📋 Complete Advertisement & Guidelines
DBT Research Associateship (DBT-RA) Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for Biotechnology & Life Sciences
Golden Opportunity for PhD Holders: The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, has released the official notification for the DBT-Research Associateship (DBT-RA) for 2025-26. This is a premier Sarkari Naukri opportunity for candidates holding Ph.D. degrees in Science, Engineering, or Medicine to pursue cutting-edge research in frontier areas.
Overview & Highlights
- Organization: Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Govt. of India
- Post Name: Research Associateship (DBT-RA)
- Application Mode: Online via Common Fellowship Portal
- Last Date: 12th May 2026
- Official Website: fellowships.gov.in
Why Apply for DBT-RA?
Joining the DBT-RA programme provides immense job security and career growth in the research sector. This fellowship allows you to work in premier research institutions across India, offering a stable platform under the 7th CPC pay structure guidelines for research personnel. It is a central government fellowship, ensuring national-level recognition and opportunities for patent generation and societal outcomes.
Detailed Vacancy Breakdown for DBT Recruitment 2026
The department invites applications for the award of "DBT-Research Associateship" in Biotechnology & Life Sciences. While specific vacancy counts per institution are dynamic, the programme offers multiple slots across India.
| Post Designation | Vacancy Count | Salary (INR) | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Associate (DBT-RA) | Multiple (Institution Dependent) | ₹55,000 - ₹60,000 + HRA | Pan India |
Note: This recruitment is for Central Government Jobs in the research sector.
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Qualification
- Ph.D. degree in Science, Engineering, or M.D./M.S. degree in Medicine.
- Must have research interests in Biotechnology and Life Sciences.
- Candidates who have submitted their thesis are also eligible (fellowship amount may be lower until degree qualification).
Age Limit
- Male Candidates: Upper age limit is 40 years.
- Female Candidates: Upper age limit is 45 years.
- Age is calculated as of the last date of application (12th May 2026).
Other Conditions
- Employed candidates must relinquish their current employment to accept the fellowship.
- Candidates can avail this fellowship only once in their career.
- Cannot work with PhD guides or at the same institution where Ph.D. was earned.
Salary & Tenure
The DBT-RA is a full-time temporary assignment. The fellowship is tenable for 02 years, extendable up to 04 years based on research progress.
- Fellowship Amount: As per DBT norms (Approx. ₹55,000 - ₹60,000 per month).
- Contingency Grant: Available for research expenses.
- HRA: Applicable if hostel accommodation is not provided.
How to Apply Online for DBT-RA Recruitment 2026
Follow these steps to submit your application for the Latest Government Jobs in Research:
- Visit the official Common Fellowship Portal: https://fellowships.gov.in/.
- Register on the portal and fill in the complete online application form.
- Enter Personal Information, Academic Qualifications, Research Contribution, and Referee Details.
- Upload required documents:
- Self-attested DOB Certificate (PDF)
- Self-attested Degree Certificates (PDF)
- Consent Letter from Mentor (Format available on portal)
- Submit the application on or before 12th May 2026.
- Ensure referees upload recommendation letters by the closing date.
Important: Only one application per candidate is allowed. Multiple applications will lead to disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the last date to apply for DBT-RA 2026?
The last date for submission of the online application is 12th May 2026.
Can employed candidates apply for DBT-RA?
Yes, employed candidates can apply, but they must relinquish their current employment if selected for the fellowship.
Is there an age limit for the DBT Research Associateship?
Yes, the upper age limit is 40 years for males and 45 years for females as of the last date of application.
Can I apply if I have submitted my thesis but not yet received the degree?
Yes, candidates who have submitted their Ph.D./M.D./M.S. thesis are eligible, but the fellowship amount will be lower until the degree is awarded.
Where can I work under this fellowship?
The fellowship is tenable in premier research institutions, universities, and non-profit R&D institutions within India.
How many times can I avail this fellowship?
The DBT-RA fellowship can be availed only once in a candidate's career.
What is the tenure of the DBT-RA fellowship?
The tenure is 02 years with annual renewal, extendable up to 04 years based on research progress.
How will I know if my application is selected?
Selection is based on the review of the application and research proposal. The host institution will communicate the selection result.