The Physical Research Laboratory has invited applications for the prestigious Vikram Sarabhai Postdoctoral Fellowship, popularly known as VISHWAS Fellowship. The programme aims to support young researchers working in fundamental science with strong societal relevance. Introduced in honour of Prof. Vikram Sarabhai, the fellowship encourages disruptive and advanced research aligned with the scientific domains pursued at PRL.
Selected candidates will receive a monthly fellowship amount of Rs 1 lakh along with House Rent Allowance (HRA) and other facilities as per PRL and Department of Space norms. PRL has announced a total of three fellowship positions under the programme.
Key Highlights
- Fellowship Name: Vikram Sarabhai Postdoctoral Fellowship (VISHWAS)
- Conducting Organisation: Physical Research Laboratory
- Fellowship Amount: Rs 1 lakh per month
- Additional Benefits: HRA and PRL facilities
- Total Positions: 3
- Fellowship Duration: Initially 2 years
- Extension Provision: Up to 1 additional year
- Eligible Candidates: Indian nationals with PhD
- Age Limit: Below 35 years
- Application Mode: Online
- Selection Method: Shortlisting and interview
More Info
The VISHWAS Fellowship has been launched to promote high-quality postdoctoral research in areas connected to the ongoing scientific work at PRL. The fellowship focuses on innovative and impactful research proposals that can contribute to both fundamental science and societal development.
The fellowship tenure will initially remain valid for two years. PRL will conduct annual reviews to assess the progress of research work. Based on performance and project requirements, candidates may also receive a one-year extension after approval.
The programme is expected to provide young researchers with opportunities to collaborate with experienced scientists and access advanced research infrastructure available at PRL.
How to Apply for PRL VISHWAS Fellowship 2026
- Visit the official PRL portal.
- Complete the online registration process.
- Activate the account through the email verification link.
- Login using registered credentials.
- Fill in personal, academic and employment details.
- Upload publication details and required documents.
- Submit referee information online.
- Upload the research proposal prepared with the proposed PRL supervisor.
- Review all details carefully before final submission.
- Submit the application form online.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for the fellowship must satisfy the following conditions:
- Applicant must be an Indian national.
- Candidates should possess a PhD degree.
- PhD must have been awarded within four years from the application date.
- Applicant should be below 35 years of age on the last application date.
- Candidates must have first class academic records throughout their studies.
- Researchers currently working as Postdoctoral Fellows at PRL are not eligible to apply.
Selection Process
The selection process for the PRL VISHWAS Fellowship will include multiple stages.
Shortlisting Criteria
Applications will be shortlisted based on:
- Academic performance
- Research proposal quality
- Publication record
- Recommendations from three referees
The referees must not belong to the PRL faculty.
Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews either:
- Online mode
- In-person at PRL headquarters
Interview calls will only be issued after all required documents and recommendation letters are successfully received.
Research Proposal Requirements
Applicants must prepare a detailed research proposal in consultation with a proposed PRL supervisor.
The proposal should include:
- Introduction and background of research
- Motivation behind the proposed work
- Research objectives
- Methodology
- Expected outcomes
- Relevant prior experience
- Timeline for the first year
Candidates are also required to upload:
- Abstract of PhD thesis
- Peer-reviewed publication details
- Information about ongoing work under review
Applicants employed in government departments, PSUs or autonomous institutions will need to produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) during the interview stage.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive several benefits under the programme, including:
- Monthly scholarship of Rs 1 lakh
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Access to PRL research facilities
- Opportunity to work with leading scientists
- Possibility of fellowship extension
- Exposure to advanced scientific research projects
What’s Next
After the application submission process closes, PRL will review all applications and shortlist eligible candidates based on merit and research potential. Selected applicants will be informed regarding interview schedules and further documentation requirements.
Candidates are advised to regularly monitor the official PRL website for updates related to interview dates, final selection results and joining instructions.
Quick Reference Summary
| Particulars | Details |
| Fellowship Name | VISHWAS Fellowship |
| Organisation | PRL |
| Monthly Fellowship | Rs 1 lakh |
| Total Posts | 3 |
| Age Limit | Below 35 years |
| Qualification | PhD |
| Fellowship Duration | 2 years |
| Extension | 1 additional year |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Process | Shortlisting + Interview |
Frequently Asked Questions
| What is the PRL VISHWAS Fellowship 2026? |
| The VISHWAS Fellowship is a postdoctoral research programme launched by PRL to support young researchers working in fundamental science with societal relevance. |
| How much scholarship amount is offered under the fellowship? |
| Selected candidates will receive Rs 1 lakh per month along with HRA and additional facilities as per PRL rules. |
| How many fellowship positions are available? |
| PRL has announced a total of three fellowship positions under the VISHWAS programme. |
| What is the age limit for PRL VISHWAS Fellowship? |
| Applicants must be below 35 years of age on the last date of application submission. |
| Who can apply for the fellowship? |
| Indian nationals holding a PhD degree within four years from the award date and having strong academic records can apply. |
| Is a research proposal mandatory for application? |
| Yes, candidates must submit a detailed research proposal prepared in consultation with a proposed PRL supervisor. |
| Are PRL postdoctoral fellows eligible to apply? |
| No, researchers already working as PDFs at PRL are not eligible for the programme. |
| What documents are required during application? |
| Applicants need to upload their PhD thesis abstract, publication details, research proposal and referee information during the online application process. |
The PRL VISHWAS Fellowship 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for young researchers to pursue advanced scientific research with financial support and access to world-class facilities. With a generous monthly scholarship of Rs 1 lakh and the chance to work on impactful research projects, the fellowship is expected to attract highly talented scholars from across India. Interested candidates should complete the online application process carefully and prepare a strong research proposal to improve their selection chances, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
