The National Solar Science Fellowship Programme was launched in February 2011 by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) to spur research and innovations in the field of solar energy science, engineering, and technology. The objective of the scheme is to build a platform where better-qualified scientists and engineers seeking research in the field of solar energy will be able to contribute towards contributing towards building innovative substitutes with the leading institutions. The fellowship plans to resolve the complex issues regarding solar energy consumption and assist India’s energy.
Benefits
Selected Fellows will receive:
- Annual Grant: Up to ₹32.00 lakhs, comprising:
- Emolument: Up to ₹12.00 lakhs
- Contingencies: Up to ₹5.00 lakhs
- Research Grant: Up to ₹15.00 lakhs
- The grant will be released to the host institution for distribution to the Fellow.
- Fellows may raise additional resources from external sources such as host institutions and grant providers to further their research.
Eligibility
- Nationality: The applicant must be an Indian National or of Indian origin.
- Educational Qualification:
- Doctorate or equivalent in the field of solar sciences, solar engineering, or a related area, with at least 10 years of research experience, including during Ph.D.
- M.Tech. or M.S. degree holders with published work and research experience may also apply if the Fellowship Management Committee deems their proposal valuable.
- Experience: Proven leadership in solar energy research and development.
- No Age Bar: There is no age limit for the applicants.
- R&D Proposal: Applicants must submit an R&D proposal in areas identified by the Fellowship Management Committee, emphasizing solving solar energy technology problems.
Application Process
Offline Application:
- Step 1: Applications are invited through an open advertisement for talented scientists working in solar science and engineering.
- Step 2: Applicants must submit their applications in the prescribed Proforma (Annexure-II) provided by the MNRE.
- Step 3: The application must include an R&D proposal in the identified research areas. The proposal should demonstrate how it will address challenges in solar energy technology.
- Step 4: The Fellowship Management Committee, headed by the Secretary, MNRE, will evaluate the applications based on the research project, qualifications, and potential impact.
- Step 5: Selected Fellows will be attached to a host institution and will sign an agreement to work there for the full tenure of the fellowship.
Documents Required
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, etc.
- Educational Certificates: Proof of degrees and qualifications.
- Experience Certificate: Details of previous work in R&D.
- R&D Proposal: Detailed research proposal.
- Recognition: Awards or recognitions in solar energy research at the national or international level.
- Publications: Details of scientific papers published in solar energy.
- Other Documents: Additional supporting documents, if any.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: For what purpose does the program aim?
The National Solar Science Fellowship Program seeks to assist elite scientists and engineers in improving solar energy research and addressing important solar energy use related issues.
Q2: Starting this program was whose department?
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) first proposed the plan.
Q3:Under this plan, who qualifies to apply?
Those eligible are Indian citizens with Ph.D. in solar sciences/solar engineering or M.Tech./M.S. holders with pertinent expertise.
Q4:Can M.Tech. or M.S. degree holders apply?
Indeed, M.Tech. or M.S. holders can apply if they have published work and research experience; the Fellowship Management Committee reviews their proposal.
Q5: The fellowship lasts what length of time?
Originally lasting two years, the fellowship offers an additional three years depending on the advancement of the research possibility.
Q6: There are how many fellowships given out?
Though only three fellows may be chosen in the first year, at any one moment a maximum of ten colleagues are chosen.
Q7: How might someone apply for this fellowship?
Following the policies set in the official announcement, candidates can apply offline by sending their application and R&D proposal to the MNRE.
Sources and References
- Official Website: MNRE – National Solar Science Fellowship