DBT JRF is one of the most sought-after exams conducted by the Department of Biotechnology. It is conducted to shortlist talented candidates for the award of Junior Research Fellowships in the field of biotechnology. The fellowship provides an excellent opportunity for young researchers to pursue their scientific aspirations and contribute to advancements of biotechnological research in the country.
DBT JRF exam is divided into two parts: aptitude and general biotechnology, and candidates need to secure minimum qualifying marks in both stages to get shortlisted for fellowship. DBT JRF Notification was released on 10 March 2023, and the exam was conducted on 13 May 2023. Read through the post to get the latest updates on DBT JRF, including eligibility, application form, syllabus, result, etc.
DBT JRF 2023
DBT JRF is an abbreviation of the Department of Biotechnology Junior Research Fellowship. Administered by the Department of Biotechnology, this exam is conducted to award fellowships to individuals seeking to pursue a Ph.D. in the biotechnology field. DBT JRF exam is conducted annually and divided into two categories:
- Category I (275 positions): Shortlisted candidates in this category are granted registration for a Ph.D. degree at any recognized university or institute in India.
- Category II (100 positions): Candidates who qualify in this category are eligible to participate in DBT-sponsored research projects and receive the associated fellowship benefits.
DBT JRF Highlights
Aspirants preparing for the DBT JRF must be well-versed with every detail of the exam. All important points related to the DBT JRF 2023 exam are mentioned in the table below.
DBT JRF 2023 Overview |
|
Conducting Body |
Department of Biotechnology Under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India |
DBT JRF Full Form |
Department of Biotechnology Junior Research Fellowship |
Exam Level |
National |
Exam Frequency |
Annually |
Mode of Application |
Online |
Mode of Exam |
Online (CBT) |
Exam Duration |
03 Hours |
Total Fellowships |
Category 1: 275 Category 2: 100 |
Official Website |
dbtjrf.gov.in |
DBT JRF Exam Date 2023
The exam conducting authority releases DBT JRF Exam Date along with the official notification. The DBT JRF 2023 was conducted on 13 May 2023. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held on 23 April 2023. Candidates must stay updated with the exam schedule to avoid missing out any important event. Moreover, it will help them strategize their preparations and easily clear the exam. Take a look at the table below to know the complete exam schedule of DBT JRF.
Events |
DBT JRF Important Dates |
Apply Online Start Date |
10 March 2023 |
Last date to Apply Online |
31 March 2023 |
Admit Card Release date |
10 May 2023 |
DBT JRF 2023 Exam Date |
13 May 2023 |
Result Declaration Date |
09 June 2023 |
DBT JRF Eligibility
The Department of Biotechnology has set specific eligibility criteria to ensure that only deserving candidates are selected for the Junior Research Fellowship. These criteria typically include factors such as nationality, age limit, and educational qualifications.
Knowing the DBT JRF 2023 eligibility criteria in advance allows candidates to evaluate their qualifications and make an informed decision regarding their eligibility. It prevents individuals who do not meet the necessary requirements from wasting their time and effort.
DBT JRF Age Limit
The maximum age limit for General and OBC category candidates is 28 years. However, age relaxations are provided to certain categories as per government rules. SC/ST/PWD and women candidates are eligible for a relaxation of 5 years in the age limit, while OBC candidates can avail a relaxation of 3 years.
DBT JRF Qualification
As per the eligibility criteria mentioned in DBT JRF Notification, candidates must hold a BE/B.Tech degree in biotechnology or an M.Sc/M.Tech/M.V.Sc. Degree in various biotechnology specializations. Candidates with an M.Sc in Neuroscience and Molecular & Human Genetics are also eligible. The qualifying degree must be completed with at least 60% marks (55% for SC/ST/PWD candidates).
DBT JRF Exam Pattern
DBT JRF exam consists of two parts. Part A comprises 50 questions for 150 marks, while Part B has 150 questions, of which the candidate needs to attempt only 50. Aspirants will have to attempt both sections within 3 hours.
Having a detailed knowledge of it, candidates can confidently approach the exam, knowing what to expect and how to attempt maximum questions from different sections within the allotted time.
Sections |
Number of Questions |
Marks |
Section A (General Science, Mathematics, Chemistry, quantitative ability, general biotechnology, General aptitude, analytical, etc.) |
50 |
150 |
Section B (Subject-specific) |
150 (candidates need to attempt only 50 questions) |
150 |
Total |
200 |
300 |
DBT JRF Syllabus
The syllabus for the DBT JRF exam covers a wide range of topics related to biotechnology and its allied fields. Some of the key areas one must focus on are listed below.
- Aptitude: Quantitative ability, Chemistry, Odd one out, etc.
- Agricultural Biotechnology: Biodiversity, Physiology, Plant Biology, Molecular Biology, Seed Technology, etc.
- Environmental Biotechnology: Environment Pollution, Waste Water Treatment Systems, Water Pollution, Basic Ecological Concepts and Principles, etc.
- Bioinformatics & Computational Biology: Proteins, DNA & RNA secondary, Sequence Analysis, etc.
- Animal Biotechnology: Animal Genetics, Pathology, Molecular Diagnostics, Animal Virology, Animal Parasitology, Immunology, Research Methodologies etc.
DBT JRF Previous Year Question Paper
Downloading DBT JRF Previous Year Paper can provide significant benefits to candidates preparing for the exam. One key advantage is a clear understanding of the exam pattern. By analyzing the DBT JRF Previous Year Question Papers, candidates can familiarize themselves with the types of questions asked, distribution of marks, and time allocation for each section. This will help them to devise an effective preparation strategy and allocate sufficient time to different sections based on their weightage.
Another benefit is knowing the important topics. Solving previous year’s papers will help them identify topics that are frequently covered in the DBT JRF exam. It will also boost their confidence and time management skills.
DBT JRF Cut Off
The cut-off marks for the DBT JRF exam vary each year and are determined based on various factors such as the number of applicants, the difficulty level of the exam, and the availability of fellowships. To qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship, candidates must secure a minimum percentage of marks in Part A and Part B. The exact DBT JRF cut off marks are announced along with the results.
DBT JRF Previous Year Cut Off Marks | ||
---|---|---|
Category |
For Category I |
For Category II |
UnReserved |
181 |
171 |
EWS |
175 |
163 |
OBC |
162 |
153 |
SC |
154 |
144 |
ST |
148 |
137 |
PwD |
152 |
133 |
Frequently Asked Questions on DBT JRF
What is DBT JRF 2023?
DBT JRF stands for Department of Biotechnology Junior Research Fellowship. It is a national-level examination conducted by the Department of Biotechnology and National Aptitude Agency to select candidates for the award of Junior Research Fellowships in the biotechnology field.
What is the Syllabus of DBT JRF Exam?
The syllabus for the DBT JRF exam primarily covers various topics in the biotechnology field. It includes subjects such as Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology, Plant Biotechnology, Biostatistics, and Environmental Biotechnology.
How to Prepare for DBT JRF Exam?
To prepare for the DBT JRF exam, candidates should start by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus. They should create a study plan, gather relevant study materials, and focus on fundamental concepts. Regular practice with the previous year question papers and mock tests is also important for effective preparation.
How to Apply Online for DBT JRF?
Candidates need to visit the official website to apply online for the DBT JRF exam. Click on the DBT JRF application form link and enter the accurate details. Upload the necessary documents and pay the application fee before submitting your application form.