DBT-RA (Department of Biotechnology – Research Associateship)
The DBT-RA
(Department of Biotechnology – Research Associateship) fellowship is a
prestigious postdoctoral program funded by the Department of Biotechnology,
Government of India. While it is often pursued by students from a biology
background, it is also an excellent opportunity for PhD holders in chemistry
who wish to explore interdisciplinary research and begin their careers as
scientists.
This fellowship allows chemistry graduates—especially those with expertise in organic synthesis, spectroscopy, or chemical analysis—to apply their skills in biotechnology, chemical biology, drug discovery, and other biology-driven fields. It's a solid starting point for anyone interested in working at the interface of chemistry and life sciences.
Who Can Apply?
- Candidates who have completed
their PhD, or
- Those who have submitted
their PhD thesis (final award pending).
- Open to candidates from chemistry, biology, biotechnology, or related fields
Steps to apply
Step 1: Identify a Mentor and Obtain a Consent Letter
Before
submitting your application:
- You must find a mentor
from an Indian institute with DBT recognition.
- The mentor should be working in
a relevant area where your research project can be hosted.
- You need one official consent
letter:
- It should be written on the departmental
letterhead,
- Signed by the mentor and countersigned by the Head of the Department (HOD)
Step 2: Prepare Your Research Proposal
Your
proposal must follow the official DBT format:
- Title of the Proposed Research
Work
- Background (Max 200 words)
- Key Research Questions (Max 100 words)
- Objectives (Preferably in bullet/numbered
form, Max 100 words)
- Methodology (Aligned with objectives, Max
300 words)
- Expected Outcomes
- Importance and Translational Potential (Max 100 words)
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Make sure
you have the following ready (in PDF or JPG format):
- 10th and 12th mark
sheets/certificates
- B.Sc. and M.Sc. mark sheets and
degrees
- Ph.D. degree or thesis
submission certificate
- Consent letter from the mentor
- Digital signature
Step 4: Apply Online
- Visit the DBT-RA Online Portal
- Register/login to your account
- Upload the research proposal and supporting documents
Also Add Referee Details for Recommendation Letters
- You must enter the names and
email addresses of the referees (usually 2) who will write
recommendation letters for you.
- The system will automatically
send them an email with a secure link.
- Referees need to upload the
letters directly through that link.
Step 5: Shortlisting and Interview Process
If your
application is shortlisted:
- You’ll be notified via email.
- You’ll need to give a presentation
(6–7 slides) during the interview.
Presentation
Guidelines:
- Slides 1–3: Your academic profile,
research background, publications, and achievements.
- Slides 4–6: Explanation of your proposed
research—its rationale, methodology, and significance.
Interview
Format:
- Questions will mostly revolve
around your research proposal.
- Expect analytical and critical questions that test your understanding and clarity.
- Your performance in the interview determines your selection.
Fellowship
Details
- The fellowship awarded is Research
Associate-I (RA-I) level.
- Monthly fellowship: ₹58,000 +
HRA (based on the city of placement).
When to Apply?
- The DBT-RA fellowship is advertised twice a year.
- Around 50 candidates are selected in each cycle.
Why Should Chemistry Students Consider It?
Although this is widely seen as a fellowship for biology researchers, it offers a prestigious and strategic entry point for chemistry PhDs into biotech-driven areas. Whether you're interested in chemical biology, medicinal chemistry, or interdisciplinary innovation, this program allows you to build collaborations, access well-equipped labs, and grow as an independent researcher.
It’s a great way to start your career as a scientist, combining your chemistry training with biological insight for real-world applications.
