India Unveils Array of Fellowships, Grants, and Positions

India’s leading institutions and government bodies are actively seeking talent through various calls for applications for fellowships, research grants, and key positions. These opportunities span diverse fields, from scientific research and urban studies to administrative roles, aiming to foster innovation, academic excellence, and national development.

Diverse Opportunities Across Sectors

Several prominent organizations have announced significant opportunities:

National Law School of India University (NLSIU): NLSIU is recruiting for multiple positions, including a Development Officer, Manager – Admissions, Project Manager for the Writing Urban India Collective Project, and a Writing Urban India Fellowship. These roles support the university’s academic and administrative functions, with a focus on urban studies and institutional development.
Department of Biotechnology (DBT): The DBT is inviting applications for the Ramalingaswami Re-Entry Fellowship 2025, a prestigious scheme for Indian nationals working overseas to return and contribute to scientific research in India. Additionally, the DBT has opened calls for applications under the DBT-RA Biotechnology & Life Sciences 2024-25.
Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST): The JST’s LOTUS Programme has an open call for applications for FY2025, specifically for Japanese institutions collaborating with Indian research institutions. This program aims to facilitate joint research and provide fellowship opportunities for Indian graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.

Key Takeaways

Ramalingaswami Re-Entry Fellowship: This fellowship targets Indian nationals with a Ph.D./M.D. or equivalent in life sciences, agriculture, bioinformatics, or allied areas, with at least three years of postdoctoral research experience abroad. The deadline for applications is February 28, 2025.
NLSIU Positions:
- Project Manager, Writing Urban India Collective Project: A full-time contractual role for 12 months, starting September 2024. Requires a Master’s degree in social sciences and at least two years of project management experience. Deadline: September 11, 2024.
- Development Officer: A permanent position requiring a graduate degree and a minimum of eight years of overall work experience, with at least four years in fundraising or philanthropic initiatives. Deadline: June 9, 2025.
- Manager – Admissions: A permanent position requiring a graduate degree and at least five years of overall work experience, with three years in a similar role. Deadline: April 8, 2025.
JST LOTUS Programme: Applications are accepted only from Japanese institutions, with a submission deadline of August 29, 2024. The program aims to support approximately 270 fellowship candidates.

These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to strengthening its research ecosystem, attracting top talent, and fostering international collaborations.