BENGALURU – The United States and India are set to significantly bolster their strategic technology collaboration with the launch of the US-India TRUST Fellowship. Announced by US Ambassador to India and Special Envoy to South and Central Asia, Sergio Gor, the program will facilitate high-impact academic and scientific partnerships between the two nations.
Under this new fellowship, up to 20 American postdoctoral researchers will embark on collaborative research at leading Indian institutions, including IIT Madras, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru, and the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). The initiative directly aligns with the joint commitment of US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to advance strategic technology cooperation.
Focus Areas and Program Details
The 12-month fellowship will concentrate on critical strategic domains vital to both countries' future. These include Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Semiconductors, Defence and Space technologies, Biotechnology, and Energy. Researchers will engage in cutting-edge projects designed to foster innovation and deliver tangible outcomes such as joint publications, patents, and commercial applications.
Ambassador Gor, speaking in Bengaluru, emphasized a vision for the bilateral relationship focused on delivering “real results” for citizens in both nations through targeted scientific and economic collaboration. He highlighted that this partnership serves as a cornerstone for deeper engagement moving forward.
Public-Private Partnership and Benefits
The US-India TRUST Fellowship operates as a public-private partnership, with significant support from the US Consulate General in Chennai, IISc Bengaluru, IIT Madras, and MAHE. Key private sponsors include Kris Gopalakrishnan’s Pratiksha Trust and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw’s Mazumdar Shaw Philanthropy (MSP).
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support, including a monthly stipend of $1,650 (approximately ₹1.56 lakh), complimentary on-campus housing and meals, health insurance, visa and logistical assistance, and one round-trip economy airfare. The program is specifically designed for postdoctoral researchers and early-career faculty from leading US institutions, with a preference for US citizens who have limited prior research experience in India.
Application Process
Eligible candidates interested in these strategic technology areas can apply by submitting an academic CV, a two-to-three-page research proposal, and an optional host faculty consent letter via email. This fellowship represents a major step in reinforcing the robust academic and scientific ties between the United States and India.