The inStem Summer Research Fellowships (SuRF) 2026 is a highly competitive 10-week paid summer research internship designed for students aiming to pursue a PhD in Life Sciences and allied disciplines. This prestigious fellowship places selected students in cutting-edge research laboratories at Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem), India’s first dedicated stem cell research institute.
About the inStem SuRF Program 2026
The SuRF program offers an immersive academic research experience where fellows work directly with inStem faculty on individualized projects. The program is structured to strengthen experimental skills, improve research thinking, and help students understand the rigor and discipline required for doctoral research.
This is the third year of the fellowship, and inStem continues to welcome students from across India, emphasizing diversity, inclusivity, and interdisciplinary research.
About inStem
The Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem) is funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, and is located within the Bangalore Life Sciences Cluster (BLiSC) campus in Bengaluru.
Research at inStem spans:
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Stem cell biology
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Tissue regeneration
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Chemical biology
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Cellular metabolism
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Molecular biology
Researchers work with diverse model systems such as embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, yeast, flies, flatworms, and mice, bridging fundamental biology with translational and clinical impact.
Program Duration & Structure
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Program Duration: May 18 – July 27, 2026
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Total Length: 10 weeks (mandatory full duration)
Students must strictly adhere to the program timeline.
Who Is Eligible for inStem SuRF 2026?
Applicants must be currently enrolled in a degree program. Students who complete their degree before the internship starts are not eligible.
Eligible Courses & Year Requirements
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B.Sc. (4-year): Completed 3rd year → entering 4th year
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B.Tech. (4-year): Completed 3rd year → entering 4th year
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B.Pharm. (4-year): Completed 3rd year → entering 4th year
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M.Sc. / M.Tech.: Completed 1st year → entering 2nd year
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5-year Integrated B.Sc.–M.Sc. / B.Tech.–M.Tech.: Completed 4th year → entering 5th year
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MBBS: Completed 2nd or 3rd year → entering 3rd or 4th year
Academic Background
While students from Life Sciences are the primary target, students from Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and other relevant disciplines are strongly encouraged to apply, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of modern biological research.
Selection Criteria
Selection is highly competitive and based on multiple factors, including:
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Overall academic performance
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Research interests and motivation
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Research fit with inStem faculty labs
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Availability of lab space and mentors
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Reference letters
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Overall suitability for an intensive research environment
Fellowship Benefits & Stipend
Selected fellows will receive:
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💰 Stipend: ₹10,000 per month (for the full 10-week duration)
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🧪 Hands-on laboratory research experience
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🎓 Exposure to high-impact academic research culture
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📜 Completion Certificate from inStem
Program Components
1. Orientation
Fellows are introduced to inStem, its research ecosystem, and the BLiSC campus.
2. Laboratory Research
Students work under inStem faculty on defined research projects, gaining real experimental and analytical experience.
3. Lecture Series
Talks by eminent scientists from inStem and other Bengaluru-based research institutes.
4. Final Presentations
Each fellow presents their research findings as a short scientific talk at the end of the program.
5. Certification
An official internship completion certificate is awarded to all fellows who successfully complete the program.
Application Timeline (SuRF 2026)
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Applications Open: February 1, 2026
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Applications Close: March 1, 2026
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Selection Results: April 1, 2026
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Acceptance Deadline: April 15, 2026
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Program Start: May 18, 2026
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Orientation: May 19, 2026
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SuRF Student Seminar: July 24, 2026
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Program End: July 27, 2026
📌 Note: Dates are subject to change.
Why Apply for inStem Summer Research Fellowship?
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Ideal for students planning a PhD or research-driven career
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Exposure to India’s premier stem cell research institute
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Strengthens research profile, SOPs, and CVs for higher studies
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Opportunity to work with nationally and internationally recognized scientists
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Paid research internship with structured mentoring
