IISc Research Fellowship 2026: Eligibility, Stipend, How to Apply, Dates

Introduction

IISc research fellowships place students in leading labs across science and engineering. This guide outlines eligibility, expected timelines, funding reality, and application steps for 2026. Dates are Expected/Indicative; check the target department’s notice.

About the Organization / Institute

Indian Institute of Science is India’s premier research university. Labs span physics, chemistry, biology, materials, engineering, and computation. Interns work with faculty or senior researchers on scoped projects.

Overview of the Research Fellowship Programme

Engagements are typically 8–12 weeks, on-site in Bengaluru. Selection depends on mentor availability and domain fit. Outcomes include a project report/presentation; some labs offer project trainee roles with longer spans.

Research Domains / Areas Offered

• Physics, materials, and nanoscience
• Chemistry and chemical engineering
• Biology, bioengineering, and computational biology
• Computer science, AI/ML, systems
• Electrical/electronics: communications, signal processing, controls
• Mechanical/aerospace: fluid/structures, robotics

Eligibility Criteria

• 3rd/4th year UG or PG in relevant fields
• Strong CGPA (Expected/Indicative: 7.5–8.0+)
• Domain projects aligned to the host lab
• On-site availability for full duration

Who Should Apply

Students with clear domain portfolios—code, experiments, simulations, or papers—mapped to a specific lab. Generic resumes perform poorly; lab-aligned artifacts and concise intent letters win.

Stipend & Funding

• Expected/Indicative: Limited funded seats; many are certificate-only.
• Accommodation: Campus/hostel options are limited; plan early.
• Travel: Usually self-funded.

Duration & Timeline

• Duration: 8–12 weeks (May–Aug window)
• Application window: Jan–early Mar 2026 (varies by department)
• Confirmations: Rolling, mentor-dependent

Selection Process

1. Identify target labs; review recent papers.
2. Send CV, transcript, and a lab-specific statement to faculty/department per instructions.
3. Some labs require NOC/official letters.
4. Shortlisting and possible quick task/interview.
5. Acceptance with joining and access steps.

How to Apply (step-by-step)

1. Pick 2–3 labs; map your artifacts to their current work.
2. Draft a 200–300 word SOP with proposed 8–12 week deliverable.
3. Prepare CV, transcript, and links to code/data/papers.
4. Email faculty/department or use official portal if available.
5. Follow up once after 7–10 days with a small improvement.
6. On acceptance, complete ID/NOC and plan accommodation.

Documents Required

• CV (one page)
• Transcript
• Lab-specific SOP/proposal
• NOC/request letter if asked
• ID proof, photo

Competition Level / Acceptance Reality

Selective; lab bandwidth is the limiter. Domain fit and proof of execution matter more than generic interest. Early, precise outreach wins.

Past Year Insights (Expected/Indicative)

• Labs favored candidates referencing recent publications.
• Reproducible code/experiments improved responses.
• Hostel availability was tight; many arranged private stays.

FAQs

1. Is the fellowship paid? Expected/Indicative: Limited stipends; many roles are certificate-only.

2. Is remote allowed? Generally no; on-site preferred for lab access.

3. What CGPA helps? 7.5–8.0+ common among selectees; strong projects can offset.

4. Do I need a NOC? Some departments request it; keep one ready.

5. Can I contact faculty directly? Yes, if the department permits; stay concise and lab-specific.

6. How long is the program? 8–12 weeks typical.

7. Is accommodation provided? Limited; plan early for private options if needed.

8. Can the stint be extended? Possible with mentor approval and admin clearance.

Final Advice for Applicants

Lead with lab-fit, show evidence, and apply early. Prepare NOC, plan housing, and send concise follow-ups with real improvements.