The Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education has officially opened applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026. The initiative aims to attract Indian-origin researchers, scientists, and professionals working abroad to contribute to advanced research in India’s premier institutions and national laboratories. Applications for both Fellows and Host Institutions started on June 1, 2026, through the official PMRC portal and will remain open until July 15, 2026.
Key Highlights
- Scheme Name: Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026
- Conducting Authority: Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education
- Application Start Date: June 1, 2026
- Last Date to Apply: July 15, 2026
- Target Applicants: Indian-origin researchers working abroad
- Duration of Engagement: Up to 5 years
- Programme Period: 2026-27 to 2030-31
- Categories Available: Young Research Fellows, Senior Research Fellows, Research Chairs
- Total Priority Research Areas: 13
- Mode of Application: Online
More Info
The PMRC Scheme 2026 has been introduced to strengthen India’s research ecosystem by encouraging highly qualified Indian-origin experts working overseas to collaborate with leading Indian institutions.
The programme covers critical sectors that are expected to drive future technological and scientific growth. Selected fellows will receive research support, access to advanced laboratories, institutional collaboration opportunities, and funding assistance.
The scheme is designed to enhance India’s capabilities in emerging and strategic technologies while promoting global academic and scientific partnerships.
Priority Research Areas
The scheme focuses on the following major sectors:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Quantum Computing
- Semiconductors
- Cybersecurity
- Biotechnology
- Healthcare and Medical Technology
- Space Technology
- Defence Technology
- Energy
- Climate Change
- Agriculture Technology
- Advanced Materials
- Other strategic and emerging research domains
Candidates can submit their online applications through the official portal before the closing date.
Step-by-Step Process
Candidates can apply for the PMRC Scheme 2026 by following these steps:
Step 1 – Visit the official PMRC portal.
Step 2 – Register using the required credentials and create an applicant profile.
Step 3 – Prepare and upload the required documents, including:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of educational qualifications
- Details of citizenship status
- Research publications and outputs
- Evidence of previous research work
- Preferred Host Institution details
Step 4 – Fill in all required information carefully.
Step 5 – Review the application form and uploaded documents.
Step 6 – Submit the application online.
Step 7 – Save and print the application confirmation for future reference.
Eligible Applicants
The following categories are eligible to apply:
- Indian Nationals currently working abroad
- Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Cardholders
- Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
- Researchers with strong academic and research credentials
- Scientists and professionals with significant research achievements
CATEGORIES UNDER PMRC
Young Research Fellows
Designed for early-career researchers with strong academic potential and promising research records.
Senior Research Fellows
Intended for experienced researchers with established contributions in their respective fields.
Research Chairs
Reserved for distinguished researchers and globally recognized experts with outstanding research achievements.
Benefits Offered
Selected candidates will receive:
- Research funding support
- Access to advanced laboratories
- Collaboration with top Indian institutions
- Opportunities to mentor researchers and students
- Participation in national strategic research projects
- Long-term research engagement support
Engagement Duration
- Maximum tenure: Up to 5 years
- Programme cycle: 2026-27 to 2030-31
Host Institutions Identified Under PMRC 2026
Seven premier institutions have been identified as lead host institutions:
- Indian Institute of Technology Delhi
- Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
- Indian Institute of Technology Madras
- Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur
- Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad
- Indian Institute of Technology (ISM) Dhanbad
- Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru
These institutions will play a major role in hosting fellows and supporting advanced research activities under the scheme.
What’s Next
Interested researchers should begin preparing their applications immediately, especially those who need to compile research records, publication details, and host institution preferences.
Applicants are advised to complete the registration process well before the July 15 deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Quick Reference Summary
- Scheme: PMRC 2026
- Ministry: Ministry of Education
- Application Mode: Online
- Start Date: June 1, 2026
- Last Date: July 15, 2026
- Duration: Up to 5 Years
- Eligible Applicants: Indian Nationals Abroad, OCI, PIO
- Categories: Young Fellows, Senior Fellows, Research Chairs
- Research Areas: 13 Priority Sectors
- Lead Institutions: IITs and IISc
Frequently Asked Questions
| What is the PMRC Scheme 2026? |
| The Prime Minister Research Chair Scheme 2026 is a government initiative aimed at attracting Indian-origin researchers and scientists working abroad to conduct advanced research in India. |
| When did PMRC 2026 applications start? |
| Applications for Fellows and Host Institutions began on June 1, 2026 through the official PMRC portal. |
| What is the last date to apply for PMRC 2026? |
| Candidates can submit their online applications until July 15, 2026. Early submission is recommended. |
| Who can apply for the PMRC Scheme? |
| Indian nationals working abroad, OCI cardholders, and Persons of Indian Origin with strong research credentials are eligible. |
| What are the categories available under PMRC? |
| The scheme offers Young Research Fellows, Senior Research Fellows, and Research Chair positions based on experience and achievements. |
| How long is the engagement period under PMRC? |
| Selected fellows can be engaged for up to five years during the programme period from 2026-27 to 2030-31. |
| What benefits will selected fellows receive? |
| Fellows will receive funding support, laboratory access, collaboration opportunities, and institutional research support. |
| Which institutions are participating in PMRC 2026? |
| Lead institutions include IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Kanpur, IIT Hyderabad, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, and IISc Bengaluru. |
The Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026 presents a major opportunity for Indian-origin researchers and scientists working abroad to contribute to India’s growing research and innovation ecosystem. With support from leading institutions, long-term research funding, and access to world-class facilities, the programme aims to accelerate advancements in strategic and emerging technologies. Eligible candidates should complete their applications before July 15, 2026, to take advantage of this prestigious initiative, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
