The M.S. Swaminathan Fellowship will offer a transformative 24-month experience. The fellows will be mentored by senior scientists at the foundation, trustees and relevant partner organizations, and will receive practical and hands-on experience in our regional centres. This fellowship will empower talented young post-graduates to drive impactful research and development programmes that benefit local communities. The Fellowship is intended for individuals broadly interested in Wetlands and Coastal Ecosystems with a desire to develop research acumen on topics that that fosters science-society interactions.

Details of the Fellowship

• Last Date of Submission: 7th Oct 2026
• Job Code: MSSF-06-2026
• Minimum Qualification: Post graduate degree in Environmental Sciences/Marine Biology /Ecology/ Environment Conservation/ Natural sciences with a good academic record.
• Age : Aspiring candidates should be in the age group of 23-32 years with age relaxation up to three years for women candidates and SC/ST candidates.
• Fellowship : INR 37,000/- per month + HRA as per institutional norms (annual assessment is mandatory to continue the benefits during the fellowship period).
• Duration: 24 months and co-terminus with the end date of the fellowship.
• Location: MSSRF Chennai office and Site Offices

Mode of Application

Applications must be submitted online in the webpage as a single PDF document containing: Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV), Statement of Purpose (SoP) A short proposal outlining the candidate’s area of interest, Two relevant reference letters. Applicants must clearly mention the application code “MSSF-06-2026” in their application. The complete application must be submitted on or before 7th Oct 2026.

About the Organization

The M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) was established in 1988 as a not-for-profit trust by Professor M. S. Swaminathan. The Foundation aims to accelerate the use of modern science for agricultural and rural development, as well as the adaptation and dissemination of technology to improve lives and livelihoods of tribal and rural communities. MSSRF follows a pro-poor, pro-women and pro-nature approach and applies appropriate science and technology options to address practical problems faced by rural populations in agriculture, natural resources, food and nutrition. The Foundation works in the areas of Integrated Coastal systems management, Agro-biodiversity, Conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, Ecotechnology and Agriculture, Health and Nutrition / Economics, with application of cutting-edge biotechnology and digital technologies across programme areas. MSSRF is currently working in six states of India.