About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
(Research & Innovation STEMM Empowerment) is a transformative 12-month programme designed to strengthen the research, leadership, and mentorship capacity of early-career women scientists in India. Developed under the Johns Hopkins University through the Gupta-Klinsky India Institute, the initiative is part of the U.S.-India Alliance for Women’s Economic Empowerment.
The fellowship is co-led in collaboration with leading institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science and the Indian Council of Medical Research, ensuring a strong foundation in both global and local research ecosystems.
The programme aims to address systemic gender inequities in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) by creating pathways for women scientists to grow, lead, and influence research and policy.
Programme Vision and Objectives
The India RISE Fellowship focuses on empowering women scientists through a holistic and systems-level approach. Rather than simply supporting entry into STEMM fields, the programme emphasizes long-term career progression, leadership development, and institutional impact.
Core objectives include:
Strengthening research and technical expertise
Building leadership and decision-making capacity
Creating sustainable mentorship ecosystems
Promoting inclusive and supportive research environments
Enhancing collaboration across institutions and disciplines
The programme is grounded in the belief that advancing women in science requires both individual growth and systemic change.
Programme Structure and Learning Experience
The fellowship is structured as a part-time, hybrid programme, allowing participants to continue working in their professional roles while engaging in intensive learning and development activities.
Key components include:
Structured Research Curriculum: Training in proposal development, research ethics, project management, and scientific communication
Leadership Workshops: Interactive sessions focused on confidence-building, strategic thinking, and leadership development
Capstone Project: A year-long applied research project aligned with national STEMM priorities
Individual Development Plans (IDPs): Personalized career roadmaps to track growth and progress
Peer Learning Networks: Collaborative engagement with fellows, mentors, and global experts
Participants also engage in both online and in-person sessions, ensuring a balanced and immersive learning experience.
Fellowship Components
The programme includes a comprehensive set of learning and development activities designed to maximize impact:
8 online curriculum modules focused on competency-based learning
4 hands-on workshops for practical application
8 group mentorship sessions and 2 individual mentoring sessions
2 in-person networking and leadership events
Access to over 500 curated resources (grants, fellowships, conferences)
Opportunity to compete for a USD 50,000 research grant upon completion
These components provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, enabling fellows to apply their learning directly to their work.
Core Learning Goals
The fellowship is designed to develop well-rounded researchers and leaders. Key learning outcomes include:
Advanced research design, execution, and analysis skills
Effective project management and budgeting capabilities
Strong grant writing and proposal development expertise
Understanding of ethical and regulatory frameworks
Improved scientific communication and public engagement
Leadership and strategic decision-making skills
Ability to evaluate and translate research into policy and practice
Development of mentorship capabilities to support future leaders
These competencies prepare fellows to contribute meaningfully to research, innovation, and institutional leadership.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is targeted at early-career women researchers in India. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Identify as women
Hold a PhD or postgraduate professional degree (e.g., MTech, MD, MS, DNB)
Have completed their qualification within the last 7 years
Be actively engaged in health or medical research in India
Demonstrate commitment to advancing women in STEMM
Have a designated research advisor within their institution
The programme also recognizes non-linear career paths, allowing for career breaks and transitions.
Fellowship Benefits
Participants gain access to a wide range of professional and academic benefits designed to accelerate career growth. These include:
Certificate from Johns Hopkins University
Travel funding support for programme activities
Access to a competitive USD 50,000 research grant challenge
Premium online learning resources and courses
Membership in the India RISE professional network
Exposure to global research and leadership communities
These benefits enhance both immediate learning outcomes and long-term career opportunities.
Broader Impact and Value
The India RISE Fellowship goes beyond individual development by fostering systemic change in research ecosystems. It promotes intergenerational mentorship, encourages institutional reform, and strengthens global collaboration in STEMM fields.
The programme contributes to:
Increased representation of women in scientific leadership
Stronger research ecosystems in India
Improved health outcomes through inclusive research
Sustainable mentorship and knowledge-sharing networks
By empowering women scientists, the fellowship supports innovation, equity, and global health advancement.
How to apply