If you’re from a Biotech, Life Sciences, or Molecular Biology background and looking for hands-on research experience — the NCCS Internship 2025 should definitely be on your radar.
When I was digging around for meaningful summer internships in India, I came across the National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, and trust me, it’s one of the most underrated but brilliant opportunities for budding researchers.
About NCCS Internship
The NCCS Internship is offered by the National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, an autonomous institute under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Govt. of India. It focuses on cell biology, molecular biology, genomics, microbiology, and immunology research.
This internship is especially great for M.Sc. and integrated M.Sc. students looking to pursue a PhD or serious lab-based research. It’s usually onsite in Pune, though in rare cases, virtual interactions may happen.
NCCS Internship Highlights 2025
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Start Date | May 2025 (Summer batch) |
| End Date | July 2025 (usually 2 months) |
| Duration | 8–10 weeks |
| Stipend Amount | Usually unpaid (but some get hostel access/lab access) |
| Work Mode | On-site (NCCS Pune Campus) |
| Sector | Life Sciences / Biotech / Molecular Biology |
| Open To | Indian students (M.Sc. level preferred) |
Here’s the eligibility criteria for the NCCS Internship 2025:
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Education: M.Sc. (Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology), or integrated M.Sc.
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Academic Year: Usually for students in their final year or pre-final semester
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Marks Requirement: 60% and above (some labs are flexible if research interest is strong)
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Nationality: Indian students only
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Preference: Candidates aiming to pursue PhD or strong interest in cell/molecular research
Selection Process
NCCS does not advertise a centralized internship every year — so here’s how I found my way in:
Option 1: Direct Application to Scientists
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Visit www.nccs.res.in
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Check “Faculty” or “Scientists” section — read about their ongoing research
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Identify which lab matches your interest
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Email the scientist directly with:
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Your CV
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Statement of Purpose (SOP)
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Why you want to intern in their lab
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Mention time period (May–July 2025)
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If they have space and funding (or allow unpaid interns), they may accept you.
Option 2: College/University Collaboration
Some institutes send interns through MoUs or institutional connections. You can request your college’s HOD or TPO to reach out to NCCS on your behalf.
Internship Benefits
While it’s usually an unpaid internship, the real value lies in the exposure:
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Work in world-class cell biology labs
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Guidance from India’s top scientists
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Internship certificate from NCCS
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Access to advanced instruments (FACS, PCR, sequencing labs, etc.)
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Great addition to your CV if planning for PhD or fellowships
Documents Required
Make sure to prepare these:
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Updated Resume/CV
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SOP (1 page max, concise)
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Bonafide Certificate from your university
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Academic marksheets
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Letter of Recommendation (LOR) – optional but helpful
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Valid ID Proof (Aadhaar/passport)
How to Apply for NCCS Internship 2025?
Here’s the step-by-step guide:
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Shortlist the labs you’re interested in
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Draft a personalized email to the scientist, mentioning:
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Why you’re applying
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Time duration (May–July 2025)
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Attach CV, SOP, and academic details
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Wait for a response (they get lots of mails, so follow up politely in 7–10 days)
Tip: Apply between January–March 2025 for the summer batch.
Important Dates (Expected)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | January 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | March 15, 2025 |
| Shortlisting Starts | April 2025 |
| Internship Period | May–July 2025 |
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What is the last date to apply for NCCS Internship 2025?
→ March 15, 2025 (tentative, apply early) -
Who is eligible for NCCS Internship?
→ M.Sc. students in Biotech, Life Sciences, or related fields -
Is this internship paid or unpaid?
→ Usually unpaid, but great for learning and future research prospects -
What are the benefits of this internship?
→ Certificate, real lab experience, PhD-level research exposure, recommendation letters -
How to apply for NCCS Internship online?
→ Email faculty members directly with your CV + SOP -
Do I need to be from a specific university?
→ No, but preference may be given to reputed institutes or students with strong academic interest -
Can international students apply?
→ Not typically, it’s open mainly to Indian nationals