The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has announced the Prime Minister Professorship programme to strengthen research and innovation ecosystems in emerging institutions.
The programme is designed to bring the expertise of eminent, active, and superannuated scientists/faculty members to institutions where research and innovation are still at a developing stage. The selected PM Professors will work full-time with the host institution and mentor faculty members and PhD scholars.
The applicant must be at least 55 years of age on the date of application. There is no upper age limit for the PM Professorship.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme | Prime Minister Professorship |
| Organization | Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) |
| Minimum Age | 55 years |
| Upper Age Limit | No upper age limit |
| Tenure | 5 years |
| Performance Review | After 3 years |
| Fellowship | ₹2.50 lakh/month |
| Research Grant | ₹24 lakh/year |
| Overhead | ₹1 lakh/year |
| Host Institution | Eligible ANRF PAIR spoke institutions |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Full-Time Requirement | Yes |
| Administrative Role | Not permitted |
| Other Salary/Fellowship | Not permitted during tenure |
Objectives
The primary objective is to use the expertise of eminent researchers and experienced professionals to improve the research environment of emerging institutions.
The programme particularly seeks to strengthen R&D culture in less-endowed institutions, especially state universities.
The mentor is expected not merely to conduct research independently but to build research capacity within the host institution through mentoring, collaboration, project development and knowledge transfer.
Responsibilities of a PM Professor
The selected PM Professor will have a broad mentoring and research-development role. Key responsibilities include:
- Strengthening research capabilities of the host institution
- Mentoring faculty and students
- Developing research projects
- Promoting interdisciplinary research
- Establishing research infrastructure
- Building sustainable collaborations
PM Professorship Salary and Research Grant
The programme provides substantial financial support.
| Component | Financial Support |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | ₹2,50,000 per month |
| Research Grant | ₹24 lakh per year |
| Overhead | ₹1 lakh per year |
How to apply for PM Professorship?
Applications are submitted online through the ANRF portal. Applicants should first register on the ANRF online portal and then follow:
Menu → Proposal Submission → Form Submission → Select Scheme
The proposal requires several details, including:
- Activity Title
- Five-year projected research plan
- Keywords
- Objectives
- Expected outputs and outcomes
Documents Required
Applicants need to prepare and submit the prescribed documents, including:
- Biodata of PI/Mentor
- Certificate from Team
- Endorsement Letter from Head of Institution
- Details of Research Facilities/Labs and Equipment
- Undertaking from PM Professorship Applicant
- Joining Report