Prime Minister Professorships

The Prime Minister Professorships is a significant initiative by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) aimed at enhancing research and innovation in emerging institutions and state universities across India.

About the Prime Minister Professorships:

• Purpose:

  • The initiative is designed to foster world-class research and innovation by leveraging the expertise of eminent scientists, senior faculty, and industry professionals. It primarily focuses on mentoring and guiding faculty and students in less-endowed state universities, to enhance their research culture and development.

  Objective:

  • To tap into the extensive knowledge and experience of eminent scientists, including retired or superannuated professionals, along with senior faculty from private and government institutions. Their goal is to build strong research capabilities in emerging institutions and promote innovation.

  Duration:

  • The tenure of the Prime Minister Professorship is up to 5 years, based on performance evaluated by an expert committee.

  Age Limit:

  • There is no upper age limit for applicants as long as they are superannuated at the time of application.

  Funding Support:

  • Each Prime Minister Professor will receive:

    • A fellowship of Rs. 30 lakh per annum.

    • Research grant of Rs. 24 lakh per annum (for consumables, domestic travel, contingencies, and equipment).

    • An overhead grant of Rs. 1 lakh annually for the program.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Who can apply:

  • Superannuated faculty or scientists from prestigious Indian institutions, research laboratories, or private institutions.

  • Overseas scientists including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs).

  • Professionals from industry, Professor of Practice with a distinguished record in research and innovation.

  Research Involvement:

  • Applicants must have a strong track record of active research and innovation and be committed to mentoring faculty at state universities with nascent research and innovation cultures.

  Eligible Host Institutions:

  • State universities that have been selected as spoke institutions under the PAIR (Promotion of Academic Innovation and Research) program of the ANRF.

  Relocation Requirement:

  • Applicants must be willing to relocate to the host institution on a full-time basis and contribute to the institution’s research capabilities and innovation culture.

Significance:

This program is a game-changer for state universities in India, especially those with limited research facilities. By bringing in eminent professionals and experienced mentors, the Prime Minister Professorships will transform the research landscape of these universities and create an environment of collaborative innovation.