The Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) has invited applications for the Vikram Sarabhai Postdoctoral Fellowship, known as VISHWAS, aimed at young researchers pursuing fundamental science with societal relevance. The fellowship honors the vision of Prof. Vikram Sarabhai and supports disruptive and advanced research aligned with PRL's scientific areas.
Fellowship Details and Benefits
Selected fellows will receive a monthly scholarship of Rs 1 lakh along with HRA and other facilities under PRL and Department of Space rules. PRL has announced three fellowship positions. The fellowship is initially awarded for two years, with annual reviews for renewal. Candidates may also receive a one-year extension after approval and justification.
Eligibility Criteria and Selection Process
Indian nationals holding a PhD within four years of the award of their degree can apply. Applicants must be below 35 years of age on the last application date and should have maintained first-class academic records throughout their studies. Researchers already working as PDFs at PRL are not eligible. Shortlisting is based on academic credentials, research proposals, and recommendations from three referees who are not part of PRL faculty. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews online or in person after all required documents and recommendations are received.
Application Process and Documents Required
Applicants must complete online registration, activate their account through an email link, and submit personal, academic, employment, and publication details via the application portal. Referee information must be submitted online, following which recommendation requests are generated automatically. Candidates must upload the abstract of their PhD thesis, publication details, and a research proposal prepared in consultation with a proposed PRL supervisor. The proposal must include motivation, objectives, methodology, expected outcome, and a first-year timeline.
Research Proposal Requirements and Timelines
The research proposal should outline the introduction, background, methodology, experience relevant to the proposed work, and expected outcomes. Applicants must also provide publication details from peer-reviewed journals and ongoing work under review. Candidates employed with government departments, public sector undertakings, or autonomous bodies must produce a No Objection Certificate during the interview process at PRL headquarters.
