About UGC-CSIR-DBT NET (Life Sciences)

National Eligibility Test

UGC-CSIR-DBT NET
(Life Sciences)

The ultimate gateway to secure your Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Assistant Professor position in India's premier institutes.

Purpose & Authority

Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of CSIR & DBT to determine eligibility for:

• Award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
• Eligibility for Assistant Professor (Lectureship)
• Selection for advanced Life Science research

Eligibility Criteria

• Degree: M.Sc / Integrated MSc / B.Tech / B.Pharma / MBBS in Life Sciences or related fields.
• Status: Final-year postgraduate students are also eligible to apply.
• Age Limit: Upper age limit applies for JRF (Relaxations available for reserved categories & women). No age limit for Lectureship.

Exam Pattern & Structure

Part A: General Aptitude

Logical reasoning, graphical analysis, analytical and numerical ability.

Part B: Core Subject

Direct, concept-based questions covering the breadth of Life Sciences.

Part C: Advanced Application

High-value, analytical questions testing scientific reasoning and research methodology.

Mode: Computer Based Test (CBT)

Fellowship & Benefits

Candidates qualifying for JRF receive substantial financial support to pursue their PhD:

₹37,000 / month + HRA

(Upgraded to SRF after 2 years with an increased stipend of ₹42,000/month)

Brief Syllabus Overview

Molecular Biology

Cell Biology

Genetics

Biochemistry

Microbiology

Ecology & Evolution

Immunology

Bioinformatics

Career Opportunities

• PhD Research Scholar at IITs, IISc, CSIR Labs
• Assistant Professor / Lecturer in Universities
• Scientist roles in Govt. Research Institutes
• Project Fellow in ICMR, ICAR, & DBT funded projects
• R&D positions in top Biotech & Pharma companies

Download Full Syllabus PDF

Get the complete, topic-wise official syllabus.