- The DBT-JRF Programme was launched in 2004 to support Ph.D. research in biotechnology and life sciences.
- Fellows receive ₹37,000 per month for the first two years and ₹42,000 per month after successful SRF upgradation.
- Eligible fellows can receive ₹30,000 per year as contingency assistance and applicable HRA.
- BET 2026 was the last standalone examination, with the Joint CSIR–UGC–DBT JRF-NET route introduced from December 2026
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), Department of Biotechnology, Government of India
- Phone: +91-129-2848800
- Email: jrf.dbt@rcb.res.in
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Summary of the Scheme
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| Name of Scheme | DBT Junior Research Fellowship Programme (DBT-JRF) |
| Launch Year | 2004 |
| Benefits | ₹37,000 per month for the first 2 years, ₹42,000 per month for the remaining 3 years after SRF upgradation, ₹30,000 annual contingency, and applicable HRA. |
| Beneficiary | Eligible Indian citizens pursuing full-time Ph.D. research in biotechnology and life sciences. |
| Nodal Agency | Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), through the DBT-HRD Project and Management Unit. |
| Subscription | Subscribe here to get Update Regarding Scheme |
| Mode of Apply | Online |
DBT Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF) Programme
A Ph.D. in biotechnology or life sciences takes years of focused research, and funding is often the biggest worry. The DBT Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF) Programme, launched in 2004 by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, supports eligible Indian students pursuing full-time Ph.D. research with a monthly stipend for up to five years. It is managed by the DBT-HRD Project and Management Unit at the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), Faridabad.
Latest Update
BET 2026 was the last standalone Biotechnology Eligibility Test. From December 2026, DBT-JRF candidates apply through the Joint CSIR-UGC-DBT JRF-NET examination. Applicants should follow the current NTA bulletin and DBT notices, as selection and fellowship rules for this route may differ from the old BET system.
Key Benefits
| Benefit | Amount / Duration |
|---|---|
| Junior Research Fellow (JRF) | ₹37,000 per month for the first two years |
| Senior Research Fellow (SRF) | ₹42,000 per month for the remaining three years |
| Contingency grant | ₹30,000 per year (pro-rata) |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | As per government rules, if institutional accommodation is not provided |
| Maximum duration | Five years |
- The SRF amount is not automatic. It depends on satisfactory progress and assessment by a Three Member Assessment Committee.
- Fellows can do their Ph.D. at any recognised university or research institution in India.
- The fellowship is paid to the host institution’s bank account, not directly to the fellow.
Who Can Apply?
- Bona fide Indian citizens residing in India
- Candidates pursuing a full-time Ph.D. in biotechnology, life sciences, or allied disciplines
Joint CSIR-UGC-DBT JRF-NET (December 2026):
- Master’s degree with at least 55% (General/EWS) or 50% (OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD, Third Gender)
- Or a four-year bachelor’s degree, generally with at least 75% (5% relaxation for eligible categories)
- Maximum age for JRF: 30 years as of 1 December 2026, with up to five years’ relaxation for eligible categories
- Final-year or result-awaited candidates should check the bulletin for conditions and deadlines
Under the earlier BET system, Category-I candidates received the DBT-JRF fellowship, while Category-II candidates did not, though they could be considered for DBT-sponsored project positions.
Documents Required
For the award letter:
- Examination admit card and scorecard
- Qualifying degree certificate and final marksheet
- Recent photograph and signature
- Date of birth proof (such as SSC certificate or Aadhaar)
- Category certificate (EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST or differently-abled), if applicable
To activate the fellowship:
- DBT-JRF award letter
- Ph.D. enrolment or joining letter on institute letterhead
- First page of bank passbook or statement
- Institution’s NEFT/RTGS mandate form
- Hostel allotment proof or HRA declaration
How to Apply
Applications are online.
- Register on the Joint CSIR-UGC NET portal for the December 2026 cycle.
- Fill in the form and select subject code 703, Life Sciences and Bio-Technology.
- Upload documents and pay the fee: General ₹1,150; EWS and OBC-NCL ₹600; SC, ST, PwD and Third Gender ₹325.
- Appear for the exam. The exam dates are 19, 22 and 27 December 2026. Registration ran from 7 October to 5 November 2026, with a late-fee window of 6 to 9 November 2026, so check the official site for the current status.
- Check results and DBT selection notices. Qualifying does not guarantee a DBT-JRF fellowship, and the number of DBT fellowships for this cycle has not been officially announced.
- Apply for the award letter on the DBT-JRF portal if selected.
- Secure Ph.D. admission and submit documents to activate the fellowship.
- Complete progress reviews. The host institution claims and pays the fellowship, and the JRF to SRF upgrade is reviewed after two years.
Helpful Tips
- Under BET rules, Category-I awardees had to register for a Ph.D. within two years of the award letter. Check your own award instructions for the deadline that applies to you.
- Incorrect information or missing documents can lead to rejection of the award letter.
- Keep your award letter, enrolment documents, and payment records safe for future verification.
Contact
DBT-HRD Project & Management Unit, Regional Centre for Biotechnology
Phone: +91-129-2848800
Email: jrf.dbt@rcb.res.in
For examination queries, use the contact details on the official CSIR-UGC NET website.