The National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), both part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Bengaluru, have announced an exciting new fellowship program. Applications are now open for the AI in Biology Postdoctoral Fellowship Program.
This prestigious two-year fellowship is designed to nurture early-career researchers who are pioneering the integration of artificial intelligence with biological science. The deadline to submit an application is 15th February 2026. This program represents a premier opportunity for PhD holders to advance interdisciplinary research at the cutting-edge of science and technology in India.
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AI in Biology Fellowship 2026 Overview
The AI in Biology Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, under the CALIBRE initiative, is a collaborative effort between NCBS and ICTS. It aims to bridge the gap between computational sciences and biological research, fostering innovation at this crucial intersection.
| Fellowship Name | AI in Biology Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2026 |
|---|---|
| Conducting Bodies | National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) & International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), Bengaluru |
| Parent Institute | Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) |
| Program Duration | 2 Years |
| Application Mode | Online (via email/portal) |
| Official Portal | NCBS Academic Page |
#PostdocFellowship@NCBS_Bangalore in collaboration with @ictstifr is inviting applications for the AI in Biology Postdoctoral Fellowship Program.
— National Centre for Biological Sciences (@NCBS_Bangalore) January 22, 2026
🔗 Application link and more details: https://t.co/u8ioeqMCFF
🗓️ Apply by : 15 February 2026 pic.twitter.com/RPQQ3DNRnm
NCBS-ICTS Fellowship 2026: Important Dates
Interested candidates must adhere to the following deadline. Late submissions are unlikely to be considered.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 15 February 2026 |
Fellowship Value & Benefits
The fellowship offers a comprehensive support package designed to allow researchers to focus entirely on their work without financial constraints.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fellowship | ₹1,25,000 (consolidated) |
| Annual Research Grant | ₹3,00,000 per year for research expenses, conference travel, and scientific events |
| Academic Environment | Access to world-class facilities and mentorship at NCBS and ICTS |
| Professional Development | Opportunity to participate in teaching, workshops, and outreach programs |
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AI in Biology Postdoctoral Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for the fellowship:
- Educational Qualification: A PhD in any of the Natural Sciences (e.g., Biology, Physics, Chemistry) or Computer Sciences.
- Research Record: An outstanding research record with demonstrated excellence in their chosen field.
- Proposal: Ability to develop an innovative research proposal that aligns with the CALIBRE program’s mandate of integrating AI with biology.
How to Apply for the NCBS AI in Biology Fellowship
The application process requires careful preparation of a detailed package. Candidates are strongly advised to contact their proposed mentors at NCBS and/or ICTS well in advance of applying.
The complete application package must include the following documents:
- Latest Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Full-text versions of 1-3 first-author publications
- Research Proposal Lay Summary (1 page or less)
- Detailed Research Proposal (3 pages)
- Details of the proposed Fellowship Supervisor(s). It is desirable to have a main advisor and a co-advisor from NCBS and ICTS respectively.
- A Letter of Support from your proposed host faculty member.
- At least 2 Letters of Reference.
Submission Method: Applications should be submitted as per the instructions on the official NCBS webpage. For queries, contact acadoffice@ncbs.res.in.
AI in Biology Postdoctoral Fellowship Structure and Expectations
- Mentorship: Fellows will work closely with renowned faculty mentors from NCBS and ICTS, benefiting from a dual-institution perspective.
- Research Focus: The core of the fellowship is an original research project that innovatively applies AI, machine learning, or computational models to biological questions.
- Community Engagement: Fellows are expected to actively participate in the broader CALIBRE community activities, which may include assisting in courses, organizing seminars, and engaging in scientific outreach.
Why Apply for NCBS AI in Biology Postdoctoral Fellowship?
This program is more than just funding; it’s an entry into a elite network of interdisciplinary scientists.
- Interdisciplinary Leadership: Position yourself at the forefront of the AI-Biology revolution.
- Institutional Prestige: Work within the TIFR system, known for its research excellence and academic freedom.
- Career Launchpad: The combination of generous funding, high-profile mentorship, and professional development activities is designed to propel fellows towards independent research careers in academia or industry.
FAQs
Q1. What is the AI in Biology Postdoctoral Fellowship?
A1. It is a 2-year, fully-funded postdoctoral program run by NCBS and ICTS, Bengaluru, to support researchers working on projects that integrate Artificial Intelligence with biological sciences.
Q2. Who is eligible to apply?
A2. Candidates with a PhD in Natural Sciences or Computer Sciences and an outstanding research record are eligible. They must develop a research proposal fitting the AI-Biology theme.
Q3. What is the fellowship amount?
A3. Fellows receive a consolidated ₹1,25,000 per month, plus an annual grant of ₹3,00,000 for research and travel.
Q4. What is the application deadline?
A4. The last date to submit the complete application package is 15 February 2026.
Q5. Is it mandatory to have a mentor before applying?
A5. Yes. Applicants must identify and contact potential mentors at NCBS/ICTS and obtain a letter of support from the proposed host. Having a co-advisor from the other institute is desirable.
