ESSO–NCESS JRF Explained: Research Funding for Earth Science Scholars
Get a complete guide to the ESSO–NCESS Junior Research Fellowship—objectives, eligibility, financial support, and how to apply for this prestigious opportunity
- What is the ESSO–NCESS Junior Research Fellowship?
- Objectives of the Fellowship
- Eligibility Criteria & Financial Support
- How to Apply
- Selection Process
- Importance of the Fellowship
- FAQs
What is the ESSO–NCESS Junior Research Fellowship?
The ESSO-NCESS Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) is a prestigious opportunity for research offered by the Earth System Sciences Organisation (ESSO) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Government of India, which is implemented by the National Centre for Earth Science Studies (NCESS), Kerala, one of the premier research institutes in India dedicated to research on earth systems.
This fellowship aims to enable young researchers to pursue doctoral or postdoctoral research in the latest fields of earth sciences, including igneous and metamorphic petrology, sedimentology, palaeoclimatology, geomorphology, oceanography, remote sensing, and atmospheric sciences. NCESS provides outstanding facilities and expert guidance for fellows, which will help to further India’s research footprint in the field of earth system sciences.
Objectives of the Fellowship
- To support advanced research in different areas of Earth sciences, deepening scientific knowledge of processes ranging from crustal dynamics to climate systems.
- To support research excellence, we provide JRF-eligible candidates with the opportunity to conduct research at NCESS, utilising world-class facilities, laboratories, and multidisciplinary mentoring.
- To develop future Earth science leaders that are the capacity to address issues at the national and global scale, such as climate change, environmental sustainability, and resource management.
Eligibility Criteria & Financial Support
Eligibility Requirements
- Must possess a first-class M.Sc. or M.Tech. (degree) in Earth System Sciences or allied disciplines.
- Must have qualified the CSIR–UGC NET JRF or must possess a valid DST INSPIRE Fellowship.
- Age limit: 30 years (relaxable by 5 years for SC/ST/Women/PwD and 3 years for OBC).
Financial Support
- For the first two years: ₹25,000 per month (consolidated) + admissible HRA, leave, and other benefits.
- For the following years: ₹28,000 per month (consolidated) + HRA and benefits, based on satisfactory performance.
- A contingency grant of additional allotment for fieldwork, lab work, travel, and other research needs is also provided.
How to Apply
- Applications are accepted for the fellowship throughout the year.
- You can download the application form from the NCESS website, fill it, sign it, and send the hard copy by post to the Director, NCESS, Thiruvananthapuram.
- You should include attested copies of academic certificates, proof of category (if applicable), and valid contact details (email and phone number).
Documents Required
- Completed and signed the application form.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (UG, PG).
- CSIR NET JRF or DST INSPIRE award qualification.
- Proof of age (birth certificate/Class X) and proof of category (if applicable).
- Particulars of contact: phone number and email.
- (Optional) Proof of work experience (if applicable).
Selection Process
- Shortlisting: Academic record and NET/DST qualification.
- Interview: The interview takes place 2-3 times a year, generally but not always after the NET results have been declared. Shortlisted candidates must attend an interview at NCESS, which will pay travel fare (2nd class/sleeper).
- Final Selection: Fellowships will be offered to candidates who are able to demonstrate the ability to perform well in the interview and whose area of expertise matches the ongoing research programmes at NCESS.
Importance of the Fellowship
The ESSO–NCESS JRF is far more than funding it is a way to jump-start high-impact research in one of the most important fields of science, Earth systems. And, you get tangible experience in state-of-the-art facilities, fieldwork opportunities, and access to world-leading mentors.
By cultivating talent in highly specialised areas, such as palaeoclimatology and oceanography, the fellowship increases India’s capabilities to confront major challenges related to climate change, natural hazards, and sustainable uses of resource use, while, more generally, beginning pathways to career development in academia, government research, and beyond.
FAQs
Q: Who can apply for this fellowship?
Ans: Candidates with a first/second class M.Sc/M. Tech. in Earth System Sciences (or associated disciplines) qualified via CSIR–UGC NET JRF and/or DST INSPIRE Fellowship, are eligible.
Q: What is the monthly stipend?
Ans: ₹25,000/month for the first two years; thereafter, ₹28,000/month (subject to progress) and also HRA, and other benefits.
Q: Is there an age restriction?
Ans: Yes. Maximum 30 years, with age relaxation (5 years for SC/ST/Women/PwD, and 3 years for OBC).
Q: Is it an online submission process?
Ans: No, applicants will have to download and fill application and send by post hard copy application form to NCESS.
Q: Is NET or DST INSPIRE necessary?
Ans: Yes, only those candidates will be eligible who have NET JRF or have DST INSPIRE.
Conclusion
The ESSO–NCESS Junior Research Fellowship is a unique chance for upcoming Earth scientists to broaden the knowledge frontier of geology, oceanography, and environmental sciences. With a combination of funding and world-class infrastructure it allows young researchers to add value to the collective response to scientific questions both nationally and globally.
For those wanting to pursue a PhD in Earth sciences that has real-world application, this fellowship is a valuable platform to build a leading research career.
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