ICMR launches first of its kind industry internship program for PhD scholars

In a significant stride toward revolutionizing biomedical research training in India, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has launched the ICMR-Industry Internship Initiative for PhD Students. The program is oriented towards reshaping the future of scientific education and innovation.

This is the first of its kind initiative to provide real-world industrial exposure to more than 1,000 PhD scholars currently pursuing doctoral research at ICMR-affiliated institutions across the country. By embedding academic researchers in live industrial environments, the program seeks to bridge the often-cited gap between academic knowledge and industry application.

The initiative aligns seamlessly with the Prime Minister’s national vision for experiential learning, innovation-led growth, and capacity building, and reflects ICMR’s commitment to nurturing a future-ready biomedical workforce equipped with practical, translational research skills.

Designed to foster academic-industry convergence, the program enables PhD candidates to undertake internships in a diverse array of biomedical and health-focused sectors, including pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, vaccine manufacturers and diagnostic laboratories, public health institutions and regulatory bodies, startups and R&D centers focused on life sciences and healthcare technologies

“The goal is not just to provide exposure, but to transform doctoral researchers into industry-ready innovators,” emphasized an official associated with the development.

Each scholar will be eligible to participate in two internship phases during their doctoral tenure — ideally in their 2nd/3rd year and again in the 4th/5th year — with each phase spanning 2 to 3 months. These internships will cover a wide spectrum of domains including molecular biology, biomedical device development, clinical research, epidemiology, health policy, and translational sciences.

This program is designed not just for the benefit of students, but also to provide tangible value to the industry partners involved. Participating organizations will gain early access to a pool of highly skilled, research-driven talent, fresh perspectives, and opportunities for collaborative innovation.

ICMR is inviting interested industry partners to extend their support through access to state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure, mentorship from industry professionals, financial support or stipends for interns and co-development of research problems or solutions relevant to industry needs.

ICMR is now seeking expressions of interest from industry partners in the biomedical, pharmaceutical, biotech, and healthcare sectors. Organizations that choose to participate will play a critical role in shaping the next generation of biomedical leaders, while gaining from the insights and research expertise of India’s top young scientists.

“This initiative marks a strategic step toward Atmanirbhar Bharat in science and healthcare innovation. By cultivating a skilled, industry-experienced research workforce, the ICMR-Industry Internship Initiative aims to elevate India’s standing as a global leader in biomedical discovery, healthcare delivery, and translational science,” an official concluded.