The Vikram Sarabhai Postdoctoral Fellowship (VISHWAS) is a prestigious initiative launched by the Department of Space, Ministry of Science and Technology through the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL). It aims to support exceptional young Indian researchers in conducting cutting-edge postdoctoral research in areas of fundamental science with societal relevance, echoing the vision of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space program.
Short Summary
• Scheme Name: Vikram Sarabhai Postdoctoral Fellowship (VISHWAS)
• Organization: Physical Research Laboratory (PRL)
• Launched By: Department of Space, Ministry of Science and Technology
• Target Group: Young PhD holders with strong research potential
• Number of Fellowships: 3
• Fellowship Amount: ₹1,00,000 per month + HRA and benefits
• Duration: Initially 2 years (extendable by 1 year)
• Mode of Application: Online via PRL Website
Fellowship Benefits
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fellowship | ₹1,00,000/- |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | As per PRL/DOS rules |
| Other Facilities | Provided as per PRL norms |
| Tenure | Up to 2 years + 1 year extension if justified |
| Total Positions | 3 fellowships per cycle |
Eligibility Criteria
• Applicant must be an Indian national
• PhD awarded within the last 4 years (as of application deadline)
• Age must be 35 years or below
• Should have a first-class academic record throughout
• Must submit a detailed research proposal aligned with PRL’s research areas
• Preference given to candidates seeking to collaborate with PRL faculty members
Application Process
Online Application Steps
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Visit the PRL Official Website
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Go to the “Opportunities” section and select “Job Vacancies & Fellowship Programs”
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Choose “Vikram Sarabhai Postdoctoral Fellowship (VISHWAS)”
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Fill out the online form with all required academic and personal details
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Upload scanned documents and submit the application
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Note the application ID received for future correspondence
Important: Recommendation letters from three non-PRL referees must be emailed directly to:
📧 [email protected]
Documents Required
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Research Proposal (as per PRL format)
• List of published/accepted papers (refereed journals/conferences)
• Details of PhD supervisor and referees
• Details of collaborating PRL faculty (if applicable)
Selection Process
• Shortlisting will be based on academic excellence and strength of the research proposal
• Interviews will be conducted either online or in person
• Final selection made by PDF Committee at PRL
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Vikram Sarabhai Postdoctoral Fellowship (VISHWAS)?
It is a postdoctoral fellowship offering financial support to young PhD holders to pursue research in fundamental science. - Who is eligible to apply?
Indian nationals with a PhD awarded within the last four years and under 35 years of age. - What is the fellowship amount?
₹1,00,000 per month, plus HRA and other benefits as per PRL/DOS rules. - What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts for up to 2 years, with a possible extension for one more year based on justification. - How many fellowships are available?
Three fellowships are awarded annually. - Can the fellowship be extended beyond 2 years?
Yes, if justified and approved, it can be extended by one more year. - How will the selection process work?
Candidates will be shortlisted based on academic credentials, research proposal, and recommendation letters. Shortlisted candidates will undergo an interview. - When will the interview take place?
The interview will be conducted in June/July . - What research areas does the fellowship cover?
Research areas related to fundamental science with societal implications, as pursued by PRL. - Can I apply if my PhD is from a non-Indian university?
Yes, as long as the PhD was awarded within the last four years. - How will I know if I am shortlisted for the interview?
Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email after the shortlisting process.