ICMR-DHR Medical Research Fellowships 2026
Want to build a career in biomedical and health research after MBBS or MD? The Department of Health Research (DHR) and ICMR have released multiple fellowship and research support programs for medical professionals and biomedical researchers across India. These fellowships provide research funding, international training exposure, travel grants, and career advancement opportunities in healthcare research. Medical professionals can apply for short-term and long-term fellowships in India and abroad based on their qualifications and experience. This is an excellent opportunity for doctors and researchers interested in biomedical innovation and academic research.
About the Organization:
Indian Council of Medical Research under the Department of Health Research (DHR), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, is one of the country’s leading biomedical research organizations. ICMR supports healthcare innovation, scientific advancement, and medical research through fellowships, grants, training programs, and academic initiatives for doctors, scientists, and researchers.
Fellowship Details:
- Program Type: Medical Research Fellowships & Biomedical Research Support Programs
- Eligible Candidates: MBBS, MD, MS, MDS, DNB, Biomedical Researchers, Scientists
- Fellowship Location: India & Abroad
- Application Mode: Online Application through DHR/ICMR Portal
| Category | Duration | Age Limit | Fellowship Stipend / Financial Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Fellowship Abroad | 15 days to 3 months | Below 57 years | US$ 3000 per month |
| Long-Term Fellowship Abroad | 6 to 12 months | Below 45 years | US$ 3000 per month |
| Short-Term Fellowship at Indian Institutes | 15 days to 3 months | Below 45 years | Rs. 40,000 per month |
| Long-Term Fellowship at Indian Institutes | 6 to 12 months | Below 45 years | Rs. 40,000 per month |
| Women Scientists Fellowship – Category A | Up to 5 years depending on category | 30 to 45 years | Rs. 90,000 per month for medical professionals |
| Women Scientists Fellowship – Category B | Up to 5 years depending on category | 30 to 45 years | Rs. 65,000 per month for medical professionals |
| NRI/PIO/OCI Research Support Programme | 3 years extendable by 2 years | Below 45 years | Rs. 1.2 lakh per month |
| Fellowship for Best Achievement in Biomedical Research | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| International Travel Grant Support | As per event/travel duration | Not Specified | Up to Rs. 1.5 lakh |
| Workshops Funding Grant in Biomedical Research | As per workshop duration | Not Specified | Up to Rs. 10 lakh per workshop |
| Start-Up Grant for Biomedical & Health Research | 3 years | Not Specified | Up to Rs. 48 lakh for 3 years |
Additional Benefits Included:
- Airfare reimbursement
- Visa and insurance support
- Contingency grants
- Research project funding
- Conference participation support
End Date / Application Deadline for the Medical Research Fellowship:
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official DHR/ICMR notification portal for category-wise application deadlines and fellowship announcements as timelines vary for each program.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct biomedical and healthcare research projects
- Participate in clinical and translational research activities
- Publish research findings in indexed journals
- Attend workshops, conferences, and scientific training programs
- Collaborate with Indian and international research institutions
- Work on healthcare innovation and disease research projects
- Contribute to evidence-based medical advancements
Educational Requirements for this Medical Research Fellowship:
- MBBS, MD, MS, MDS, DNB qualifications
- PhD in biomedical or health research is required for selected categories
- Research experience preferred for advanced fellowships
- Medical professionals and biomedical scientists eligible according to fellowship criteria
- Indian citizenship is required for most categories
Skills Required:
- Clinical and biomedical research expertise
- Scientific writing and publication knowledge
- Understanding of research methodology and statistics
- Data analysis and documentation skills
- Communication and presentation abilities
- Ability to work in multidisciplinary healthcare research teams
Benefits of the Medical Research Fellowship:
- Opportunity to work on advanced biomedical research projects
- National and international research exposure
- Attractive fellowship stipends and research grants
- Career advancement in medical research and academics
- International conference and workshop participation support
- Networking with top medical researchers and institutions
- Hands-on experience in healthcare innovation and translational medicine
- Government-supported fellowship and research ecosystem
