AI SummaryAnusandhan National Research Foundation has launched the National Science Chair- Scientific Excellence scheme for superannuated scientists who want to continue their research work. This scheme helps senior scientists stay active in research and share their knowledge with the scientific community. The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) used to run this scheme, but from 2026 onwards, all processes, nominations, and funding are handled by ANRF.
The scheme recognises eminent senior resident Indian superannuated scientists for their outstanding work in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine. It promotes continued research excellence and helps the country get the benefit of experienced scientists even after their retirement. As there are limited chairs available, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) encourages senior researchers to apply when calls are announced.
National Science Chair- Scientific Excellence - Key Details
This scheme honours active senior scientists who have made outstanding contributions to science and want to keep pushing their research forward. The government believes that not using the knowledge of experienced scientists is a loss for the country. So this scheme gives them the support they need to continue their R&D work.
The National Science Chair scheme runs in two modes depending on what kind of work the scientist wants to do. Mode-1 is for those who want to continue active research. Mode-2 is for those who want to focus on thought leadership and mentoring younger scientists.
Mode-1: Scientific Excellence
You qualify if you are a senior scientist with a strong track record proven by publications, patents, technology transfers, or software development and wish to keep advancing your research. The main aim is to provide continuous support for R&D activities to passionate senior scientists based on their scientific output.
A National Science Chair Advisory Committee (NSCAC) has been formed to look after the development of these chairs, manage the selection process, review progress, and make sure the R&D projects stay at a high level. There is a limit of 30 positions available under Mode-1.
Mode-2: Science Leadership
This mode recognises outstanding superannuated scientists who have built a strong international reputation as research leaders. It focuses on mentoring young researchers, conducting new research, publishing in good journals, and helping in policy making. There are 5 positions available under Mode-2.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | National Science Chair- Scientific Excellence |
| Level | Central |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary States | All |
| Category | Science, IT and Communications |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual |
| Sub Category | Research and Development |
| Benefit Type | Composite |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Science and Technology |
| Nodal Department | Department of Science and Technology |
| Implementing Agency | Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India |
Benefits and Financial Support
The scheme provides good financial support to make sure your research work continues smoothly. Successful candidates get the following benefits:
| Benefit Component | Mode-1 Amount | Mode-2 Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fellowship | Rs 1.5 Lakh | Rs 1.5 Lakh |
| Annual Research Grant | Rs 25 Lakhs | Rs 5 Lakhs |
| Annual Overhead for Host Institute | Rs 1 Lakh | Rs 1 Lakh |
| Initial Tenure | 3 Years | 3 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 5 Years | 5 Years |
You can use the research grant for manpower, equipment, travel and other expenses as per your host institution rules. Standard items bought become the property of the host institute. The fellowship is in addition to any pension you may be getting.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this scheme, you should meet these requirements:
- You must be an active resident Indian scientist or academician with a strong research track record in STEM or medicine, especially over the last five years.
- You should have received appreciation from national or international bodies such as fellowship in prestigious academies or science awards.
- You need to have a link with an academic institution or R and D lab, or get consent from a future host institution.
Please note that the nominee should not hold any administrative roles or receive salary, fellowship or honorarium from any other organization when starting this award. If someone is currently getting a pension or salary from another project, they should settle those roles before starting this chair.
The NSCAC looks at nominations based on your international standing, how original your research plan is, and your ability to guide younger researchers.
Application Process
You can complete the online application process through the ANRF portal. Nominations are accepted based on vacancies and calls are announced from time to time.
STEP 1 - Go to the official ANRF online portal at www.anrfonline.in and register yourself by filling in the required details.
STEP 2 - Log in and fill all the mandatory fields in the Nominee Details section under User Profile which includes photo, institution, address and other information.
STEP 3 - Under Form Submission, choose the National Science Chair scheme and fill the nomination form which includes details of qualifications, employment, professional recognition, publications, patents and other information.
STEP 4 - Upload a single PDF file not more than 5 pages containing your proposed research area, introduction, objectives, methodology, budget and expected outcome (only for Mode-1 nominations).
STEP 5 - Click on 'Send to Nominator'. The nominator will receive an email with a link to the ANRF portal to view and submit the form. Authorised nominators such as former academy presidents, directors of IITs, IISc, NITs, or vice-chancellors will submit the proposal on your behalf.
Documents Required
You need to prepare the following documents for your application:
- Research Proposal (up to 5 pages) covering introduction, objectives, methodology, budget and expected outcomes - for Mode-1 nominations only.
- Certificate from the nominee confirming eligibility - template available on the ANRF portal.
- Endorsement Certificate from the head of your host institute - template available on the ANRF portal.
Contact Details
For any queries about the scheme, you can reach out to the following officials at ANRF:
Program Officer: Dr. Magesh Kumar K.K, Scientist E
Address: Anusandhan National Research Foundation, 3rd and 4th Floor, Block II, Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi - 110016
Phone: 011-26511044, 26552117
Program Director: Dr. A.V. Balachandar, Scientist F
Phone: 011-26511091, 26552236
References
Official ANRF Website - National Science Chair | SERB Official Website
FAQ's
What is the mode to submit my nomination for National Science Chair award?
You need to submit your nomination only through the online mode on the official ANRF portal at www.anrfonline.in. Self-application is not allowed, a nominator must submit it on your behalf.
What are the eligibility criteria for applying under this scheme?
You must be a resident Indian scientist with a strong 5-year track record in STEM or medicine, have national or international recognition, and have host institution consent. You should not hold other administrative or paid roles at the time of starting.
What are the mandatory documents required?
You need to submit a research proposal up to 5 pages (for Mode-1 only), an endorsement letter from your host institute, and a signed certificate from the nominee. Templates are available on the ANRF portal.
Can I apply if I am an Indian living abroad?
Yes, you may apply if you withdraw your foreign position and provide a No Objection Certificate from your current foreign institution.
What research areas are covered under this scheme?
The scheme covers all researchers working in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine.
Who decides on my nomination?
The National Science Chair Advisory Committee (NSCAC) reviews all proposals and recommends candidates to ANRF for final selection.
How will I know if I am selected?
ANRF usually notifies candidates around 4 to 6 weeks after the selection committee meeting.
Can I appeal if my nomination is rejected?
Yes, you can file a plea and the NSCAC will discuss it in their next meeting.
Can I apply for both modes at the same time?
No, you cannot apply for both modes at the same time. But you may apply to other programs if you do not get this chair.
How does the award start?
Once you get the offer letter, you must join within three months and submit your acceptance with banking details so ANRF can issue the sanction order.
Can I hold other fellowships at the same time?
No, you cannot hold other fellowships. If you currently hold one, you need to submit a surrender certificate and clear your accounts before starting this award.
Can I delay the start date?
No, once the sanction order is issued, your joining date at the host institute marks the start of the award.
Is there additional funding for the host institute?
The host institute gets Rs 1,00,000 per year as overhead costs. No other extra funds are provided.
Are the grants taxable?
Yes, grants received under this award are taxable as per income tax rules.