The Ramanujan Fellowship 2025 is a high-value initiative by the Government of India to encourage outstanding Indian researchers working abroad to return and contribute to India’s scientific ecosystem. Administered by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), this fellowship promotes innovation, world-class research, and scientific excellence within India.
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Eligibility criteria for Ramanujan Fellowship:
Applicants must meet the following conditions to apply for the Ramanujan Fellowship in India 2025:
- Must be below 40 years of age at the time of nomination.
- Hold a Ph.D. in Science/Engineering, a Master’s in Engineering/Technology, or an M.D. in Medicine.
- Must have a proven record of high-quality research, demonstrated by publications, patents, or scientific awards.
- Must be working abroad in a recognized research or academic institution at the time of nomination.
- Should not hold any permanent, tenure-track, or contractual position in India.
- The nomination must not come from the institute where the candidate earned their Ph.D.
Benefits for Ramanujan Fellowship:
The Ramanujan Fellowship in India 2025 provides competitive financial support:
- ₹1,35,000 per month (including Housing Rent Allowance).
- ₹7,00,000 per year for research expenses (consumables, staff, travel, etc.).
- ₹60,000 per annum as institutional overhead for the host institute.
- The fellowship is taxable, and statutory deductions as per Indian tax law will apply.
- Fellows may also apply for additional research grants through other Indian funding agencies.
Duration and commencement of fellowship:
- The fellowship has a fixed duration of five years and is non-extendable.
- Fellows must join their Indian host institution within six months of receiving the award letter.
- Nominations are open throughout the year, with no specific deadline.
Learning Approach:
The Ramanujan Fellowship is designed to support outstanding scientists in pursuing independent and innovative research in India. Fellows under the Ramanujan Fellowship are encouraged to explore pioneering scientific questions, engage in meaningful collaborations, and publish their findings in reputed international journals. They are also expected to mentor young researchers, thereby strengthening India’s research ecosystem. The host institution will provide comprehensive support—including access to advanced laboratories, research infrastructure, and administrative assistance—to ensure a productive academic environment. The Ramanujan Fellowship aims to empower researchers to make significant contributions to science while fostering future scientific leadership in the country.
Application Procedure:
To apply for the Ramanujan Fellowship 2025, follow these steps:
- Register at the SERB online portal: www.serbonline.in.
- Fill in personal and academic details on your user profile.
- Upload the nomination form, endorsed by the host institution.
- Upload a concise research proposal (max 5 pages) in PDF format.
- Ensure all documents are in order and submit your application for review.
Last Date:
Ramanujan Fellowship is open throughout the year, with no fixed deadline for submission.
Selection Process:
- Candidates must be nominated by an eligible Indian academic or research institution.
- Applications are evaluated by a Search-cum-Selection Committee appointed by SERB.
- The committee assesses the applicant’s academic excellence, professional contributions, and the quality of the research proposal.
- Selection decisions are made periodically and are communicated via official channels.
Documents Required:
- Nomination letter from the host institution.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae.
- Detailed research proposal.
- Proof of current employment abroad.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC), if required, from the current employer.
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Contact Details:
- Program Coordinator: Dr. Shashi Bhushan Pandey, Scientist G
- Program Officer: Dr. Jacob V.V., Scientific Consultant
- Email: serb@serb.gov.in
- Phone: +91-11-26552216
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is eligible for the Ramanujan Fellowship in India 2025?
A1: The fellowship is open to Indian scientists and engineers currently working abroad in research institutions or universities. Applicants must be under the age of 40 at the time of nomination and must not hold a permanent position in any Indian organization. The candidate should possess a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent qualification, and have demonstrated research excellence through publications, patents, or innovations. Those wishing to return to India and set up their independent research agenda are ideal candidates.
Q2: Can I apply if I’m already working in India?
A2: Unfortunately, no. One of the core eligibility criteria for the Ramanujan Fellowship is that the candidate must not be working in India at the time of application. The fellowship aims specifically to attract top-tier talent back to India from abroad. Therefore, applicants already holding any type of academic or research position in India—be it permanent, temporary, or contractual—are ineligible.
Q3: What is the duration of the Ramanujan Fellowship?
A3: The fellowship is offered for a fixed duration of five years. This term is non-renewable and non-extendable, regardless of circumstances. Fellows are expected to establish or continue their independent research during this period. While this timeline offers stability and structure, it also encourages fellows to pursue results-oriented research that contributes to India’s scientific progress.
Q4: Is the fellowship taxable under Indian law?
A4: Yes, the fellowship amount is subject to taxation in accordance with Indian income tax laws. Although the ₹1,35,000 per month stipend includes housing rent allowance, it is treated as income and taxed appropriately. Fellows are encouraged to consult with the accounts department of the host institution or a professional tax advisor to ensure full compliance with local tax regulations and avoid any financial surprises.
Q5: Can I apply for other research grants during the fellowship period?
A5: Yes, fellows are encouraged to apply for additional research funding during their tenure. In fact, the fellowship’s structure allows awardees to independently apply for project-based grants from government bodies like SERB, DBT, DST, and CSIR. This not only enhances their research capabilities but also helps integrate them more deeply into the Indian academic ecosystem.
Q6: Can I choose any institution in India as my host?
A6: Yes, but the host institution must be a recognized Indian academic or research institution capable of supporting high-level scientific research. Candidates are encouraged to discuss their research goals with the host institution beforehand and secure formal acceptance. Institutions offering modern labs, collaborative opportunities, and strong research support are ideal choices.
Q7: What should be included in the research proposal?
A7: The proposal should clearly outline the research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. It should also describe how the research aligns with national priorities or emerging global scientific challenges. A well-structured, innovative, and feasible research plan greatly increases the chances of selection. Limit the document to 5 pages and make it reader-friendly for reviewers.
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