NLSIU Research Fellowships 2026: Applications Open for Multiple Research Positions
The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru, has invited applications for its prestigious Research Fellowships Programme for the academic year 2025–26. The fellowship initiative aims to promote high-quality interdisciplinary research in law, public policy, social sciences, and related fields.
Researchers, scholars, and recent graduates interested in contributing to impactful academic work can apply for various fellowship positions offered by the university.
About NLSIU
The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru, is one of India’s premier institutions for legal education and research. Established in 1987, the university has played a pioneering role in transforming legal education through innovative teaching methods, interdisciplinary research, and policy engagement.
Over the years, NLSIU has expanded its academic focus beyond law to include social sciences, humanities, and public policy. The university has consistently ranked among the top law schools in India and has secured the top position in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) law rankings for several consecutive years.
About the NLSIU Research Fellowships Programme
The Research Fellowships Programme is aligned with NLSIU’s Grand Challenges Research Framework, developed to address major contemporary social and legal issues. The programme encourages original research and seeks to build a vibrant community of scholars working across disciplines.
Fellows become part of the university’s intellectual ecosystem and gain access to:
- Academic workshops and seminars
- Research collaborations with faculty and scholars
- Extensive library and digital resources
- Opportunities for publication in university platforms and academic journals
- Interdisciplinary research networks
Fellowship Positions Available
NLSIU is currently offering the following fellowship opportunities:
1. Graduate Research Fellowship
- Number of Positions: 10
- Suitable for recent graduates and early-career researchers interested in academic research.
2. NLSIU Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Number of Positions: 5
- Designed for scholars who have completed a doctoral degree and wish to pursue advanced research projects.
3. University Research Fellowship
- Number of Positions: 5
- Intended for experienced researchers seeking to contribute to significant academic and policy-oriented research initiatives.
Key Research Themes
The fellowships support research related to NLSIU’s identified Grand Challenges:
- Climate Justice
- Labour and Work
- State Capacity and Institutional Reform
- Law and Technology
- Access to Justice and Legal Reform
Applicants may also explore interdisciplinary topics connected to these broad thematic areas.
Objectives of the Fellowship Programme
The programme aims to:
- Strengthen research and policy interventions addressing contemporary societal challenges.
- Encourage interdisciplinary scholarship across law, social sciences, and public policy.
- Build a collaborative research community involving faculty members, fellows, and researchers.
- Promote global academic partnerships and knowledge exchange.
- Enhance the creation, dissemination, and practical application of research findings.
Fellowship Location
Selected fellows are generally expected to work from the NLSIU campus in Bengaluru during the fellowship tenure.
However, the university may consider flexible arrangements in exceptional cases, depending on project requirements and individual circumstances.
Fellowship Benefits and Remuneration
- Competitive remuneration based on qualifications and relevant experience.
- Access to world-class academic infrastructure.
- Opportunities for publication and professional development.
- Engagement with leading scholars and policy experts.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the designated online application form corresponding to their chosen fellowship category.
Applicants should carefully review eligibility criteria and fellowship requirements before submitting their applications.
Application Deadline
Applications are being reviewed in multiple rounds.
Third Review Round
- Application Deadline: June 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM
- Evaluation and Selection Period: May 16, 2026 to July 31, 2026
Applications submitted within the specified period will be considered during the final review cycle.
How to Apply
Please use the Google form for the relevant fellowship:
1. Graduate Research Fellowship (10 positions)
2. NLSIU Postdoctoral Fellowship (5 positions)
3. University Research Fellowship (5 positions)
