Deadline: 17-Feb-2026
The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) National Postdoctoral Fellowship (NPDF) supports motivated young researchers to pursue frontier research in science and engineering. Fellowships provide ₹80,000/month plus HRA, an annual research grant of ₹2 lakh, and overheads of ₹1 lakh, for a duration of two years. Applicants must hold or have submitted a Ph.D., M.D., or M.S., be under 35 years of age, and adhere to mentor supervision limits.
Overview
The ANRF-NPDF is designed to identify and support talented young researchers in science and engineering for advanced postdoctoral research. The program encourages independent research in frontier areas, providing both financial support and mentoring to facilitate innovation and academic excellence.
Funding Details
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Monthly Fellowship: ₹80,000 + HRA
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Annual Research Grant: ₹2,00,000
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Annual Overheads: ₹1,00,000
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Duration: 2 years
Eligibility Criteria
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Applicants must have obtained a Ph.D., M.D., or M.S., or have submitted their thesis
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Upper age limit: 35 years at the time of application
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Post-Ph.D. limit: Applicants must apply within five years of their viva-voce examination
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Fellows cannot work with their guide or co-guide, or in the same department or institution where they earned their degree
Mentor & Supervision Rules
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Each mentor can submit a maximum of two applications per call
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A mentor cannot supervise more than two ANRF-NPDF fellows at any time
Application Process
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Prepare a research proposal in frontier areas of science and engineering
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Submit the application through the ANRF online portal
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Ensure adherence to age, degree, and mentor supervision eligibility criteria
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Submit before the deadline: 17 February 2026
Key Considerations & Tips
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Proposals should focus on original, high-impact research
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Clearly outline objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes
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Select a mentor who meets ANRF supervision limits and can provide strong guidance
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Avoid proposing work at the same institution or department where the Ph.D. was earned
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can candidates who have submitted but not defended their Ph.D. apply?
Yes, candidates who have submitted their thesis are eligible.
Q2: Can a fellow continue research at the same institution where they earned their Ph.D.?
No, fellows must move to a different institution or department.
Q3: Is there an age relaxation?
No, the upper age limit is 35 years at the time of application.
Q4: How many applications can a mentor submit?
A mentor may submit up to two applications per call and supervise no more than two ANRF-NPDF fellows at any time.
Q5: What is the total funding for a fellow per year?
₹3,80,000 per year (₹80,000/month stipend + ₹2 lakh research grant + ₹1 lakh overheads).
Q6: Can the fellowship be extended beyond 2 years?
No, the total duration is strictly two years.
Conclusion
The ANRF-NPDF 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for young researchers in India to advance frontier research in science and engineering, gain mentoring, and secure substantial financial support. Early application and careful selection of research focus and mentor are crucial for success.
For more information, visit ANRF.