Degree Course Type 

Post Research

Entry Level Qualification 

Research

Degree Course Duration 

2 Year

Course Fields 

Other

Degree Course Entrance Exam 

No Entrance Exam

Average Course Fee 

NA

Average Salary Offered 

80000 - 150000

Course Details 

Tstd

Course Highlights 

About Course 

Post-Doctoral Fellowships are awarded to young and mid-career Indian social science researchers who have completed their Ph.D. and have acumen for conducting globally competitive quality research.   

Other Domains & Areas

Why Choose Course And Required Skills 

A post-doctoral fellowship can be a highly valuable opportunity for several reasons:

Advanced Research Opportunities: It allows you to delve deeper into specialized research areas beyond your doctoral work, often with greater resources and support.

Professional Development: You gain access to professional development opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and networking events, which can enhance your academic and career prospects.

Publication and Dissemination: Fellows typically have more opportunities to publish their work in prestigious journals and present at leading conferences, which can help establish you as an expert in your field.

Collaborative Environment: Working closely with established researchers and other post-docs can foster collaboration and provide mentorship, helping you build a strong academic network.

Career Advancement: A post-doctoral fellowship can strengthen your CV and make you a more competitive candidate for faculty positions or other high-level roles in academia, government, or industry.

Skill Enhancement: It provides a chance to develop new skills, whether they be advanced quantitative methods, new theoretical approaches, or additional teaching experience.

Research Funding: Post-doctoral positions often come with dedicated research funds, which can support your projects and enable you to explore new ideas with greater flexibility.

Overall, a post-doctoral fellowship can be a crucial step for those aiming for a career in academia or high-level research roles, offering both a platform to advance your research and a springboard for future opportunities.

Technical and Research Skills

To excel in a post-doctoral fellowship in economics, you'll need a combination of technical, research, and interpersonal skills. Here’s a comprehensive list of skills that are typically important:

Advanced Econometric and Statistical Methods:

Proficiency in econometric modeling, statistical analysis, and data manipulation.

Familiarity with software tools like Stata, R, MATLAB, or Python for data analysis.

Research Design and Methodology:

Ability to design rigorous research studies and experiments.

Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.

Economic Theory:

Deep understanding of economic theories and their applications.

Ability to apply theoretical models to empirical data.

Data Analysis:

Experience with large datasets and complex data structures.

Skills in data cleaning, transformation, and visualization.

Writing and Communication:

Strong academic writing skills for preparing research papers, reports, and grant proposals.

Ability to clearly communicate complex ideas to both specialized and general audiences.

Literature Review:

Skill in conducting comprehensive reviews of existing research literature and synthesizing relevant findings.

Interpersonal and Organizational Skills

Project Management:

Ability to manage multiple research projects, including timelines, resources, and deliverables.

Strong organizational skills to keep track of data, literature, and research progress.

Collaboration:

Experience working in collaborative research environments and with multidisciplinary teams.

Good interpersonal skills to engage with colleagues, mentors, and collaborators effectively.

Critical Thinking:

Strong analytical skills to assess research findings, critique methodologies, and interpret results.

Teaching and Mentoring:

Experience in teaching or mentoring, if applicable, as many fellowships include a teaching component or require supervision of junior researchers.

Networking:

Ability to build and maintain professional relationships within the academic and research community.

Additional Considerations
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Adaptability:

Flexibility to adapt to new research areas or shifts in project scope.

Attention to Detail:

Precision in handling data, conducting analyses, and preparing research outputs.

Ethical Research Conduct:

Understanding of and commitment to ethical guidelines and practices in research.

Eligibility  

Eligibility requirements for a post-doctoral fellowship can vary depending on the institution or funding body, but generally, the following criteria are common:

1. Educational Qualifications:

Ph.D. Degree: You must have completed a Ph.D. in economics or a closely related field by the time the fellowship starts. Some programs may accept candidates who are close to finishing their doctoral degree, but a completed Ph.D. is often required.

2. Research Experience:

Research Record: A strong record of research and publications is typically required. This includes having published papers in peer-reviewed journals or having substantial research experience relevant to the fellowship's focus.

3. Research Proposal:

Research Plan: Many fellowships require you to submit a detailed research proposal outlining your intended research project, including objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

4. Academic Excellence:

Grades and Achievements: Demonstrated academic excellence throughout your doctoral studies, including high grades and notable academic achievements.

5. Letters of Recommendation:

References: Strong letters of recommendation from academic or research mentors who can attest to your research capabilities, academic potential, and fit for the fellowship.

6. Experience in Specific Areas:

Specialization: Some fellowships may have specific requirements related to the research areas they focus on, so relevant experience or expertise in those areas can be important.

7. Technical Skills:

Skills Proficiency: Proficiency in advanced econometric methods, data analysis, and relevant software tools (e.g., Stata, R, MATLAB, Python) is often necessary.

8. Publication Record:

Publication Requirement: Some fellowships may require a minimum number of published papers or conference presentations.

9. Institutional Requirements:

Specific Criteria: Adherence to any additional eligibility criteria set by the host institution or fellowship provider, which can include residency or citizenship requirements, and alignment with the institution’s research priorities.

10. Application Materials:

Application Package: Submission of a comprehensive application package, which typically includes a curriculum vitae (CV), cover letter, research proposal, and sometimes a sample of your research work.​​​​​​​

Entrance Exams Details 

In India, post-doctoral fellowships generally do not require an entrance exam. Instead, the admission process typically focuses on evaluating your academic and research credentials. Here’s how the process usually works:

1. Application Submission:

Research Proposal: Submit a detailed research proposal aligned with the fellowship’s focus or the research interests of the host institution.

Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provide a comprehensive CV highlighting your academic qualifications, research experience, and publications.

Letters of Recommendation: Include letters of recommendation from your doctoral advisors or other academic mentors.

2. Evaluation Criteria:

Research Experience: Your prior research work, publications, and expertise in relevant areas of economics are critical.

Academic Record: Your performance during your Ph.D. and other relevant academic achievements.

Research Proposal: The quality and feasibility of your proposed research project, and its alignment with the institution’s research priorities.

3. Selection Process:

Screening: Applications are reviewed to ensure they meet the basic eligibility criteria and quality standards.

Review: Your application is evaluated by a selection committee based on your research proposal, academic background, and fit for the fellowship.

Interview: Some institutions might conduct interviews to discuss your research proposal and qualifications.

4. Institution-Specific Requirements:

Fellowship Specifics: Different fellowships or institutions might have their own specific requirements or evaluation criteria. It’s essential to check the details provided by the fellowship program you are applying to.

Example Fellowships in India:
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Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR): Offers post-doctoral fellowships in social sciences, including economics. The application process typically involves submitting a research proposal and other relevant documents, without an entrance exam.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Fellowships: JNU and other major universities may have their own fellowships, which are generally awarded based on the research proposal and academic credentials rather than an entrance exam.

University Grants Commission (UGC): Some UGC-funded fellowships are available for post-doctoral research in economics. The application involves submitting research proposals and relevant academic documents.

Degree Course Syllabus 

For post-doctoral fellowships in India, there typically isn't a standardized syllabus as the focus is on research rather than coursework. The fellowship is designed for individuals who have already completed their doctoral studies and are now engaging in advanced, independent research. However, here’s a general outline of what you might expect:
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1. Research Focus:

Research Proposal: Your primary responsibility is to develop and execute a research project. The specifics of this research are determined by your proposal, which should align with the interests of the fellowship provider or host institution.

Advanced Research Topics: Depending on your research proposal, you might delve into specialized areas such as econometrics, development economics, labor economics, international economics, etc.

2. Required Skills and Knowledge:

Econometric Techniques: Deep understanding of advanced econometric methods and statistical techniques relevant to your research.

Economic Theory: Proficiency in theoretical frameworks and models that apply to your research area.

Data Analysis: Expertise in handling, analyzing, and interpreting large datasets using software tools like Stata, R, MATLAB, or Python.

3. Institutional Expectations:

Research Output: Expectations often include producing research papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals, presenting your findings at conferences, and contributing to the institution’s research agenda.

Workshops and Seminars: Participation in research seminars, workshops, and other academic activities organized by the host institution.

4. Academic and Research Development:

Skill Development: Opportunities to enhance your research skills through workshops, courses, or training offered by the institution or associated organizations.

Networking: Engaging with other researchers, attending conferences, and building professional relationships within the academic community.

5. Mentorship and Collaboration:

Guidance: Working closely with mentors or advisors who provide feedback on your research and support your professional development.

Collaborations: Opportunities for collaborative research with other scholars, both within and outside the institution.

6. Ethics and Standards:

Research Ethics: Adherence to ethical guidelines and best practices in conducting and presenting research.

While there is no formal syllabus, focusing on these areas can help you navigate and succeed in your post-doctoral research fellowship. It’s also important to stay updated with the latest research trends and methodologies in your field of interest.

Top Colleges 

In India, several top institutions offer post-doctoral fellowships, known for their strong research programs and academic excellence. Here are some of the leading colleges and universities where you can pursue a post-doctoral fellowship in economics:
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1. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi

School of Social Sciences: Known for its robust economics department and research output. JNU offers post-doctoral fellowships under various research centers and projects.

2. Delhi School of Economics (DSE), University of Delhi

Department of Economics: Offers post-doctoral opportunities with a focus on advanced research in economics. DSE is well-regarded for its academic and research excellence.

3. Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata

Economics and Planning Unit: Provides post-doctoral fellowships in economics, focusing on statistical and econometric methods. ISI is renowned for its expertise in statistical research.

4. Institute of Economic Growth (IEG), New Delhi

Research Centers: Offers fellowships focusing on economic growth, development economics, and related areas. IEG is known for its applied research in economic policies.

5. University of Hyderabad

School of Economics: Provides post-doctoral research opportunities in various economic fields. The university is known for its research-oriented programs.

6. Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), New Delhi

Research Fellowships: Offers fellowships for research on international economic relations, trade, and policy studies. ICRIER is a leading think tank for economic policy research.

7. National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP), New Delhi

Research Programs: Provides fellowships focusing on public finance and policy research. NIPFP is well-regarded for its work in fiscal policy and economic regulation.

8. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai

School of Social Work and Development Studies: Offers fellowships with a focus on social and development economics. TISS is known for its interdisciplinary approach to economic research.

9. Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, and Lucknow

Economics and Social Sciences Areas: Various IIMs offer post-doctoral fellowships in economics, focusing on applied economics, management, and policy research.

10. Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (GIPE), Pune

Research Programs: Offers fellowships with a focus on political economy, economic policy, and development economics. GIPE is known for its research in economic and social issues.

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These institutions are known for their strong research environments and offer excellent opportunities for post-doctoral research in economics.

Course Fees 

In India, post-doctoral fellowships typically do not involve tuition fees like regular degree programs. Instead, they usually come with a stipend or fellowship grant that supports the researcher during their tenure. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect regarding fees and financial support:

1. Stipend/Grant:

Fellowship Amount: Most post-doctoral fellowships provide a monthly stipend or grant to cover living expenses, research costs, and sometimes travel. The amount varies depending on the institution and funding body.

Funding Sources: Fellowships may be funded by government agencies (like ICSSR, UGC), research institutions, universities, or private foundations. Each source has its own stipend structure.

2. Institutional Costs:

No Tuition Fees: Generally, there are no tuition fees for post-doctoral fellowships. However, some institutions may have administrative or processing fees, though these are not common.

Research Costs: You may need to cover some research-related expenses, such as data collection, software, or materials, depending on the fellowship’s provisions.

3. Additional Benefits:

Travel and Conference Support: Some fellowships include funds for attending conferences, workshops, or other academic events.

Resources: Access to institutional resources like libraries, databases, and research facilities is typically provided.

Example Fellowships and Stipends:

Indian Council for Social Science Research (ICSSR): Provides post-doctoral fellowships with a monthly stipend. The amount varies but is designed to support the researcher’s living expenses and research needs.

University Grants Commission (UGC): Offers fellowships that include a stipend and, in some cases, additional allowances for research-related expenses.

Indian Statistical Institute (ISI): Post-doctoral fellowships at ISI usually come with a monthly stipend and may cover certain research expenses.

Institute of Economic Growth (IEG): Fellowships here may include a stipend and support for research activities.

​​​​​​​How to Find Specific Information:

Institution Websites: Check the specific institution’s website or contact their fellowship office for detailed information on the stipend, financial support, and any additional costs or benefits.

Fellowship Guidelines: Review the guidelines and terms provided by the fellowship program or funding body you are applying to.

Top Recruiters And Salary 

In India, several prominent institutions and organizations are known for recruiting post-doctoral fellows. These entities are well-regarded for their research focus and can offer significant opportunities for advanced research and career development. Here are some top recruiters:

1. Indian Council for Social Science Research (ICSSR)

Role: Provides post-doctoral fellowships in various areas of social sciences, including economics.

Focus: Promotes research on social science issues, including policy and development economics.

2. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi

Role: Offers post-doctoral fellowships through its School of Social Sciences and various research centers.

Focus: Advanced research in economics and related fields, with a strong emphasis on theoretical and applied research.

3. Delhi School of Economics (DSE), University of Delhi

Role: Provides post-doctoral research opportunities through its Department of Economics.

Focus: Research in economic theory, econometrics, and applied economics.

4. Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata

Role: Offers post-doctoral fellowships in its Economics and Planning Unit.

Focus: Research involving statistical and econometric methods, data analysis, and economic modeling.

5. Institute of Economic Growth (IEG), New Delhi

Role: Provides fellowships focusing on economic growth, development economics, and policy research.

Focus: Applied economic research and policy impact analysis.

6. National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP), New Delhi

Role: Offers post-doctoral fellowships focused on public finance and economic policy.

Focus: Fiscal policy, public economics, and economic regulation.

7. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai

Role: Provides post-doctoral research opportunities in social and development economics.

Focus: Interdisciplinary research in social development, policy analysis, and economics.

8. Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, and Lucknow

Role: Various IIMs offer post-doctoral fellowships in economics, particularly focusing on applied economics and management research.

Focus: Economic policy, management economics, and industry-specific economic research.

9. Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (GIPE), Pune

Role: Offers fellowships focusing on political economy and economic policy.

Focus: Research in political economy, development economics, and economic policy analysis.

10. Centre for Development Studies (CDS), Thiruvananthapuram

Role: Provides post-doctoral fellowships in development economics and related areas.

Focus: Economic development, poverty, and social policy research.

11. Institute for Financial Management and Research (IFMR), Chennai

Role: Offers post-doctoral opportunities in finance and economics.

Focus: Financial economics, development finance, and related fields.​​​​​​​

​​​​​​​These institutions and organizations are recognized for their strong research programs and can provide valuable resources, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for post-doctoral fellows in economics.

Salary and Benefits After Post Doctoral Fellowship

The salary or financial benefits following a post-doctoral fellowship in economics in India can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type of institution, location, the nature of the position, and the individual's career path. Here’s an overview of what you might expect:

1. Academic and Research Positions

University and Research Institutions:

Assistant Professor/Associate Professor: After completing a post-doctoral fellowship, transitioning to an academic role such as Assistant Professor at a university can offer a salary range of approximately Rs. 80,000 to Rs.1,50,000 per month, depending on the institution and location.

Senior Research Positions: Positions at prestigious research institutions or think tanks may offer salaries ranging from Rs.1,00,000 to Rs.2,00,000 per month, depending on experience and responsibilities.

2. Government and Public Sector

Economic Research Roles:

Government Agencies: Working in government agencies or public sector research organizations like the Indian Council for Social Science Research (ICSSR) or the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP) can offer salaries ranging from Rs.1,00,000 to Rs.1,80,000 per month, depending on the role and seniority.

3. Private Sector and Consulting

Consulting Firms and Private Sector Jobs:

Economic Consulting: Positions in consulting firms or private sector companies focusing on economic analysis, policy advice, or financial consulting may offer salaries ranging from Rs.1,50,000 to Rs.3,00,000 per month or more, depending on the firm's reputation and the candidate's expertise.

4. International Opportunities

Overseas Positions:

Global Institutions: For those moving to international roles or institutions, salaries can vary widely but are generally higher, especially in developed countries, with potential monthly salaries ranging from Rs.2,00,000 to Rs.5,00,000 or more.

5. Additional Factors Influencing Salary

Experience and Expertise: Your prior research experience, publication record, and the relevance of your expertise to the role can significantly impact your salary.

Institution Type: Prestigious institutions or well-funded research centers often offer higher salaries compared to smaller or less well-funded organizations.

Location: Salaries may also vary based on the cost of living in different cities or regions within India.

Conclusion

While post-doctoral fellowships themselves typically provide a stipend rather than a salary, the experience and credentials gained can lead to lucrative opportunities in academia, research, and industry. The transition to higher-paying roles post-fellowship can be substantial, particularly for those who leverage their expertise in high-demand sectors.

Course Scope And Career Options 

Completing a post-doctoral fellowship opens up a range of career opportunities and avenues for further specialization. Here’s a detailed look at the course scope and potential career options available after completing a post-doctoral fellowship in economics in India:

1. Academic Careers

Assistant Professor/Associate Professor: Many post-doctoral fellows transition into faculty positions at universities and colleges. These roles involve teaching, conducting research, and contributing to academic administration.

Researcher/Principal Investigator: Opportunities to lead research projects and secure grants, often in collaboration with academic or research institutions.
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2. Research Institutions and Think Tanks

Senior Research Fellow/Research Director: Positions at institutions like the Indian Council for Social Science Research (ICSSR), National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP), or the Institute of Economic Growth (IEG). These roles involve conducting advanced research, policy analysis, and contributing to influential reports.

Policy Advisor: Providing expert advice on economic policy and development issues.

3. Government and Public Sector

Economic Advisor: Roles in government departments, ministries, or public sector enterprises focusing on economic planning, policy formulation, and evaluation.

Data Analyst/Economist: Working with government agencies or public sector organizations to analyze economic data, forecast trends, and develop policy recommendations.

4. Private Sector

Economic Consultant: Consulting firms or corporations often hire economists to provide insights on market trends, financial strategies, and business planning.

Financial Analyst/Manager: Positions in financial institutions or multinational corporations, focusing on economic forecasting, risk assessment, and investment strategies.

5. International Organizations

Economist/Researcher: Opportunities with international bodies such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), United Nations, or regional development banks, focusing on global economic issues and development projects.

Policy Analyst: Working on international economic policies and development programs.

6. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Development Economist: Working with NGOs on projects related to economic development, poverty alleviation, and social impact.

Program Manager: Overseeing and evaluating economic and development programs.

7. Consulting and Advisory Services

Economic Consultant: Providing expert analysis and advice to businesses, governments, and organizations on economic issues and strategies.

Policy Consultant: Advising on policy formulation and implementation for various stakeholders.

8. Entrepreneurship and Independent Research

Economic Entrepreneurship: Starting your own consulting firm or research organization focused on specialized economic issues or policy analysis.

Independent Researcher: Conducting independent research and publishing findings, often supported by grants or collaborations with institutions.
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Additional Career Benefits and Opportunities

Networking: Building a professional network with other economists, researchers, and policymakers, which can open doors to collaborations and new opportunities.

Professional Development: Gaining additional skills in research methodologies, data analysis, and economic modeling, which can enhance career prospects.​​​​​​​

Admission Process 

The admission process for a post-doctoral fellowship typically involves several key steps. While specific procedures can vary by institution or funding body, here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Identify Opportunities:

Research Fellowships: Look for available post-doctoral fellowships in economics through academic institutions, research centers, professional associations, or funding agencies.

Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the fellowships you are interested in.

2. Prepare Application Materials:

Curriculum Vitae (CV): Update your CV to highlight your academic achievements, research experience, publications, and any relevant skills.

Cover Letter: Write a cover letter tailored to the fellowship position, outlining your research interests, how they align with the fellowship's goals, and your career objectives.

Research Proposal: Develop a detailed research proposal that includes your research question, methodology, objectives, and potential impact. Tailor it to fit the fellowship’s focus and the institution’s research strengths.

Transcripts and Publications: Include copies of your doctoral transcripts and any significant publications or research work that support your application.

Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from academic mentors or colleagues who can vouch for your research capabilities and suitability for the fellowship.

3. Submit Application:

Application Portal: Follow the application instructions provided by the fellowship program. This might involve submitting materials through an online application portal or sending them directly to the fellowship office.

Deadline: Adhere to application deadlines. Missing the deadline can disqualify you from consideration.

4. Review Process:

Initial Screening: Applications are typically screened for completeness and basic eligibility criteria.

Evaluation: Your application will be evaluated by a selection committee or review board. They will assess your research proposal, academic qualifications, publication record, and fit with the fellowship’s objectives.

5. Interview (if applicable):

Interview Process: Some fellowships may require an interview as part of the selection process. This could be a formal interview or a discussion about your research proposal and fit for the fellowship.

Presentation: You may be asked to present your research proposal or discuss your previous work in detail.

6. Decision:

Notification: After the review and interview process, you will receive a decision regarding your application. If accepted, you will receive an offer letter outlining the terms and conditions of the fellowship.

7. Acceptance and Preparation:

Acceptance: If offered the fellowship, you will need to formally accept the offer and complete any additional paperwork or agreements.

Preparation: Prepare for your fellowship by arranging logistics such as moving, setting up your research, and meeting any pre-fellowship requirements.

8. Onboarding:

Orientation: Some institutions offer an orientation or onboarding process to familiarize you with the institution’s resources, policies, and research environment.