Pharm'Up 
The Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Hyderabad, a premier research institution under the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) of the Department of Biotechnology, is inviting applications for its fully residential Research Scholars Program (Ph.D. admissions), commencing in February / March 2026. CDFD focuses on cutting-edge research in modern biology, and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds (Science, Technology, Agriculture, and Medicine) to apply. Those admitted will register under the PhD program of the Regional Centre for Biotechnology.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the CDFD Ph.D.-I-2026 admission, candidates must meet both criteria below:
- Educational Qualification: Possess a Master’s degree in any branch of Science, Technology, or Agriculture OR an MBBS degree from a recognized University / Institute.
- Fellowship Requirement: Must have qualified for a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) with a fellowship from CSIR / UGC / DBT / ICMR / DST- INSPIRE / UGC – RGNF, or any other similar examination.
- A valid fellowship is an absolute requirement for pursuing a Ph.D. at CDFD.
- Ineligible Qualifications: Candidates who qualified only for Project – JRF (under the ICMR funded project Scheme), DBT JRF NET with only a B.Tech. [Biotechnology] degree, DBT JRF NET under the DBT – B category list, or LS-NET qualification only in the CSIR-UGC (NET) examination are NOT eligible to apply.
- If a fellowship result is AWAITED, the status must be updated before the first interview round via email to rsp@cdfd.org.in.
Selection and Application Procedure
Admission is based on a two-step selection process:
- Round I: Online Interview (Video Conference): Scheduled to be held during November 7 – 12, 2025. The exact dates will be announced later. The list of candidates shortlisted for this round will be displayed on the website by November 5, 2025.
- Round II: In-Person Interview: Scheduled to be held during December 3 – 6, 2025, at CDFD, Hyderabad. The list of candidates shortlisted for this round will be displayed on the website by November 13, 2025.
Interested and eligible candidates must apply using the prescribed online application form. It is mandatory to upload soft copies of all relevant certificates (date of birth, educational qualifications, reservation, and fellowship status).
Important Dates and Notes
- Last Date for Submitting Online Application: October 28, 2025
- Fellowship Validity: The fellowship MUST be valid at the time of joining (January / February 2026).
- Residential Requirement: CDFD’s Research Scholars Program is a fully residential program, and selected candidates are required to stay on campus.
About the Author
