA, may have different requirements as per IISc norms.)

IIT Madras (Chennai) – July 2025 PhD Admissions

• Last Date to Apply: April 3, 2025 (5:00 PM)​. (The original deadline of March 28, 2025 was extended to April 3, 2025.)

research.iitm.ac.in

• Direct Application Link: IIT Madras Research Admissions Portal – research.iitm.ac.in​.
  
• Eligibility Criteria: For PhD programs in science departments at IIT Madras, candidates should have a Master’s degree in the relevant science discipline with first-class academic record. Additionally, they must have qualified a national level exam – for example, a valid GATE score or UGC/CSIR-JRF/NET qualification (or other equivalent fellowship) is required​​. (Notably, applicants with an integrated BS-MS from an IIT/IISER with CGPA ≥8.0 or an MSc from an IIT with ≥8.0 CGPA may be exempted from the exam requirement​.)

IIT Indore – PhD Admissions Autumn 2025

• Last Date to Apply: March 21, 2025​for major science departments (Autumn 2025 intake).

• Direct Application Link: IIT Indore PhD Admission Portal – academic.iiti.ac.in/phdadvt.php (department-wise application links are provided on the IIT Indore admissions page​).

academic.iiti.ac.in

• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants should have a Master’s degree in the relevant Science field with first-class (as per institute norms). They must also have a valid GATE score or a qualifying JRF/NET exam certificate (UGC/CSIR or equivalent national fellowship) in the relevant subject​. Bachelor’s degree holders in Engineering/Technology with exceptional academic record and a valid GATE may also be eligible in certain cases, as per IIT Indore’s PhD guidelines.

academic.iiti.ac.in

IISER Bhopal – PhD Program (August 2025 Semester)

• Last Date to Apply: April 15, 2025​(for the semester commencing August 2025).

• Direct Application Link: IISER Bhopal PhD Application Portal – phdadmission.iiserb.ac.in​.

iiserb.ac.in

• Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline (Science/Engineering) with a minimum of 60% marks (or 7.0 CGPA) in the qualifying degree​. In addition, they need to qualify at least one national level exam – e.g., a valid GATE score, or selection in UGC/CSIR-NET (JRF or Lectureship), JEST, NBHM, etc.​. (Exceptional students from IITs/IISERs with high CGPA in bachelor’s or master’s programs may have some exam requirements waived as per institute norms.)

Central University of Jharkhand (CUJ), Ranchi

• Last Date to Apply: March 21, 2025​.
• Direct Application Link: CUJ PhD Admission Portal – cuj.ac.in/PHD-2024.php (Samarth online application portal open from 3rd Mar to 21st Mar 2025)​

cuj.ac.in

• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have qualified a national eligibility test relevant to their field. Specifically, a valid UGC/CSIR-NET qualification (categories 1 or 2 for JRF/Lectureship) or a valid GATE score (for engineering/allied science fields) is required​​. Non-NET/GATE candidates are NOT eligible for PhD admission at CUJ​. (The NET score must be from recent UGC/CSIR-NET cycles as specified in the CUJ admission notice.)

Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) – August 2025 Session

• Last Date to Apply: April 14, 2025​(for PhD programs starting in August 2025; application is currently open for the science and engineering PhD streams).

• Direct Application Link: AcSIR Online Admission Portal – acsir.emli.in (accessible via the AcSIR admissions page​; select “Ph.D (Sciences)” or relevant program and proceed to apply).

acsir.res.in

• Eligibility Criteria: A Master’s degree in Science or Engineering in a relevant area with a strong academic record is required. Applicants must also have a valid national-level fellowship or entrance exam qualification, such as UGC/CSIR-JRF, NET (Lectureship), GATE, GPAT, etc., or an equivalent research fellowship​. (Candidates who already hold JRF/SRF positions at CSIR labs or similar institutions can apply. AcSIR’s affiliated institutes may have additional shortlisting criteria like interviews, as admissions are conducted through CSIR and ICMR research centers​.)