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PRL Junior Research Fellowships

PRLJRF

Published: Oct 2026

3 min read

Reviewed by Navin, Editor · First published: 3 Oct 2026

PRL Junior Research Fellowships
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Written by Navin · Editor, tsmpb.inUpdated: 17 Oct 2026 · How we verify scheme facts

About this education scheme

The Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), a prestigious institution under the Department of Space, Government of India, launched the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) Program.

The Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), a prestigious institution under the Department of Space, Government of India, launched the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) Program. The JRF program aims to provide highly motivated and academically excellent candidates with an opportunity to pursue cutting-edge research in a variety of science domains, such as Astronomy and astrophysics, atomic, Molecular, and optical Physics, Geosciences, Planetary Sciences, Space and Atmospheric Sciences, Solar Physics, and Theoretical Physics.

Benefits at a glance

Scheme namePRL Junior Research Fellowships (PRLJRF)
Launched byMinistry Of Science And Technology
DepartmentDepartment of Space
Benefit typeComposite (cash plus goods or services)
CategoryEducation
Level / StateCentral ยท All India
Official portalprl.res.in (link at the end of this page)

Key facts

Scheme typeCentrally Sponsored Scheme
Scheme forInfra
Application modeOnline
Last dateOngoing (no last date notified)
DBT (direct bank transfer)No
Age21 to 25 years

Who can apply (quick check)

  • ๐Ÿ‘คAll genders
  • ๐ŸŽ‚Age 21 to 25 years
  • ๐Ÿ“Online

Quick check from official data. Full conditions are in the Eligibility section.

What you receive

Fellowship Allowance:

โ€ข Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Rs. 37,000/- per month.

โ€ข Senior Research Fellow (SRF, after 2 years): Rs. 42,000/- per month (based on performance review).

Platinum Jubilee Research Fellowship (ATAL):

โ€ข Selected meritorious JRFs may receive an additional ATAL fellowship of Rs. 40,000/- per month (for 3rd to 5th year).

Ph.D. Registration:

โ€ข Fellows have the opportunity to register for a Ph.D. at an institute/university with an MoU with PRL.

Who qualifies

  1. The applicant should be an Indian citizen.
  2. The applicant should have studied at recognized Universities/Institutes in India.
  3. The applicantโ€™s age should be 28 years as of 01st July 2024.
  4. The applicant should complete a Bachelorโ€™s and Masterโ€™s degree in science or engineering with at least 60% marks (or equivalent) at both levels.
  5. Candidates from disciplines of any branch of Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Physics, Photonics, Space Physics, Atmospheric Science, Environmental Science, Oceanography, Meteorology, Geology, Geophysics, Earth Science and Remote Sensing are eligible to apply.
  6. The applicant should be interested in pursuing a research career in the current research areas at PRL, and must have qualified in any one of the following exams:
    • CSIR-UGC-NET JRF/AP (2022 or later) in Physical Sciences/Chemical Sciences/Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean, and Planetary Sciences.
    • GATE (2022 or later) in relevant subjects.
    • JEST (2024) in Physics.
    • UGC-NET JRF/AP (2022 or later) in Environmental Sciences.

Who is not eligible

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Registration walkthrough

Online

Step 1: The applicant visits the PRL website.

Step 2: Click on "Register" and then fill in Personal Details, Qualification Details, and Experience Details.

Step 3: Now select the Preferred Interview dates and then upload a passport-sized image. and other mandatory documents.

Step 4: Submit the application by clicking on the "Submit" button.

User Manual: Click here.

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the JRF program?

The fellowship initially lasts for two years, extendable upon performance review.

Can I apply if Iโ€™m awaiting my Masterโ€™s degree results?

Yes, candidates expecting to complete their Masterโ€™s by August 2024 are eligible.

Is there an age limit for applicants?

Yes, the maximum age is 28 years as of July 1, 2024.

What entrance exams are accepted for the JRF program?

CSIR-UGC-NET JRF/AP, GATE, JEST, UGC-NET JRF/AP in relevant subjects.

Will I get accommodation at PRL?

Hostel accommodation is limited, and external fellows are not eligible for hostel facilities.

Can I choose my research supervisor?

Research supervisors are allocated based on coursework performance and project requirements

Are international students eligible for this program?

No, only Indian citizens are eligible.

How are candidates selected for the program?

Selection is based on academic qualifications, entrance exam performance, and an interview.

Can I defer my JRF offer?

No, offers are valid only for the specified time period, and candidates must join by July 2024.

What research domains are available under this fellowship?

Astronomy, Geosciences, Planetary Sciences, Space Sciences, Atomic and Molecular Physics, Theoretical Physics, etc.

What documents do I need to submit with the application?

Degree certificates, entrance exam proof, ID proof, photograph, and recommendation letters (if applicable).

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