About PRISM Fellowship:
The PRISM Fellowship 2026 is a fully-funded, 2-month residential research programme designed to support students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds in STEM. Hosted at the National Centre for Biological Sciences, the fellowship focuses on life sciences research and academic skill development. Moreover, the programme combines hands-on laboratory experience with structured academic training, ensuring participants gain both practical exposure and theoretical knowledge. As a result, fellows build strong foundations for future careers in research and academia.
Last Date to Apply :
- Application Start Date: 10 April 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 19 April 2026 (11:59 PM IST)
Scholarship Benefits :
The PRISM Fellowship offers multiple benefits to enhance academic and professional growth:
1 Fully-funded programme (No application fees)
2 Stipend for living expenses
3 Free accommodation during the programme
4 Hands-on research experience in top laboratories
5 Mentorship from leading scientists and researchers
6 Weekly academic training sessions
7 Networking opportunities with peers and experts
Eligibility Criteria :
To apply for PRISM Fellowship 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:
1 Must be pursuing:
2 MasterтАЩs degree OR
3 3rd/4th year of a 4-year bachelorтАЩs degree OR
4 3rd year of a 3-year bachelorтАЩs degree OR 3rdтАУ5th year of an integrated/dual degree
5 Must belong to disadvantaged or underrepresented backgrounds
6 Must have strong interest in life sciences (e.g., genetics, ecology, neurobiology, bioinformatics)
7 Additionally, applications are encouraged from SC/ST/OBC, PwD, women, minorities, and Northeast communities.
Documents Required :
Applicants need to prepare the following documents before applying:
1 Personal details (contact, address, family income, etc.)
2 Academic records and educational background
3 Updated CV (Curriculum Vitae)
4 Statement of Purpose (SOP)
5 Research interests and motivation statement
Selection Process :
The selection process is designed to identify high-potential candidates:
1 Application Review тАУ Based on academic potential and background
2 Shortlisting тАУ Candidates shortlisted for next round
3 Interview Round тАУ Virtual interview with NCBS faculty
4 Final Selection тАУ Based on performance and lab availability
Finally, selected candidates are assigned to research labs based on their interests and expertise.
Fellowship Structure :
The programme is divided into two major components:
1. Laboratory Research
- Work in NCBS labs under expert mentorship
- Gain experience in experimental design, data analysis, and research projects
2. Academic Skills Programme
- Weekly workshops and lectures
- Topics include research methods, academic writing, SOPs, CV building, and ethics
Thus, the fellowship ensures holistic development in both research and academic skills.
Important Dates (Timeline)
- Application Deadline: 19 April 2026
- Shortlist Announcement: Last week of April 2026
- Interviews: Early May 2026
- Final Results: Second week of May 2026
- Programme Start: 1 June 2026
Additional Notes
1 The fellowship is completely free of cost (no application fee).
2 It is different from PRISM National Fellowship, which has separate applications.
3 Only current students are eligible; graduates cannot apply.
4 Limited seats are available, making the programme highly competitive
Official Website
https://www.projecteduaccess.com/india/prism-fellowship
Application Link
Contact Details