Our Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Fellowships provide a platform for scholars to engage in cutting-edge research across Social Sciences, Management, Law & Legal Studies, Media, and Economics. Fellows receive mentorship from leading academicians, access to extensive research resources, and opportunities to contribute to transformative discourse.
With a focus on innovative methodologies, policy analysis, and thought leadership, our program empowers scholars to drive meaningful change in academia, industry, and governance. Fellowships are available as per UGC Norms.
Our fellowship programs support research across these interdisciplinary domains
Exploring societal dynamics, cultural phenomena, historical perspectives, and human behavior through rigorous qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
Investigating organizational behavior, leadership, business strategy, and management practices with a focus on integrating traditional wisdom with contemporary approaches.
Analyzing legal frameworks, policy development, governance structures, and regulatory mechanisms across national and international contexts.
Examining media systems, communication patterns, digital transformation, and information dissemination in the evolving global landscape.
Studying economic systems, market dynamics, financial structures, and developmental economics with an emphasis on sustainable and inclusive growth models.
Supporting research that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries to address complex societal challenges through innovative approaches and methodologies.
Explore our range of fellowship opportunities designed to support scholars at different stages
Our Doctoral Fellowship is designed for scholars pursuing Ph.D. research in fields aligned with VRF's focus areas. This fellowship provides financial support, academic guidance, and research resources to help doctoral candidates complete high-quality dissertations that contribute meaningfully to their fields.
3-5 years, subject to annual review and satisfactory progress
The Post-Doctoral Fellowship is designed for researchers who have recently completed their doctoral studies and wish to pursue advanced research in their specialized fields. This fellowship supports innovative research projects that align with VRF's research priorities and have the potential for significant academic and societal impact.
1-2 years, with potential for extension based on project requirements
Our Visiting Fellowship is designed for established scholars from other institutions who wish to spend a period at VRF collaborating on research projects, contributing to our academic activities, and engaging with our research community. This fellowship facilitates knowledge exchange and builds research partnerships.
1-6 months, based on the nature of the proposed collaboration
Comprehensive support for your research journey
Stipends and research grants provided as per UGC norms to support your research activities and living expenses.
Guidance from leading academicians and researchers in your field to enhance the quality and impact of your work.
Access to our extensive library, digital databases, research facilities, and equipment necessary for your research.
Connect with scholars, policymakers, and industry experts through VRF's extensive professional network.
Assistance with publishing your research in reputed journals and through VRF's publication channels.
Financial support to present your research at national and international conferences and academic forums.
Become part of a vibrant academic community that fosters intellectual exchange and collaborative research.
Workshops and training sessions to enhance your research, analytical, writing, and presentation skills.
Follow these steps to apply for our fellowship programs
Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the fellowship program you're interested in. Requirements vary by fellowship type and research area.
Develop a comprehensive research proposal (5-7 pages) outlining your research objectives, methodology, timeline, expected outcomes, and relevance to VRF's focus areas.
Fill out the online application form with your personal information, academic background, research experience, and other relevant details.
Upload your CV, academic transcripts, research proposal, writing samples, and letters of recommendation from academic referees.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview with the fellowship selection committee to discuss their research proposal and academic goals.
Successful candidates will receive an official fellowship offer with details regarding stipend, duration, start date, and other relevant information.
Next application deadline: September 15, 2025
Find answers to common questions about our fellowship programs
Eligibility requirements vary by fellowship type. For Doctoral Fellowships, candidates must have completed their master's degree with excellent academic standing and been accepted into a recognized doctoral program. Post-Doctoral Fellowships require a completed Ph.D. degree (or scheduled defense) with a strong research track record. Visiting Fellowships are open to established scholars affiliated with academic or research institutions. All applicants should demonstrate research interests aligned with VRF's focus areas.
Fellowship stipends are provided as per UGC norms, which may be revised periodically. Currently, Doctoral Fellows receive approximately ₹31,000-35,000 per month (plus HRA as applicable), while Post-Doctoral Fellows receive ₹45,000-50,000 per month (plus HRA as applicable). Additional research grants for fieldwork, conference travel, and research materials are available based on approved research proposals. Visiting Fellows receive customized support packages based on duration and specific requirements.
Yes, international scholars are welcome to apply for our fellowships. However, they must ensure they meet all visa requirements for research in India. International applicants are encouraged to contact the fellowship office before applying to discuss their specific circumstances and any additional requirements. We particularly welcome applications from scholars whose research focuses on comparative or global perspectives related to our focus areas.
Fellows are required to submit quarterly progress reports and an annual comprehensive report detailing their research activities, findings, challenges, and outputs. They must also participate in VRF's research seminars to present their work at least twice a year. Doctoral Fellows must provide updates on their academic progress within their university programs. Post-Doctoral Fellows are expected to produce publishable research outputs during their fellowship period. All fellows must acknowledge VRF's support in any publications or presentations resulting from their fellowship research.
Yes, we encourage innovative and interdisciplinary approaches within our broad focus areas. While your research should align with one or more of VRF's research domains, we welcome novel perspectives and methodologies. We particularly value research that bridges traditional disciplinary boundaries or explores emerging areas within established fields. Applicants are encouraged to discuss their research ideas with our team before formal application if they are uncertain about the fit with our focus areas.
For Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Fellowships, we typically expect fellows to commit full-time to their research at VRF. However, exceptions may be considered for part-time teaching or consulting roles that enhance the fellowship experience and do not interfere with research progress. Visiting Fellowships are specifically designed for scholars who maintain primary affiliations with other institutions. In all cases, any existing employment or commitments should be clearly disclosed in your application for consideration by the selection committee.
