We welcome applications for the High Altitude Field Ecology Course to be conducted in Kashmir. This course, jointly conducted by National Centre for Biological Sciences - TIFR, Bangalore and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology - Kashmir, Srinagar, is an intensive two-week residential training programme designed for PhD scholars and recent PhD graduates. The course will be conducted from 5th September 2026 to 18th September 2026. The course aims to provide participants with advanced theoretical knowledge and hands-on field experience in mountain ecology, wildlife monitoring, conservation biology, climate change, wetland ecology, bioethics, and modern ecological research techniques through lectures, practical demonstrations, and field-based learning. The programme will be delivered by a distinguished panel of leading faculty and subject experts drawn from premier institutions across India, providing participants with exceptional opportunities for learning, scientific interaction, and mentorship.

The programme combines classroom sessions with extensive field exercises, including wildlife monitoring, biodiversity assessment, wetland and mountain ecosystem studies, and use of instruments. The final phase of the course focuses on student-led field projects, proposal development, presentations, and expert feedback, enabling participants to apply the concepts learned in real-world high-altitude ecosystems.

Eligibility:
ONLY Candidates who are currently pursuing PhD or have recently completed their doctoral degree are eligible. 
Applicants who only have or are pursuing Masters or Bachelors degrees are NOT eligible, this decision is final. Refer to FAQ for strict eligibility criteria.

In an effort to support greater equity and inclusion within the academic and research community, we strongly encourage applications from individuals based in regions or communities that have had limited access to similar opportunities. While all applications will be reviewed based on alignment with the program's goals, we are committed to inclusivity and diversity.

 
Applicants who are working in high altitude systems will be strongly preferred. If you are not currently working in high altitude you have to strongly justify why you should be considered for the course (e.g. you are proposing to expand to high altitude ecosystems).
 

Location: participants will be hosted at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Kashmir, Srinagar campus with field training conducted in Dachigam National Park and Gulmargh.

Date: 5th September 2026 to 18th September 2026.

Intake: 15 participants.

Application timelines
Opening date: 8th July 2026
Closing date: 5 PM (1700 hours) on 25th July 2026
Interview:  Late August/ Early September
Results: Early September 2026.

Course fees: No course fees. Accommodation and meals are covered by us.

Limited grants are available to cover travel on a need basis. We provide travel support only to applicants who do not currently have any fellowships/scholarships, or are unemployed after graduation.

Information/documents required:

  1. Updated CV: indicating all previous projects, works experience, and qualifications relevant to the course. Please mention the year you started your PhD degree, the institution, and completion year (for early career applicants).
  2. Letter of support: from your supervisor or mentor who can evaluate the suitability of this course for your PhD / research career and can provide an assessment of your motivation and aptitude to attend the course. Additionally the letter should outline the usefulness of attending this course to the specific research you are carrying out. If you want to seek funds to cover travel please inform your supervisor to clearly state that you currently do not have any fellowship/scholarships or source of funds, in the letter justifying the request. 
  3. Writing sample: We want to see a sample of your scientific writing. This can be a) your Masters Thesis, OR b) a co-authored scientific article where your role is clear, OR c) a co-authored technical report, OR d) popular writing in a periodical/online blog etc.
  4. Statement of Interest (to be entered in online form): this document should mention why you want to attend the course. It should outline your motivation, how the course aligns with your research plan, and how it can be applied to your ongoing or proposed research.

DO NOT hesitate to reach out to us if you have any queries by email indicaschool@ncbs.res.in

Refer our FAQ section for questions/queries before applying. 

Click here to apply

Click here to download poster in PDF

 

This initiative is generously funded by