The “Junior Research Fellowship in Engineering & Technology” scheme provides research fellowships to M.E./M.Tech. and M.Pharma students pursuing a Ph.D. in Engineering and Technology. Since the UGC and CSIR do not conduct National Eligibility Test (NET) examinations in these fields, candidates are selected through direct interviews conducted by the Commission. 50 slots are available per year under this scheme.
Objectives of the Scheme
- To provide financial assistance for advanced research leading to a Ph.D. in Engineering & Technology.
- To ensure high-quality research and skill development in specialized technical areas.
- To support students in agricultural engineering, but not in geology and geophysics.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Fellowship Duration & Funding
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): ₹14,000/- per month for the first two years.
- Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) (after evaluation at the end of 2 years): ₹15,000/- per month for the remaining period.
- Contingency Grant:
- ₹12,000/- per year for the first two years.
- ₹25,000/- per year for the remaining period.
- Departmental Assistance: ₹3,000/- per year per student.
- Escorts/Reader Assistance: ₹2,000/- per month for physically handicapped and blind candidates.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Provided as per institution norms, based on hostel accommodation availability.
Other Benefits
- Medical Facilities: Candidates can avail of institutional medical facilities, but no separate allowance is provided.
- Leave:
- 30 days leave per year (excluding public holidays).
- No summer/winter/pooja vacation leaves.
- 135 days of maternity leave at full fellowship rates (once during tenure).
Eligibility Criteria
- Must hold an M.E./M.Tech. or M.Pharma degree with 55% marks or above.
- GATE score is not required.
- Maximum age limit: 40 years (as of July 1st of the award year).
- 5-year relaxation for SC/ST and women candidates.
- 22.5% of the fellowships reserved for SC/ST candidates. If SC/ST slots remain unfilled, they will be allotted to general candidates.
Exclusions
The fellowship may be canceled in cases of:
- Misconduct by the fellow.
- Unsatisfactory research progress.
- Failure in Ph.D. coursework examinations.
- Candidate found ineligible after award.
Application Process
Online Application
- Application Call: The scheme is advertised once a year in leading newspapers and the AIU (Association of Indian Universities) Newsletter.
- Submission: Applications must be submitted in the prescribed format (Annexure II).
- Selection Process:
- Applications are scrutinized, and shortlisted candidates are called for an interview.
- No TA/DA is provided for attending the interview.
- The final decision rests with the Commission.
- Approval & Grant Release:
- Selected candidates submit their Joining Report (Annexure III) through their university/institution.
- Upon receipt, the first-year grant is released.
Documents Required
- Duly filled application form.
- Aadhaar Number.
- Proof of Date of Birth (Birth Certificate/Class 10th Marksheet).
- Proof of Address.
- Educational Qualification Certificates & Mark Sheets.
- Certificate from Head of Department/Institution.
- Research Proposal (500-word abstract on research methods & objectives).
- Employment Status Proof (if applicable).
- Basic Data Sheet.
- Caste Certificate (if applicable).
- Minority Certificate (if applicable).
- Disability Certificate (if applicable).
- Bank Account Details.
- Government-issued ID Proof.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the objective of this fellowship?
A: To support advanced research in engineering and technology leading to a Ph.D. degree.
Q: What is the total duration of the fellowship?
A: 5 years (2 years as JRF, 3 years as SRF, subject to evaluation).
Q: What is the financial assistance provided under this scheme?
A: Fellowship: ₹14,000/- (JRF), ₹15,000/- (SRF), contingency grants, departmental assistance, and HRA.
Q: Is GATE required for eligibility?
A: No, GATE is not mandatory.
Q: What is the age limit for applying?
A: 40 years (5 years relaxation for SC/ST & women candidates).
Q: Is there any reservation for SC/ST candidates?
A: 22.5% of fellowships are reserved for SC/ST applicants.
Q: Can I take leave during the fellowship period?
A: 30 days per year, maternity leave (135 days, once during tenure) is available.
Q: Is there any fee for applying?
A: No, the application is free of cost.
Q: Where can I submit my application?
A: Applications are submitted online as per the advertisement once a year.
Q: Can I avail HRA if hostel accommodation is unavailable?
A: Yes, HRA is provided based on institution norms.