Deadline: 31-Jul-2026
The Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (CEFIPRA) has opened applications for the Collaborative Scientific Research Programme (CSRP) to support high-quality Indo-French research collaborations in basic and applied sciences. The programme funds joint projects between Indian and French researchers across fields such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, biotechnology, environmental sciences, computational sciences, and water research.
Projects can receive funding of up to €220,000 for the full project duration, covering manpower, travel, fellowships, recurring expenses, and limited equipment support. The programme is open to permanent researchers from Indian and French universities or R&D institutions.
What Is the Collaborative Scientific Research Programme?
The CSRP is a joint Indo-French research funding initiative managed by CEFIPRA to strengthen scientific collaboration between India and France.
The programme supports:
- Advanced scientific research
- Bilateral research partnerships
- Knowledge exchange
- Joint innovation in science and technology
- Research mobility and collaboration
Research Areas Supported
Eligible research fields include:
- Pure and Applied Mathematics
- Computational Sciences
- Life and Health Sciences
- Pure and Applied Physics
- Pure and Applied Chemistry
- Earth and Planetary Science
- Materials Science
- Environmental Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Water Research
Funding Details
Maximum Grant Amount
- Up to €220,000 per project
- Covers both Indian and French partners
- Projects exceeding the limit will not be considered
Support for Indian Researchers
Funding may include:
- JRF and SRF support
- Research Associates and Project Associates
- Master’s student support
- Recurring project expenses
- Domestic and international travel
- Minor equipment support
Equipment support:
- Maximum 10% of approved budget
- Capped at €20,000
Support for French Laboratories
Funding includes:
- PhD fellowship: €1,870 per month for up to 36 months
- Postdoctoral fellowship: €2,400 per month
- Travel allowance
- University fees
- Residence permit fees
- Campus France management fees
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Researchers with permanent positions
- Indian universities and R&D institutions
- French universities and research institutions
- Principal Collaborators (PCs)
- Joint Collaborators (JCs)
Applicants must:
- Meet national grant eligibility rules
- Meet retirement age requirements
- Have an ORCID or ResearcherID
Collaboration Requirements
Each proposal must include:
- At least one Principal Collaborator from India
- At least one Principal Collaborator from France
Additional rules:
- Only one Co-Principal Investigator allowed on each side from the same institution
- Additional Co-PIs from other institutions may participate without extra CEFIPRA funding
Who Is Not Eligible?
The following applicants cannot apply:
- Researchers currently involved in an ongoing CSRP project
- Scientists within the five-year cooling-off period after completing a CSRP project
- Researchers who have already implemented three CEFIPRA projects as Principal Collaborator
How to Apply
- Build an Indo-French research collaboration team.
- Select a project within eligible scientific disciplines.
- Prepare a joint research proposal and budget.
- Ensure ORCID or ResearcherID registration.
- Confirm compliance with CEFIPRA eligibility rules.
- Submit the proposal before the application deadline.
Tips for Applicants
- Develop strong bilateral research collaboration plans.
- Clearly explain scientific innovation and impact.
- Prepare realistic budgets within the €220,000 limit.
- Include clear research outcomes and timelines.
- Ensure all eligibility conditions are met before submission.
FAQ
What is the maximum funding available?
Projects can receive up to €220,000 for the full project duration.
Who can apply?
Permanent researchers from Indian and French universities or R&D institutions.
Which fields are supported?
Fields include mathematics, physics, chemistry, biotechnology, environmental sciences, computational sciences, and water research.
Is ORCID mandatory?
Yes. ORCID or ResearcherID is required for proposal submission.
Can current CSRP project holders apply?
No. Researchers already involved in an ongoing CSRP project are not eligible.
Conclusion
The CEFIPRA Collaborative Scientific Research Programme offers major funding opportunities for Indo-French scientific collaboration across advanced research fields. The programme supports innovation, mobility, and long-term research partnerships between India and France through competitive joint research grants.
For more information, visit CEFIPRA.