Odisha Biotechnology Research and Innovation Fellowship (OBRIF) Guidelines 2026 | S&T Dept Resolution No.601 Dated 10.02.2026
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Odisha Biotechnology Research and Innovation Fellowship (OBRIF) – Guidelines 2026
Department: Science & Technology Department, Government of Odisha
Resolution No: 601 | Date: 10.02.2026
Published: 10 February 2026 (as per official resolution date) Applicable to: Domicile candidates pursuing full-time Ph.D. in biotechnology & allied life sciences in Odisha
The Science & Technology Department has launched the Odisha Biotechnology Research and Innovation Fellowship (OBRIF) to attract young researchers for Ph.D. studies in emerging areas of biotechnology and allied life sciences.
The fellowship offers ₹30,000 per month + ₹50,000 annual contingency for a 3-year tenure (limited to 20 fellowships per year).
1. Purpose & Objectives
- Promote advanced research in frontier areas of biotechnology.
- Provide financial support to meritorious students for Ph.D. studies.
- Develop skilled human resource base for academia, industry, and society.
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Domicile: Must be a permanent resident of Odisha.
- Registration: Must be a registered full-time Ph.D. candidate in a government university/college or state/central government institute in Odisha.
- Academic Qualification: M.Sc./M.Tech. in Biotechnology or allied sciences with First Division, or 4-year undergraduate degree as per NEP-2020.
- No Dual Support: Applicant must not be receiving financial assistance from any other source.
3. Financial Assistance & Tenure
| Component | Amount | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fellowship | ₹30,000 | 3 years |
| Annual Contingency Grant | ₹50,000 | Per year (chemicals, stationery, travel, registration fees) |
| Institutional Assistance | ₹10,000 | Per year (to host institution for infrastructure) |
| Total Fellowships | Maximum 20 per year | |
4. Selection Process (100 Marks)
- Career Marking (50 marks): Based on % marks in Class 10, +2 Science, +3 Science (Honours), and M.Sc./M.Tech.
- Presentation & Interview (50 marks): Shortlisted candidates (twice the number of fellowships) present research proposals before Project Evaluation & Review Committee (PERC).
- Final Approval: PERC recommendations → approved by Secretary, S&T Department.
Key Conditions:
- Fellows must publish at least **two papers** in reputed journals before Ph.D. thesis submission.
- All publications and IP must acknowledge **S&T Department, Government of Odisha**.
- Transfer to another institution requires prior written permission with strong justification.
- Progress monitored via annual reports, utilization certificates, and Institutional Advisory Committee (IAC) evaluation.
📄 Official Resolution (PDF): View / Download
WhatsApp Telegram Facebook PDFFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the monthly fellowship amount under OBRIF?
The fellowship provides **₹30,000 per month** for a 3-year tenure, along with ₹50,000 annual contingency grant.
2. Who is eligible to apply for OBRIF?
Odisha domicile candidates registered as full-time Ph.D. scholars in government universities/colleges or state/central institutes in Odisha, with M.Sc./M.Tech. (First Division) or 4-year UG degree (NEP-2020), and not receiving other financial support.
3. How many OBRIF fellowships are available per year?
Maximum **20 fellowships** are awarded annually.
4. What is the selection process for OBRIF?
50 marks for career (academic percentages), 50 marks for presentation & interview before PERC. Final approval by Secretary, S&T Department.
5. What are the publication requirements for OBRIF fellows?
Fellows must publish at least **two papers** in reputed journals before submitting their Ph.D. thesis.