DETAILS ABOUT DBT-JRF EXAM

ℹ️Full Form

Department of Biotechnology - Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF). The exam itself is called the Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET).

✅Eligibility

• Academic Qualification: Master's (M.Sc./M.Tech./M.V.Sc.) degree or integrated M.S./M.Sc. in any discipline of Biotechnology and allied areas of life sciences.
• Marks: A minimum of 60% aggregate marks for General/EWS/OBC category and 55% for SC/ST/PwD candidates.

🎂Age Limit

The upper age limit is **28 years** for the General/EWS category. Age relaxation of up to 5 years is given for SC/ST/PwD/Women candidates and 3 years for OBC candidates.

🧬Detailed Syllabus

The exam has two parts:

• Part A (General Aptitude & General Biotechnology): Aptitude & General Science, Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computer Application.
• Part B (Specialized Biotechnology): This part has specialized sections. Candidates need to attempt questions from any three sections of their choice, covering topics like Molecular Biology, Immunology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Medical Biotechnology, etc.

⚙️Selection Process

1. Step 1: Appear for the Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET). This is a single-session, computer-based test (CBT).
2. Step 2: Merit List Declaration. Two merit lists are prepared: Category-I and Category-II.
3. Step 3: Fellowship Activation.
   • Category-I: These candidates are eligible to activate their fellowship and pursue a Ph.D. at any recognized university or research institution in India.
   • Category-II: These candidates are eligible to be appointed in DBT-sponsored projects and can apply for Ph.D. programs, but they are not guaranteed a fellowship from the DBT-JRF program.

💰Stipend & Fellowship (During Ph.D.)

Category-I qualifiers receive a monthly stipend as per Government of India norms.

• Junior Research Fellow (JRF): Approximately ₹37,000 per month for the first two years.
• Senior Research Fellow (SRF): Approximately ₹42,000 per month for the remaining tenure, plus other allowances like HRA.

👨‍🔬Starting Post

This is an eligibility test for a fellowship. After qualifying, the starting designation is Junior Research Fellow (JRF) or Ph.D. Scholar in a recognized university or research institution.

📋Job Profile (NA)

NA (This is an eligibility test for a research fellowship. The profile is that of a Ph.D. researcher).

🎁Facilities After Selection (in a Research Institute)

NA (Facilities depend on the institute where the candidate joins for their Ph.D.).

🎯Scope

The DBT-JRF is the premier fellowship for Ph.D. scholars in the field of Biotechnology in India, equivalent to the CSIR-NET for other science streams. Qualifying this exam is a mark of excellence and provides a fully funded opportunity to pursue a research career at India's top biotech labs and universities. It is a crucial stepping stone for a career as a scientist in academia or the burgeoning biotech industry.

🗓️Exam Dates & Frequency

• Frequency: The DBT-JRF BET is conducted once a year.
• Exam Month: Typically in April or May.

📝How to Apply

The application process is conducted online through the official portal of the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), Faridabad, on behalf of the Department of Biotechnology.

📊Exam Structure & Score Pattern

Scoring Pattern: Each question typically carries 3 marks. There is **negative marking of 1 mark** for each incorrect answer.

⏱️Duration of the Exam

The total duration of the exam is 180 minutes (3 hours).

⏳Result Time

The results, including the list of qualified candidates for Category-I and Category-II, are typically declared within 1 to 2 months after the examination.

💸Fees

The application fee is typically ₹1,200 for General/OBC candidates and ₹600 for SC/ST/EWS/PwD candidates. This fee is subject to change.

🌐Official Website

For all official notifications, registration, and authentic information, always refer to the official RCB website: rcb.res.in/DBTJRF/