INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship 2025
Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India — Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE)
Introduction
The INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship (IFF) supports outstanding doctorates (27–32 years; relaxations applicable) to pursue independent research for 5 years across basic and applied sciences, including engineering, medicine, agriculture, veterinary sciences, and translational research in S&T. Applications for 2025 are invited via the INSPIRE web portal.
Eligibility
- Citizenship & Qualification: Indian citizens/PIO with a Ph.D. in science, mathematics, engineering, pharmacy, medicine, or agriculture from any recognized university.
- Academic Performance: Minimum 60% (or equivalent CGPA) from Class 12 onward.
- Thesis Submitted: Candidates awaiting Ph.D. award are eligible; selection is confirmed after degree award.
- Age Limit (as on 1 Jan 2025): General: ≤32 years; SC/ST/Women: ≤37 years; Persons with benchmark disability (≥40%): ≤42 years.
- Research Output: Publications in highly reputed journals. For Translational Research in S&T, at least two patents filed or one granted.
- Host for Translational Research: Must be S&T institutions with Central/State-supported Technology Business Incubators (TBIs).
- Employment Status: Not eligible if holding a permanent academic/research position.
- Contractual Roles: May apply; if selected, must resign before joining IFF. If selected for a regular position after applying, only the Research Grant is admissible.
Desirable: Top 1% in Class 12, IIT-JEE/NEET rank holders, or 1st rank at graduation/postgraduation university exams.
Fellowship & Research Grant
- Fellowship: ₹1,25,000 per month; annual increment ₹2,000; taxable as per IT Act.
- Research Grant: ₹7,00,000 per year for 5 years.
- Tenure: Up to 5 years; no concurrent fellowships from multiple sources during tenure.
Important Dates
| Event | Date & Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Portal opens for applications | 15 August 2025 |
| Application deadline | 14 September 2025, 23:59 hrs |
How to Apply
- Apply online only via the INSPIRE web portal; register and complete the application form.
- Read the guidelines and FAQs on the portal before submission.
- Upload all required documents clearly and correctly; incomplete/improper submissions are liable to rejection.
- After submission, save/print your application for records; no hard copies to be sent by post.
- Use your own valid personal email and WhatsApp number (institutional emails not permitted). Application status will be shared to the registered email; check status by logging in.
- Do not submit more than one application; ensure all details are correct before final submission.
Documents Required
| Document | Format | Max Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport size photograph | JPEG | 50 KB | Mandatory |
| Class X marksheet/certificate (Date of Birth proof) | 1 MB | Mandatory | |
| Mark sheets of 12th, UG & PG programmes | 1 MB | Mandatory | |
| Ph.D. degree certificate or thesis submission proof | 1 MB | Thesis submission date must be on/before the application deadline | |
| Community/Caste certificate (if applicable) | 1 MB | SC/ST only | |
| Proof of disability | 1 MB | Persons with benchmark disability | |
| Appointment letter (if employed) | 1 MB | For current employment |
Important Notes
- For Translational Research in S&T, choose host institutions with Central/State-supported TBIs for deep-tech mentoring.
- Availing concurrent fellowships from more than one source during IFF tenure is not permitted.
- Legal jurisdiction for disputes: Courts/Tribunals/Forums in Delhi only.
Support
Email: inspire.prog-dst@nic.in | Phone: 0124-6690020, 0124-6690021
