AICTE PostDoctoral Fellowship (PDF): Apply Now

Are you a fresh PhD graduate and looking to pursue advanced research in India? AICTE Postdoctoral Fellowship (PDF) could be the perfect opportunity for you! This initiative by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) aims to nurture research talent and support scholars in their academic journey. Here is an easy-to-follow guide to help you understand this prestigious program.

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What is the AICTE Postdoctoral Fellowship?

The AICTE Postdoctoral Fellowship aims to encourage 200 scholars annually from diverse fields such as Engineering, Business Administration, Design, Hotel Management, Computer Applications, and Applied Sciences. The program is targeted at those who have completed their doctoral studies and wish to pursue a career in the field of research and development.

Main Objectives of the Fellowship

• To promote quality research in Indian research institutes.
• To provide scholars with an opportunity to engage in advanced research across various academic disciplines.
• To foster innovation in new interdisciplinary areas.

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for the AICTE PostDoctoral Fellowship are simple yet specific:

For Scholars

• Educational Qualification: Must have a PhD in a relevant field. A provisional certificate is acceptable if the degree has not yet been formally awarded.
• Minimum Grades General category applicants must have at least 55% marks at the undergraduate or postgraduate level (5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/Women/PWD candidates).
• Age Limit: Must be below 35 years. Relaxations available: 5 years for SC/ST/Women/PWD and 3 years for OBC.

Supervisor

• A recognized PhD supervisor and affiliated with an AICTE-recognised educational institution.
• Not retired and holding a full-time faculty position.

For Research Centres

• This fellowship is available only in AICTE-recognised institutions.

AICTE PostDoctoral Fellowship Award

The AICTE PostDoctoral Fellowship provides financial and logistical support to help scholars focus on their research:

• Fellowship Amount: ₹65,000 per month.
• Contingency Grant: ₹50,000 annually for research-related expenses.
• HRA: Provided as per government norms if hostel accommodation is unavailable.

Other perks include access to institutional infrastructure, medical facilities, and leave for conferences or workshops.

Duration of the Fellowship

The duration of the fellowship is one year, extendable by one year based on satisfactory progress. However, the total duration cannot exceed two years.

How to apply for AICTE Postdoctoral Fellowship

The application process is simple:

• Visit the AICTE portal (applications are open throughout the year).
• Upload a “No Objection Certificate” from your chosen research centre.
• Ensure that all documents are correctly formatted and true to avoid rejection.

Selection Process

Applications will be evaluated rigorously by a committee of experts, taking into account:

• Your Ph.D. achievements.
• The reputation of your supervisor and institution.
• The quality of your research proposal.

Responsibilities of Scholars and Institutions

For Scholars

• Dedicate full-time to research.
• Publish at least one article per year in a Scopus-indexed journal.
• Avoid employment or additional financial support during the fellowship period.

If an institution

• Provide essential research facilities and appoint a coordinating representative.
• Provide scholarship funding through Directly Provided Tuition (DBT).
• Regularly monitor and report on scholars’ progress.

Important Considerations

The fellowship may be terminated in such cases:

• In the case of misconduct or insufficient progress.
• In the case of submitting false information.
• In the case of engaging in plagiarism or unethical practices.
• In the case of taking up employment during the fellowship period.

Final Thoughts

AICTE PostDoctoral Fellowship is a stepping stone for scholars who aspire to make significant contributions to research and development. With financial support, institutional backing, and a systematic monitoring process, AICTE PDF is a unique opportunity to advance your academic career.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this chance. Start your application now and leap research excellence!

Frequently Asked Questions About AICTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship (PDF)

Who can apply for the AICTE Postdoctoral Fellowship?

Candidates with a PhD in relevant fields such as Engineering, Business Administration, Design, Hotel Management, Computer Applications, Applied Science, Interdisciplinary Studies etc. can apply. General category applicants need to have a minimum of 55% marks at UG/PG level with 5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/Women/PWD candidates. Eligible applicants should be below 35 years of age.

Can I apply for the fellowship if I am already employed or on any other scholarship?

AICTE Postdoctoral Fellowship is for full-time research and you cannot be working part-time or full-time. Similarly, if you are receiving any other financial aid or scholarship during your employment, you will not be eligible for this fellowship.

What financial benefits does the scholarship entail?

You will be provided with a monthly stipend of ₹65,000 and a yearly ₹50,000 towards research-related expenses. Additionally, if hostel accommodation is not possible, House Rent Allowance (HRA) will also be provided as per government regulations.

What is the duration of the fellowship and is there any extension?

The duration of the fellowship will be one year initially. It can be extended for another year based on satisfactory performance, up to a maximum of two years. No further extension beyond this period is allowed.

How will research progress be monitored during the fellowship period?

The progress of the scholars will be reviewed by the Institute-level Research Assessment Committee half-yearly and by AICTE once a year. Scholars will be required to submit progress reports periodically through the AICTE portal.