Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is receiving nominations for the prestigious National Science Chair (NSC).
NSC is a flagship initiative that recognizes distinguished senior scientists and academicians for their exceptional contributions.
The scheme is open to eminent resident Indian scientists working in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), and Medicine.
The ANRF National Science Chair is awarded for an initial tenure of three years, with the possibility of a two-year extension.
Applications for the ANRF National Science Chair are open from 7 July 2026 and will close on 6 August 2026.
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Two Categories Under National Science Chair
Mode-1: Scientific Excellence
This category supports highly accomplished senior scientists who wish to continue active research after retirement.
Eligibility
- Resident Indian scientist or academician.
- More than 65 years of age (or reaching 65 within six months after the nomination closing date).
- Outstanding research contributions during the last five years.
- Strong publication, patent, technology, software, or policy record.
- National or international scientific recognition.
- Affiliation with, or consent from, a host institution.
Mode-2: Science Leadership
This category honors eminent scientists whose careers have demonstrated exceptional scientific leadership and global impact.
Eligibility
- Resident Indian scientist or academician.
- Outstanding achievements during the last ten years.
- International scientific reputation.
- Fellowships in prestigious academies or major scientific awards.
- Affiliation with or consent from a host institution.
Financial Support
| Support | Mode-1 | Mode-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Fellowship | ₹1.5 lakh per month | ₹1.5 lakh per month |
| Research Grant | ₹25 lakh per year | ₹5 lakh per year |
| Institutional Overhead | ₹1 lakh per year | ₹1 lakh per year |
Number of Positions
ANRF will support:
- 30 National Science Chairs under Mode-1 (Scientific Excellence)
- 5 National Science Chairs under Mode-2 (Science Leadership)
Who Can Nominate?
Nominations can be submitted by distinguished scientific leaders, including:
- Presidents and former Presidents of national science academies
- Directors of IISc, IITs, IISERs, NITs and National Laboratories
- Vice-Chancellors of Universities
- Members of Scientific Advisory Councils
- Secretaries to the Government of India
- Members of ANRF governing bodies
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Outstanding research achievements
- International scientific reputation
- Quality and originality of the proposed research (Mode-1)
- Ability to mentor young researchers
- Contributions toward strengthening India’s scientific ecosystem
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Research Proposal (up to five pages) (Mode-1 only)
- Certificate from the Nominee
- Endorsement Certificate from the Host Institution
- Academic, employment and publication details
- Patent and scientific recognition information
How to Apply
Applications are accepted online only through the ANRF portal.
Applicants should:
- Register on the ANRF online portal.
- Complete their user profile.
- Select the National Science Chair scheme.
- Upload all required documents.
- Send the completed nomination to the nominator for approval.
- The nominator submits the application to ANRF.
Official Notification: https://anrfonline.in/ANRF/nationalScienceChair?HomePage=New