Department of Biotechnology invites BioCARe 2026-27 applications for women researchers upto 55 years

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, has started inviting applications for the DBT-BioCARe Programme 2026-27. The programme will support unemployed women researchers and help them continue their research careers in biotechnology and other related areas.

The programme is mainly for researchers who will be getting a research grant for the first time. This programme is open to Indian women researchers who have not attained the age of 55 years and are residing in India.

The women applicants should also be unemployed till the application closing date. The research support will continue for up to three years, and the fellowship will run along with the approved research project.

This information was announced through an official notification on August 25, 2026. Eligible researchers can apply online through the Common Fellowship Portal, fellowships.gov.in. The last date to submit the applications is September 23, 2026.

Eligibility for DBT BioCARe 2026-27

Applicants who have relevant qualifications in biotechnology, life sciences, or related fields can apply for this programme. There are two categories under which the applications can be accepted. Under category 1, candidates with a PhD in Biotechnology, Life Sciences/  allied/ interdisciplinary sciences, and those with MD, MDS, or M VSc qualifications can apply

Under category 2, candidates who hold an M.Tech in Biotechnology or allied areas or have an M Pharma or an equivalent qualification are eligible to apply. Candidates who are currently enrolled in higher studies or a PhD, or who have previously received a government research grant as a Principal Investigator, receiving another fellowship, will not be considered eligible.

BioCARe programme support

The programme will offer combined financial support that will cover fellowship expenses and recurring and non-recurring costs related to the approved research project. This support will help women researchers pursue independent research work in biotechnology and allied fields.

Candidates can check the detailed terms and conditions available on the DBT website. For further queries, applicants can also contact the DBT-Human Resource Development PMU, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, at biocare.dbt@rcb.res.in or call +91-129-2848531/536.