India launches $300,000 global fellowship to boost biomedical and public health research

India has unveiled a new global fellowship aimed at bolstering its research and innovation ecosystem.

The India Reimagined Fellowship, launched by Blockchain for Impact (BFI), is designed to attract top scientific and professional talent from around the world to contribute to India’s biomedical and public health sectors.

The program offers a total grant of $300,000 (about ₹2.5 crore) over three years to researchers, clinicians, entrepreneurs, and innovators of Indian or international origin who are willing to relocate and establish projects in India.

The fellowship seeks to help participants build sustainable “impact engines” that tackle key challenges in biomedical science and public health.

Applications will be accepted only through institutional nominations rather than individual submissions, ensuring accountability and institutional support.

Each fellow will receive $100,000 (approximately ₹88 lakh) annually, released directly to the host institution rather than the individual.

The funding will cover project execution, laboratory expenses, salaries, travel, and equipment.

Only institutions with valid FCRA approval can host fellows. Host organizations must maintain a separate project account and submit annual progress and financial reports.

Continued disbursement will depend on expert reviews evaluating research milestones, publications, and overall project impact.

The final installment will be issued after a successful mid-term review and submission of a detailed completion report. The fellowship will follow a structured nomination process.

Institutions are required to identify qualified candidates abroad who are ready to relocate to India, demonstrate institutional commitment, and prepare a nomination package that includes the nominee’s CV, a 10-page research proposal, recommendation letters, and an official commitment letter.

Completed applications should be sent to [email protected] by Jan 31, 2026.

Selections will be made on a rolling basis, with final decisions announced within 12 weeks of submission.

With only three slots available, the India Reimagined Fellowship aims to attract exceptional individuals capable of driving innovation and entrepreneurship within Indian institutions.

By combining international expertise with India’s expanding research ecosystem, the initiative highlights the country’s growing ambition to position itself as a global hub for biomedical and public health innovation.