KSCSTEP-DFP

KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme

5.7/10

KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowships will be provided to those who possess Ph.D. in science and engineering with high quality research publications in SCI journals. The program aims to encourage Ph.D. holders to pursue further research and to develop career as scientist.

State Cash

States / UT: Kerala

Nodal department: Science and Technology Department

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): No

Categories: Education & Learning

Sub-categories: Education and training grants, fellowship, stipend

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: Post-Doctoral, Fellowship, Research, Fellow, Scientist

Details

KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowships will be provided to those who possess a Ph.D. in science and engineering with high-quality research publications in SCI journals. The program aims to encourage Ph.D. holders to pursue further research and to develop careers as scientists. Selection of candidates through screening cum selection committee after evaluating the quality of the proposal, presentation, discussion, details of publications, academic records/recognitions, etc. The Post-Doctoral Fellowship can be availed for research in an institution other than the department or institute in India where the candidate has undergone Ph.D. work.

Objectives of the scheme:

  • To support the research aptitude of Doctorate holders in Science & Technology.
  • To motivate Ph. D holders to pursue research and to develop careers as scientists.
  • To motivate fellows and impart the skills needed for them to become lifelong learners and to develop technical and leadership skills.

Necessary conditions as per the scheme:

  • There should be a Scientist Mentor who is a regular faculty/staff of the institution under whose guidance the researcher should carry out the work. The Scientist Mentor should have at least 5 or more years of service left in the Institution before retirement. The Scientist Mentor should constantly monitor the progress of the project, facilitate smooth implementation of the programme and ensure timely submission of financial utilization certificates by the institute to KSCSTE.
  • Post-Doctoral Fellow availing financial assistance/stipend from other State/Central funding agencies or other sources will not be simultaneously eligible for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship. The Post-Doctoral Fellow should furnish an undertaking to the effect that He/She is not availing financial assistance/stipend from any other source simultaneously.
  • The implementing Institute should provide full infrastructural facilities such as a laboratory, computer, library, communication, accommodation, water, electricity, etc. for smooth implementation of the project.
  • The unutilized portion of the grant (along with the interest accrued) at the end of the project period should be refunded to Council by DD in favor of Member Secretary, KSCSTE
  • Scientists who publish technical/scientific papers based on the research work done under the project should acknowledge the assistance received from KSCSTE.
  • The Post-Doctoral Fellow should not enter into collaboration with a foreign party (individual/ industry) without prior approval of the Council.

Benefits

  • 1. The scheme offers a Post-Doctoral Fellowship of ₹45 000/- + 10 % HRA per month along with an annual contingency grant of ₹75 000/-. 1. The duration of the Fellowship is limited to a maximum of 2 years
  1. The scheme offers a Post-Doctoral Fellowship of ₹45,000/- + 10 % HRA per month along with an annual contingency grant of ₹75,000/-.
  2. The duration of the Fellowship is limited to a maximum of 2 years.

Eligibility

  1. Applicant should be a Permanent Resident of Kerala.
  2. Applicant should have scored a minimum of 60% marks for post-graduation.
  3. Applicant should have qualified Ph.D. in Science/Engineering subjects.
  4. Applicant should not be a permanent employee at the time of application for the scheme.
  5. Age limit: 40 years - (relaxed for 3 years for OBC and 5 years for SC/ST candidate).
  6. Those who have availed Post-Doctoral Fellowship earlier from KSCSTE or elsewhere are not eligible to apply for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship.
  7. Applicant should have published at least one research paper in a SCI Journal/secured patent.
  8. Those who have already availed of one Post-Doctoral Fellowship from KSCSTE or elsewhere are not eligible to apply.
  9. Applicant should have chosen an institution as a research Centre subject to the following:
  • The Research Centre should not be the same as Ph.D Research Centre.
  • Research Centre should preferably be in Kerala, [however, premier National Institutions viz., IISER, IIT, IISc etc. outside the State shall also be considered].
  • Tenable in Government Institutions only.
  • Tenable only in R&D institutions (National/State level) or University Departments.

How useful is this scheme?

Public benefit analysis

A practical look at this scheme for citizens

AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.

5.7
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 5.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 4.0/10 Moderate
Application complexity 6.0/10 Moderate
Financial impact 8.0/10 Good
Literacy barrier 7.0/10 Challenging
Women inclusivity 6.0/10 Moderate
Awareness 4.5/10 Moderate
Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility5.0
  • Financial impact8.0
  • Rural utility4.0
  • Awareness4.5
  • Simplicity4.0
  • Inclusivity6.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme provides financial support for Ph.D. holders in science and engineering to pursue further research, fostering scientific careers.

Key challenges addressed

  • Encourages further research among Ph.D. holders
  • Supports career development in science and technology

Most beneficial for

  • Ph.D. holders in science and engineering
  • Research institutions in Kerala

Likely challenges

  • Eligibility criteria may exclude many potential applicants
  • Complex application process may deter first-time applicants

Practical insights for citizens

Practical for eligible candidates but may be challenging for first-time applicants

Rural challenges

  • Limited access to high-quality research institutions
  • Potential lack of mentorship opportunities in rural areas

Digital challenges

  • High digital dependency may exclude non-tech-savvy applicants

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Complex eligibility and application process may lead to delays

Awareness challenges

  • Limited outreach to potential applicants outside academic circles

Application analysis

Application mode
Online portal
Documents burden
Moderate, requires specific academic documents
Verification complexity
High, involves peer review and committee evaluation
Office dependency
Low, primarily online
DBT dependency
No direct benefit transfer involved
CSC support
Limited, primarily online application
Estimated citizen effort
High due to documentation and peer review process

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach Moderate
  • Target income group Middle to high-income individuals
  • Occupation reach Academics and researchers

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Cash
Benefit frequency
Monthly stipend plus annual grant
Benefit practicality
Financially meaningful for research activities
Financial meaningfulness
7
Long-term impact
Encourages sustained research and development in science and technology

Plain-language guidance

The KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship provides financial support for Ph.D. holders in science and engineering to conduct research. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and apply online.

Who should apply
Ph.D. holders in science and engineering from Kerala
Who may struggle
First-time applicants unfamiliar with online applications or those lacking necessary documentation
Best application route
Apply via the KSCSTE online portal

This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.

Application Process

Online

Eligible applicants may apply online in the KSCSTE web portal for New applications at the following link: https://submit.kscste.kerala.gov.in

Scrutiny of the Application:

Preliminary scrutiny of the application is carried out for verification of basic eligibility conditions and supporting documents.

Peer review:

All eligible applications are subjected to peer review by five subject experts (3 within &2 outside the state) in the relevant area of research. Proposals with at least three reviews graded greater than 5 (on 10 point scale) are only considered for further processing.

Presentation before Expert Committee:

Proposals that have passed the peer review requirements will be invited for presentation before the Programme Advisory Committee. One or two reviewers will serve as additional Subject Expert during the PAC meeting. On favorable recommendation by the PAC, the proposal will be considered for funding by KSCSTE. The applicants will be informed of the decision and will be asked to execute an Agreement as per the guidelines of the scheme.

Contact Details:

Scientist-in-charge (KSCSTE-PDF),
Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment
Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram - 695004
Tel: +91-471-2548402,
Email: jaya.kscste@kerala.gov.in

For queries:

E-mail: jaya.kscste@kerala.gov.in,
Tel: 0471- 2548402

Clarifications

Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).

What is the aim of the programme?

The program programme to encourage Ph.D. holders to pursue further research and to develop career as scientist.

What is the objective of the programme?

The objective of the scheme is to support the research aptitude of Doctorate holders in Science & Technology, To motivate Ph. D holders to pursue research and to develop career as scientists and to motivate fellows and impart the skills needed for them to become lifelong learners and to develop technical and leadership skills.

Which is the implementing agency of this programme?

Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE)

Who is eligible to get the benefits under the programme?

The applicant who has qualified Ph.D. in Science / Engineering subjects and has scored a minimum of 60% marks for post-graduation is eligible to apply.

What is the maximum age criterion to apply under the programme?

The age of the candidate should be below 40 years.

Is there any age relaxation for SC/ST/OBC categories under the programme?

Yes, relaxation in age is up to a maximum of 3 years for OBC and 5 years for SC/ST.

Is this programme only for the resident of Kerala State?

Yes, only the permanent Resident of Kerala can apply under the programme.

What is the qualification required to apply for the programme?

The applicants should have qualified Ph.D. in Science / Engineering subjects.

What should be the minimum marks for post-graduation?

The applicant should have scored minimum 60% marks for post-graduation.

How much will the monthly fellowship be given to the eligible fellow?

The scheme offers Post-doctoral fellowship of ₹45,000/- + 10 % HRA per month.

How much will the contingency grant to be paid under the programme?

Annual contingency grant of ₹75,000/- will also be paid under the programme.

What is the duration of the fellowship?

Duration of the Fellowship is limited to maximum 2 years.

Which subjects are to be considered under the programme?

The subject categories (i) Earth & Atmospheric Sciences (ii) Engineering Sciences (iii) Life Sciences (iv) Physical, Chemical & Mathematical sciences.

How can an applicant apply for the programme?

Eligible applicants may apply online in the KSCSTE web portal for New applications in the following link: https://submit.kscste.kerala.gov.in

Where can an applicant contact regarding this programme?

Scientist-in-charge (KSCSTE-PDF), Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment, Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram - 695004, Tel: +91-471-2548402, Email: jaya.kscste@kerala.gov.in

References

Official Website
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/post-doctoral-fellowship/
Guideline
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/KSCSTE_PDF_GUIDELINES_23.pdf
Declaration By The Applicant
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_DECLARATION.pdf
Consent From Scientist Mentor
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_CONSENT_22.pdf
Endorsement From Head Of Institution
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_ENDORSEMENT_22.pdf
Terms & Conditions
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDFTC_23.pdf
E-payment Form
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/E-payment-form.pdf
Statement Of Expenditure & Utilization Certificate
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_SEUC_21.pdf
Annual Progress Report (Project Year)
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_APR_21.pdf
Statement Of Expenditure & Utilization Certificate, Consolidated Statement Of Expenditure
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_SE_UC_final21.pdf
Annual Progress Report For The 2nd Year
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_APR_21.pdf
Project Completion Report
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_Prjct_Comple_Report21.pdf
Final Technical Report (FTR)
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_FTR_20.pdf
Asset Transfer Certificate(if Any)
https://kscste.kerala.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/PDF_AsstTransfrCertifcate_21.pdf

Apply

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Individual through benefits related to Education & Learning, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Eligibility for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
What benefits are offered under KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Benefits under KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
Which department manages KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme is managed by Science and Technology Department and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
Where can users apply for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Applications for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
What documents may be required for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
Is income certificate required for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Income certificate requirements may vary depending on beneficiary category, subsidy eligibility, and financial assistance criteria defined under KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme.
Is KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme available in all states?
No, KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme is primarily available for eligible residents of Kerala and may be implemented through state government departments and local administrative offices.
Can residents outside Kerala apply for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Eligibility for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme is generally limited to residents of Kerala unless otherwise specified in the official scheme guidelines.
Can students apply for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Eligible students studying in recognised institutions may apply for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme depending on educational qualification, category, income limit, and academic eligibility.
Is scholarship amount provided under KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme may provide scholarship assistance, tuition support, educational reimbursement, or financial aid for eligible students.
Can CSC centres help users apply for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
How can users check the latest updates for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme in Kerala?
Users in Kerala may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
Which nearby public services may help with KSCSTE Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme applications?
Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.