Nehru fellowship to spur research by sponsoring global scientists

The department of science and technology (DST) has instituted the Jawaharlal Nehru Science Fellowship to promote scientific research in centres of excellence in India. Eminent scientists, based abroad, of any nationality can apply for the fellowship.

The department of science and technology (DST) has instituted the Jawaharlal Nehru Science Fellowship to promote scientific research in centres of excellence in India. Eminent scientists, based abroad, of any nationality can apply for the fellowship.

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The fellowship provides $100,000 for 12 months and offers flexibility to avail the amount over a period of three years. It also provides `55 lakh grant for research in any branch of natural sciences and mathematics.

T Ramasami, secretary, department of science and technology, told Hindustan Times: “The fellowship, open to scientists of any nationality, is only for high performers. The scientists will create an ambience for where the faculty and students can raise the correct questions. Science is actually about hitting at the right question and getting the right answer. I am sure the selected scientists because of their vast experience will be able to generate that environment.”

The department wants to initiate the scheme by January 2014. It is thinking of placing advertisements in leading international journals and also of approaching renowned scientists. There would be a total of 25 fellowships for the period 2014-17.

The selected scientist can choose their place of research, theme and collaboration anywhere in India. The host institutions for the fellows would need to provide the necessary infrastructure, furnished housing and administrative support. The DST would provide `10 lakh to the host institute to cover the expenses of such support.