The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) is inviting applications from students, recent graduates, and researchers worldwide for its Study-cum-Research Program (ISRP) 2026–2027. The programme provides hands-on research experience, professional development, and networking opportunities through internships, Master’s research placements, doctoral research programmes, and research fellowships.

Designed to strengthen capacity in agricultural research and sustainable development, the ISRP enables participants to contribute to ongoing research projects while gaining valuable practical skills under the guidance of ICRISAT scientists.

Applications are accepted throughout the year, making this an excellent opportunity for aspiring researchers looking to build careers in agriculture, environmental science, engineering, and related fields.

About ICRISAT

The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) is an international research organization and a member of the CGIAR consortium. The institute focuses on improving dryland agriculture and developing sustainable agri-food systems to address hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and environmental degradation affecting more than 2.1 billion people across Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and other dryland regions.

Through research, innovation, and capacity building, ICRISAT supports global efforts to strengthen food security, climate resilience, and agricultural productivity.

Study-cum-Research Programme Categories

ICRISAT offers four programme categories designed for different academic and professional levels.

Internship Programme

Duration: 6 weeks to 3 months

Suitable for undergraduate students whose internship forms part of their academic programme.

Master’s Research Programme

Duration: 3 to 6 months

Designed for Master’s students conducting research required for their degree.

Doctoral Research Programme

Duration: 6 months to 3 years

Provides PhD students with opportunities to undertake advanced research alongside ICRISAT scientists.

Research Fellow Programme

Duration: 6 to 18 months

Ideal for recent graduates and researchers seeking advanced research experience and career development.

Fields of Study

Participants can engage in research across a wide range of disciplines.

Plant Sciences

Research opportunities include:

Genetics and Plant Breeding
Entomology
Plant Pathology
Plant Physiology
Agronomy
Genomics and Pre-breeding
Cell and Molecular Biology
Trait Engineering

Natural and Environmental Sciences

Areas include:

Soil Science
Soil and Water Conservation
Natural Resource Management
Environmental Sciences
Climate Studies

Social Sciences

Research topics include:

Agricultural Economics
Agricultural Extension
Gender Studies
Food and Nutrition

Engineering and Technology

Available research fields include:

Agricultural Engineering
Postharvest Management
Value Addition
Digital Agriculture
Mechanical Engineering
Automobile Engineering

Agribusiness Management and Communications

Applicants may also pursue research in:

Agribusiness Management
Finance
Media and Communications

Other Areas

Additional opportunities are available in services supporting ICRISAT’s operations, including:

Organizational Safety and Security
Hotel Management
Catering Technology

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements.

Eligible candidates include:

Undergraduate students applying for internships.
Master’s students undertaking research as part of their academic programme.
Doctoral (PhD) students conducting thesis research.
Recent graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) seeking research experience or career development.

Applicants should:

Be enrolled at a recognized university or academic institution (where applicable).
Have completed all required coursework before beginning the programme.
Be free from classroom attendance during the research period.
Ensure the internship or research placement forms part of their academic requirements (for current students).

Application Fees

Applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee.

Fees are:

USD 20 for international applicants applying from outside India.
INR 1,500 for applicants applying within India.

Applicants must upload proof of payment as part of their application.

Insurance Requirement

All participants are responsible for obtaining and maintaining their own:

Health insurance.
Travel insurance.
Accident insurance.

Insurance must remain valid throughout the period of study or research at ICRISAT.

Application Process

Applications are accepted throughout the year.

However, submissions are reviewed during three annual intake periods:

June
September
March

Applicants should submit their application at least 45 days before their intended start date.

Applications must include all required documentation and the application fee payment receipt.

Selection Process

Applicants are evaluated based on:

Alignment of their research interests with ICRISAT’s ongoing projects.
Academic qualifications and performance.
Programme requirements.
Personal interview (where applicable).

Only successful applicants will be notified.

Bench Fees

Accepted participants are required to pay a bench fee that supports access to:

Office facilities.
Library resources.
Databases.
Laboratory supplies.
Chemicals and glassware.
Safety equipment.
Research support services.

Current fees include:

Internship (up to 3 months)

USD 100 for the first three months.
USD 25 for each additional month.

Master’s Research

USD 100 for the first six months.
USD 50 for each additional six-month period.

Doctoral Research

USD 150 for the first twelve months.
USD 50 for every additional six-month period.

These fees do not cover accommodation, meals, or travel expenses.

Scholarships and Fee Concessions

ICRISAT notes that:

A limited number of scholarships and fellowships are available for deserving candidates.
Applicants from low-income countries (as classified by FAO) are eligible for a 50% concession on bench fees.

Because scholarship opportunities are limited, applicants are encouraged to submit strong applications early.

Estimated Vacancies (2026–2027)

ICRISAT Patancheru Campus (Hyderabad, India)

Internships: 93
Master’s Research: 38
PhD Research: 24

African Regional Locations

Internships: 20
Master’s Research: 4
PhD Research: 7

Actual placements depend on research needs and supervisor availability.

Why Apply?

The ICRISAT Study-cum-Research Program provides valuable opportunities to:

Gain practical international research experience.
Work alongside leading agricultural scientists.
Contribute to ongoing global research projects.
Develop technical and research skills.
Build international academic and professional networks.
Strengthen future applications for graduate study or employment.
Support innovations that improve food security and sustainable agriculture.

Participants also gain exposure to multidisciplinary research addressing some of the world’s most pressing agricultural and environmental challenges.

Final Thoughts

The ICRISAT Study-cum-Research Program 2026–2027 offers an excellent platform for students, recent graduates, and researchers seeking international research experience in agriculture, environmental science, engineering, social sciences, and related disciplines. With year-round applications, flexible programme durations, opportunities for scholarships, and placements in India and Africa, the programme provides meaningful opportunities to build research expertise while contributing to sustainable agricultural development worldwide.

Eligible candidates are encouraged to prepare their applications early and submit them at least 45 days before their intended start date.

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ICRISAT Study-cum-Research Program 2026–2027: Global Internships, Master’s, PhD & Research Fellowships