The inStem Summer Research Fellowships (SuRF) 2026 is a prestigious 10-week summer internship program designed for students aspiring to pursue a PhD in Life Sciences and related disciplines. Hosted by the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem), this fellowship offers an immersive research experience under the mentorship of leading scientists in India.

Now entering its third year, the SuRF program continues to attract talented students from across the country, with a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusivity, and academic excellence.

About inStem

The Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (inStem) is India’s first dedicated stem cell research institute, funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. Located within the Bangalore Life Sciences Cluster (BLiSC), inStem is part of a vibrant ecosystem of cutting-edge biological research.

Research at inStem spans fundamental biology to translational and clinically relevant studies, using diverse model systems such as:

• Embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells

• Yeast, flies, flatworms

• Mouse models

Faculty at inStem work across disciplines including stem cell biology, tissue regeneration, chemical biology, cellular metabolism, and molecular biology.

About the SuRF Program

The SuRF program places selected students in individual research projects within inStem laboratories. Over the course of the fellowship, students will:

• Gain hands-on experimental training

• Learn to frame research questions and design experiments

• Experience the rigor and discipline of academic research

• Develop a deeper understanding of what pursuing a PhD entails

This program is ideal for students who are seriously considering a career in research or academia.

Program Duration

• Dates: May 18 – July 27, 2026

• Duration: 10 weeks (full-time, on-site)

⚠️ Students must strictly adhere to the full program timeline.

Eligibility Criteria

Due to the intensive nature of the fellowship, eligibility is restricted to currently enrolled students in the following categories:

• B.Sc. (4-year program): Completed 3rd year, entering 4th year

• B.Tech. (4-year program): Completed 3rd year, entering 4th year

• B.Pharm. (4-year program): Completed 3rd year, entering 4th year

• M.Sc. / M.Tech.: Completed 1st year, entering 2nd year

• 5-Year Integrated Programs (B.Sc.–M.Sc. / B.Tech.–M.Tech.): Completed 4th year, entering 5th year

• M.B.B.S.: Completed 2nd or 3rd year, entering 3rd or 4th year

📌 Important Notes:

• Applicants must be currently enrolled in their degree program.

• Students who have completed their degree before the start of the internship are not eligible.

• While Life Sciences students are the primary focus, students from chemistry, physics, mathematics, and related disciplines are strongly encouraged to apply.

Selection Criteria

Selection is competitive and based on multiple factors, including:

• Academic performance

• Research interests and motivation

• Alignment with inStem faculty research areas

• Availability of lab space and mentorship

• Letters of reference

• Overall suitability for the program

Fellowship Benefits

• Stipend: ₹10,000 per month

• Duration: Entire 10-week program

• Opportunity to work in a nationally renowned research institute

• Exposure to high-quality research infrastructure and mentorship

Why Apply for SuRF at inStem?

The SuRF program offers a rare opportunity to:

• Experience real-world academic research

• Build strong foundations for a future PhD

• Network with leading scientists and fellow researchers

• Explore cutting-edge research in stem cell and regenerative biology

For students serious about research, SuRF 2026 can be a transformative step in their academic journey.