The CSIR-DAAD Call for Proposals for the Bilateral Exchanges of Scientists/Academics 2026 is now open for researchers seeking to build scientific links between India and Germany.

The programme supports research exchanges between scientists from India's Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and academics or researchers at German universities and research institutions.

The exchange can last from 14 days to three months. Support covers international travel, accommodation and living costs under the respective CSIR and DAAD arrangements.

Unlike a normal scholarship, this programme is built around a joint research project.

That distinction matters.

Applicants are expected to work with a German research partner on a clear research activity. The proposed visit should help both sides achieve a research goal that would benefit from access to the partner's expertise, equipment, laboratory or research environment.

The 2026 call is especially relevant to CSIR scientists who want to deepen an existing research relationship with Germany or establish a focused new collaboration.

The official CSIR website currently lists the 2026 call with a submission deadline of 10 September 2026.

There is also a date discrepancy on the India Science, Technology & Innovation portal, which currently lists 9 October 2026. Because the CSIR notice is the primary call source for the Indian application, applicants should rely on the date stated in the current CSIR call document and verify the portal before submitting.

What Is the CSIR-DAAD Bilateral Exchange Programme?

The CSIR-DAAD programme is a research mobility scheme between India and Germany.

It allows scientists and academics from both countries to spend a defined period working at a partner institution in the other country.

The programme is based on an Agreement of Cooperation between CSIR and the German Academic Exchange Service, or DAAD.

The agreement was signed in January 2023 and exchanged in October 2023. It provides the current framework for bilateral scientific exchange between CSIR laboratories in India and German academic or research institutions.

The programme has a long history.

CSIR has been connecting Indian research scholars with German scientists through DAAD-supported programmes since 1965. The present arrangement builds on that long relationship and gives it a renewed framework for scientific and technological cooperation.

The goal is straightforward.

Researchers from India and Germany should work together, share expertise, use each other's facilities and develop research that can lead to stronger long-term cooperation.

What Is the Main Objective of the CSIR-DAAD Call?

The main objective is to strengthen scientific and technological collaboration between India and Germany.

The programme is not intended simply to pay for an overseas trip.

The proposed visit should have a clear research purpose.

For example, an Indian scientist may need access to a specialised German laboratory to perform experiments that are not available at their CSIR institute.

A German researcher may, in turn, need access to a CSIR facility, Indian research material or specialised expertise available in India.

The programme encourages this kind of two-way relationship.

CSIR and DAAD specifically seek exchanges that improve bilateral research cooperation and international scientific relations.

The strongest applications are therefore likely to be those where both researchers have a genuine reason to work together.

Who Is Eligible for the CSIR-DAAD Call?

The eligibility rules are important because this is not an open fellowship for every researcher in India.

For the Indian side, the applicant must be a permanent employee of CSIR, India.

The programme is aimed at university teachers and experienced academics and scientists. The general eligibility framework also requires the candidate to hold a doctorate and work at a university or research institution in their home country.

For the CSIR applicant, the key requirement is therefore:

• You must be a permanent CSIR employee.
• You should hold a doctorate.
• You should have an established research profile.
• You need a suitable German research partner.
• Your proposed work must have a clear research purpose.
• The German host must agree to the proposed collaboration.
• A reciprocal visit to India should also be agreed upon.

For the German side, the researcher should work at a university or research institution in Germany.

The German researcher also needs to have an agreed research activity with the CSIR counterpart.

Is the CSIR-DAAD Programme Open to All Research Fields?

Yes, the programme is broad.

The call states that the exchange is open to all subject areas available for research at CSIR institutes.

This means the programme is not limited to one scientific discipline.

Potential research areas can therefore include fields such as:

• Biological sciences
• Chemical sciences
• Physical sciences
• Engineering
• Materials science
• Environmental research
• Energy
• Biotechnology
• Pharmaceuticals
• Food science
• Agriculture-related research
• Information sciences
• Advanced manufacturing
• Nanotechnology
• Health research
• Earth and atmospheric sciences
• Industrial research

The important point is that the proposed work should fit the research activities and priorities of the relevant CSIR institute.

How Long Can the Research Exchange Last?

The CSIR-DAAD programme supports exchanges lasting between 14 days and three months.

A stay cannot be shorter than 14 days.

It also cannot exceed three months.

The final duration is not decided entirely by the applicant.

The joint selection process considers the proposed research plan and the amount of time needed to complete the work.

At least two-thirds of the stay should be spent at one main host institution.

This rule helps ensure that the exchange remains focused.

Researchers should therefore avoid creating an itinerary that involves too many institutions without a clear research reason.

The grant also cannot simply be extended after approval.

Applicants should plan their research schedule carefully from the beginning.

What Does the CSIR-DAAD Programme Fund?

The programme provides support for both sides of the exchange.

For Indian scientists travelling to Germany, DAAD supports the stay in Germany while CSIR handles specified travel-related expenses.

For German researchers travelling to India, CSIR provides the relevant local hospitality support while DAAD handles the German side of the travel arrangement.

The funding therefore follows a reciprocal exchange model.

The aim is to support scientists moving in both directions rather than creating a one-way study visit.

Travel Support for Indian Scientists

Under the published CSIR-DAAD arrangements, CSIR covers economy-class return air travel through the shortest route.

CSIR also covers specified local travel expenses, such as airport transfers, and the visa fee.

DAAD separately provides its travel allowance under its applicable rules.

Applicants should therefore distinguish between:

Travel costs — handled by the sending side.

Hospitality and living costs — handled by the receiving side.

This division is important when planning the trip.

Living and Hospitality Support in Germany

For Indian scientists visiting Germany, DAAD provides a monthly allowance.

The published programme terms provide:

• €2,000 per month for junior researchers, lecturers and assistant professors.
• €2,150 per month for full professors.

The allowance is paid through the German host institution. DAAD notes that the rates can change from year to year.

Indian researchers should therefore check the current DAAD rate at the time of the award rather than assume that the published historical amount will remain unchanged.

Accommodation in Germany

Applicants need to understand that the programme is not necessarily a fully serviced travel package.

Researchers are expected to arrange their accommodation.

The published CSIR guidance advises scientists to plan their accommodation carefully and notes that the DAAD living allowance is not intended to support accompanying family members.

The programme also does not arrange airport reception for scientists arriving in Germany.

Researchers should therefore make their own arrival and accommodation arrangements before travelling.

What Does CSIR Provide for German Researchers Visiting India?

When a German scientist comes to India, CSIR provides local hospitality support.

The published programme terms provide:

• ₹2,500 per day for out-of-pocket expenses.
• Furnished guest-house or hotel accommodation costing up to ₹4,500 per day.

Where necessary, CSIR may also support an agreed work-related visit to another CSIR institute.

The purpose is to give the visiting German scientist a practical base from which to carry out the agreed research.

The host CSIR institute must therefore be ready to provide the necessary workplace and research facilities.

Is Health Insurance Included?

Yes, but the arrangements differ depending on the direction of travel.

For Indian scientists going to Germany, DAAD provides combined health, accident and liability insurance.

The insurance is mandatory for the German stay.

The insurance cost is deducted from the monthly DAAD payment.

For German scientists coming to India, CSIR provides medical coverage for minor ailments under its published programme terms.

German scientists may also access a fee-based insurance package if they wish to do so.

Researchers should read the current insurance terms before travelling.

What Is Not Funded?

The CSIR-DAAD programme is focused on research exchange.

It is not a general travel grant.

Several activities are specifically excluded.

Conference Attendance

Registration fees for conferences and other national or international events are not covered.

Lecture Tours

A proposal designed mainly around lectures is not eligible.

Congress Visits

Visits to congresses are not funded.

Seminar-Only Proposals

The programme does not accept proposals that only involve delivering lectures or seminars.

This is one of the clearest lessons for applicants.

Do not build the proposal around:

"I want to travel to Germany to attend a conference."

Instead, build it around:

"I will work with my German counterpart on a defined research problem, use specific facilities, conduct agreed experiments and produce defined research outputs."

That is much closer to the purpose of the programme.

Why the German Host Is So Important

A strong German host can make or break an application.

The applicant is expected to identify a German academic or scientist whose expertise and facilities match the proposed research.

The German host must provide written confirmation.

The confirmation should cover the planned duration, agreement to carry out the research together, availability of a workplace and consent to the reciprocal visit to India.

This means applicants should not wait until the application deadline to contact German researchers.

The relationship should be established early.

A good host is not simply someone willing to sign a letter.

The host should have a clear scientific reason to participate.

What Makes a Good German Host?

A suitable host may have:

• Specialised equipment;
• A laboratory that complements the CSIR facility;
• Expertise in the applicant's research area;
• Relevant publications;
• A strong research group;
• Access to data or samples;
• Technology that the CSIR scientist needs;
• Experience in the proposed research field;
• An established record of international cooperation.

The applicant should explain why that particular institution was selected.

The proposal should not simply say:

"Germany has advanced research facilities."

That is too general.

Instead, explain exactly what the German institution has that is important to the proposed research.

What Research Project Should Applicants Propose?

The project should be specific.

A good proposal should identify:

1. The research problem.
2. The current knowledge gap.
3. The proposed method.
4. Why the German partner is needed.
5. What work will happen in Germany.
6. What work will happen in India.
7. The expected results.
8. The value to CSIR.
9. The possibility of continuing the collaboration.

The exchange should form part of a larger research story.

For example, suppose a CSIR scientist is working on advanced materials.

The researcher may already have developed a material in India but needs a specialised German instrument to study its microscopic structure.

The German partner may provide that instrument and technical expertise.

The Indian scientist travels to Germany for several weeks.

The researchers conduct the analysis together.

The German researcher later travels to India to continue the work using the CSIR facility.

That is the kind of reciprocal relationship the programme is designed to support.

What Documents Are Required?

Applicants should prepare their documents carefully.

The published CSIR-DAAD application framework requires several supporting documents.

These include:

1. Curriculum Vitae

A full CV should be provided in the required format.

The published call limits the CV to three pages.

The CV should focus on research experience.

Important information includes:

• Academic qualifications;
• Current position;
• Research experience;
• Major projects;
• Publications;
• Patents;
• Awards;
• Research achievements;
• International experience.

Do not waste valuable space on unrelated personal information.

2. Publication and Patent List

Applicants must provide their academic and research publication record.

The published format allows up to three pages for publications and patents.

Focus on work that supports your proposed research.

3. Research Project Statement

This is one of the most important parts of the application.

The published requirements allow a comprehensive research project statement of up to 10 pages.

It should explain the joint activity or research project to be undertaken.

The document should be clear enough for a reviewer to understand:

• What you want to investigate;
• Why it matters;
• What is new;
• How you will conduct the work;
• What the German partner will contribute;
• What you will contribute;
• What results you expect.

4. Research Visit Time Plan

Applicants need a detailed plan for the proposed visit.

The plan should identify:

• Dates;
• Host institution;
• Host professor;
• Research activities;
• Location;
• Duration;
• Planned itinerary.

The full address of the proposed host institution and relevant academic hosts should also be included.

What Is Required From the German Host?

For a CSIR scientist travelling to Germany, the host must provide written confirmation.

The letter should confirm:

• Exact duration of stay;
• Agreement to the joint research activity;
• Agreement to the proposed research project;
• Availability of a workplace;
• Consent to the reciprocal visit to India.

These requirements show why applicants should build the relationship before submitting the proposal.

A generic invitation letter may not be enough.

The host should clearly refer to the research project.

What Does the CSIR Institute Director Need to Provide?

The application also requires a specific recommendation from the Director of the CSIR institute.

The recommendation should explain the institute's expectations from the proposed exchange and support the candidate's application.

This is another reason applicants should not leave the application until the last week.

Internal approvals can take time.

The applicant needs enough time to secure the Director's recommendation and complete the online submission.

What Is the Application Process?

The CSIR-DAAD application has two stages.

The first stage takes place through the CSIR International Cooperation Management System, or ICMS.

The second stage involves DAAD.

Stage 1: Apply Through CSIR

The CSIR scientist submits the proposal through the CSIR ICMS portal.

Hard-copy and fax submissions are not accepted under the published process.

The application must include the required research proposal and supporting documents.

The CSIR then conducts its own selection.

Stage 2: CSIR Pre-Selection

CSIR reviews the applications through an independent selection committee.

The committee evaluates the scientific quality of the applicant and the proposed research.

The strongest candidates are recommended for the next stage.

Stage 3: DAAD Submission

Candidates selected by CSIR are then directed to submit their applications through the DAAD portal.

The DAAD portal link is provided to the selected candidates by CSIR/ISTAD under the published process.

DAAD then carries out its own assessment.

Final selection depends on the joint process.

How Are Applications Evaluated?

The selection process focuses on three major areas.

Academic and Research Record

The applicant's academic achievements matter.

Reviewers can consider:

• Research publications;
• Patents;
• Research experience;
• Major scientific contributions;
• Awards;
• Previous research work.

The CV and publication list are therefore important parts of the application.

Quality of the Research Project

The proposed research must be convincing and well planned.

It should fit the relevant research priorities of CSIR.

The project should also make good use of the German research environment.

A vague project is unlikely to be competitive.

German Host's Commitment

The German host's consent is a key requirement.

The proposal should show that the German researcher is not simply providing an invitation.

The two researchers should have a genuine joint research plan.

What Does "Reciprocal Exchange" Mean?

Reciprocity is central to the CSIR-DAAD programme.

The programme is designed around an exchange between the two countries.

In simple terms:

Indian scientist → Germany

and

German scientist → India

The two visits should be connected to the same research activity.

The programme therefore discourages one-sided arrangements.

For example, an Indian scientist should not propose a German visit without discussing the corresponding participation of the German counterpart in India.

The published guidelines state that the Indian scientist's visit to Germany and the corresponding German visit to India should be agreed upon.

Why the Reciprocal Visit Matters

The reciprocal model creates benefits for both research systems.

The Indian scientist may gain access to German expertise and equipment.

The German scientist can gain access to CSIR laboratories, Indian research conditions, datasets, samples or specialised expertise.

The relationship can then continue after the exchange.

This is important because the programme is not simply about short-term travel.

It is about creating a foundation for longer scientific cooperation.

The guidelines specifically encourage project-specific exchanges.

If a research activity needs to continue, CSIR may consider further cooperation with Germany under a broader bilateral research arrangement.

What Are the Benefits for Indian Scientists?

The programme offers several practical benefits.

Access to Advanced Research Facilities

A scientist may be able to use equipment that is not available at their home laboratory.

That can significantly improve the quality of a research project.

International Research Experience

Working inside a German research institution exposes researchers to a different research environment.

It can also help scientists develop new technical skills.

Stronger Research Networks

A successful exchange can lead to future collaboration.

This may include:

• Joint publications;
• Joint research proposals;
• Shared projects;
• Student supervision;
• Technology development;
• Patent work;
• Longer-term institutional agreements.

Better Research Output

A focused international research stay can help researchers complete experiments, validate results or develop new methods.

International Visibility

Researchers who build credible international collaborations can strengthen their academic profile.

However, the programme should not be viewed simply as a way to improve a CV.

The research itself must remain the central reason for the exchange.

Benefits for German Researchers

The programme also offers important opportunities for German academics.

A German researcher can gain access to CSIR facilities and scientific expertise.

India also provides valuable research environments in areas such as:

• Biodiversity;
• Materials;
• Chemical sciences;
• Biotechnology;
• Agriculture;
• Environmental research;
• Energy;
• Pharmaceuticals;
• Engineering.

The exchange can also create opportunities for future research partnerships with Indian scientists.

What Makes a Strong CSIR-DAAD Proposal?

A strong proposal should be specific, practical and research-driven.

Here is a simple example.

Weak approach

"I want to visit Germany to learn about advanced materials research."

This does not explain enough.

Stronger approach

"I will work with Professor X at Institution Y to characterise the thermal and structural behaviour of a material developed at CSIR. The German laboratory has a specialised instrument that is not available at my CSIR institute. During the six-week visit, we will conduct the measurements, compare the results with our existing data and develop a joint publication. The German researcher will subsequently visit the CSIR laboratory to complete the next stage of the experiment."

The second version tells the reviewer:

• Who is involved;
• Where the work will happen;
• Why Germany is needed;
• What will be done;
• How long it will take;
• What comes next.

That is the level of detail applicants should aim for.

How to Explain Why Germany Is Necessary

One of the most important questions applicants should answer is:

Why can't this research be done entirely in India?

The answer should be factual.

Possible reasons include:

• Access to unique equipment;
• Specialised expertise;
• A particular experimental method;
• Access to a specialised research facility;
• Complementary datasets;
• Unique materials;
• A research technique available at the German institution;
• Expertise that complements the applicant's existing CSIR capabilities.

Do not simply say:

"Germany has better facilities."

That statement is too broad.

Instead, identify the exact capability that the German partner offers.

Intellectual Property Must Be Considered

Research collaborations can create new intellectual property.

That may include:

• Patents;
• New technologies;
• Research methods;
• Software;
• Designs;
• Commercial processes;
• New materials.

The CSIR application framework asks applicants to identify whether the proposed research involves intellectual property.

Where necessary, the parties should agree on IP arrangements before research disclosures or joint development begin.

This is especially important when the project has commercial potential.

Researchers should involve their institute's appropriate technology transfer or IP office where necessary.

Can the Research Lead to Commercialisation?

Yes.

The programme is not limited to theoretical research.

The application framework asks researchers to explain expected outputs, their likely uses and the commercialisation prospects of the proposed work.

This means applicants should think beyond publication.

For example, the research could lead to:

• A new technology;
• A new diagnostic method;
• A new material;
• An improved industrial process;
• A new software tool;
• A patent;
• A prototype;
• A new analytical method.

Where commercialisation is possible, the applicant should explain the path clearly.

Important Practical Advice About the Research Visit

Applicants should plan their visit around the research rather than tourism or general academic networking.

The published CSIR guidance has also advised applicants to avoid planning visits during periods when German institutions are commonly on vacation, unless the host specifically recommends the timing.

This is practical advice.

A three-month research visit is valuable only if the host laboratory is fully operational and the relevant researchers are available.

Applicants should therefore discuss dates with the German host before submitting the proposal.

What Applicants Should Avoid

Several common mistakes can weaken an application.

1. Choosing a Host Without a Research Reason

Do not select a German institution simply because it is prestigious.

Choose it because it has a capability that directly supports your research.

2. Making the Proposal Too General

"International collaboration" is not a research objective.

State exactly what you will investigate.

3. Focusing Only on Travel

The programme supports research exchange.

Travel is a means to achieve the research goal.

It is not the goal itself.

4. Proposing Only a Conference Visit

Conference participation is not the purpose of this programme.

Congress visits and registration fees are not funded.

5. Ignoring the German Visit to India

The programme is bilateral.

The German counterpart's visit to India should be part of the plan.

6. Leaving the Host Letter Until the Last Minute

The German host's written acceptance is an important document.

Start the conversation early.

7. Ignoring Internal CSIR Approvals

The Director's recommendation is required.

Applicants should therefore allow enough time for internal processing.

8. Submitting an Unrealistic Work Plan

A 14-day visit should not contain six months of research.

Match the research tasks to the time available.

How to Prepare a Strong Application

Applicants can follow a simple preparation process.

Step 1: Identify the Research Problem

Start with the scientific problem.

What needs to be solved?

Step 2: Find the Right German Researcher

Search for a German scientist whose work closely matches the problem.

Look at recent publications and laboratory facilities.

Step 3: Discuss the Research Together

Do not prepare the entire proposal alone.

Work with the German counterpart from the beginning.

Step 4: Define the Research Tasks

Break the project into practical activities.

For example:

Week 1: Laboratory orientation and sample preparation.

Weeks 2–4: Experiments and measurements.

Weeks 5–6: Data analysis.

Weeks 7–8: Joint interpretation and research output.

A real proposal should contain a much more detailed plan.

Step 5: Plan the Reciprocal Visit

Identify what the German scientist will do in India.

Make it part of the same research project.

Step 6: Secure the Host Letter

Get written confirmation from the German host.

Step 7: Obtain the CSIR Director's Recommendation

Begin this process early.

Step 8: Prepare the CV and Publication List

Follow the required page limits.

Step 9: Write the Research Proposal

Keep the language clear.

Explain technical terms where necessary.

Avoid unnecessary academic jargon.

Step 10: Submit Through CSIR ICMS

Complete the CSIR application before the deadline.

Step 11: Wait for CSIR Pre-Selection

Selected candidates will proceed to the DAAD stage.

Step 12: Complete the DAAD Application

Follow the instructions provided to CSIR-recommended applicants.

2026 CSIR-DAAD Important Dates

The CSIR website currently lists the 2026 call and gives the following key deadline:

Activity	2026 Date
CSIR-DAAD 2026 call	Open
CSIR application deadline	10 September 2026
Submission route	CSIR ICMS
DAAD stage	For CSIR-recommended applicants
Exchange duration	14 days to 3 months

CSIR's current news page clearly lists 10 September 2026 as the last date for the 2026 call.

However, the India Science, Technology & Innovation portal currently lists 9 October 2026 for the same opportunity.

Because these dates conflict, applicants should check the CSIR call PDF and ICMS submission page immediately before filing the application.

Do not assume that the later October date automatically applies to the CSIR submission.

Where to Apply

The Indian application is submitted through the CSIR International Cooperation Management System (ICMS).

The published CSIR process directs applicants to the CSIR website for the online submission.

The CSIR website currently carries the 2026 call under its official News, Calls and Events section.

CSIR Official News, Calls and Events

Applicants selected by CSIR will receive instructions for the DAAD stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the CSIR-DAAD programme a scholarship?

It is better described as a bilateral research exchange programme.

It provides financial support for scientists and academics to conduct agreed research activities in partner institutions in India and Germany.

Can non-CSIR Indian university professors apply directly?

The Indian side of this specific programme requires the Indian applicant to be a permanent CSIR employee.

The programme is built around CSIR institutes in India and German academic or research institutions.

Do I need a PhD?

The programme is aimed at doctoral-level and experienced researchers.

The eligibility information states that the candidate should have a doctorate.

How long can I stay in Germany?

The exchange stay must be at least 14 days and no longer than three months.

Can I attend a conference during the visit?

Conference participation is not the purpose of the programme, and registration fees are not covered.

The proposal should focus on joint research.

Does DAAD pay for accommodation?

The DAAD allowance is intended to support the researcher during the stay, while the exact accommodation arrangement follows the applicable programme rules.

Applicants should plan accommodation themselves and budget carefully.

Can I take my family?

The published CSIR guidance advises researchers not to take their families because the living allowance is not designed to cover family maintenance.

Does the German researcher also have to visit India?

Yes.

The programme is based on reciprocal exchange.

The German counterpart's visit to India should be agreed as part of the joint research activity.

Can the research be continued after the exchange?

Yes.

The guidelines indicate that if the research activity needs to continue, CSIR may be approached for further bilateral cooperation with Germany.

Is there a separate DAAD application?

Yes.

The process begins with CSIR.

Candidates recommended by CSIR then proceed to the DAAD application stage.

Final Takeaway

The CSIR-DAAD Call for Proposals for the Bilateral Exchanges of Scientists/Academics 2026 is a valuable opportunity for CSIR scientists who want to develop meaningful research partnerships with Germany.

It offers something more useful than a short overseas visit.

It gives researchers the chance to spend focused time inside another research environment, use specialised facilities, learn new methods and work directly with an international counterpart.

The programme also works both ways.

Indian scientists can travel to German universities and research institutions.

German researchers can visit CSIR laboratories in India.

That reciprocal structure is one of the most important features of the programme.

Applicants should therefore think of the opportunity as a joint research project with an international exchange component, not as a travel fellowship.

The strongest proposals will have a clear research question, a capable German partner, a realistic work plan, strong institutional support and measurable research outcomes.

The proposal should also explain why the work needs to happen in Germany and what the German researcher will gain from working in India.

Most importantly, applicants should start early.

Finding a suitable German partner takes time.

Securing a host acceptance letter takes time.

Obtaining the CSIR institute Director's recommendation takes time.

Preparing a strong research proposal also takes time.

For the 2026 round, CSIR currently lists 10 September 2026 as the submission deadline. The separate India Science, Technology & Innovation portal shows 9 October 2026, so applicants should verify the deadline on the current CSIR notice and ICMS portal before submitting.

For an eligible CSIR scientist with a serious research project and a strong German counterpart, this programme can become the starting point for much more than a single research visit.

It can lead to new research results, stronger international networks, joint publications, patents, technology development and longer-term India-Germany scientific cooperation.

In short: find the right research problem, find the right German partner, build a genuine joint project and make every day of the proposed exchange serve that research goal.