CBRAIN Internship Program: Your Guide to Research at IISc

The Centre for Brain Research (CBR), located at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, offers the CBRAIN Internship Program. This structured program is for students and young professionals who want hands-on research experience in neuroscience, especially brain aging.

Applications for the 2025 cycle closed on May 19, 2025. The next cycle is expected to open around the same time next year. While waiting for the next application period, you can review the eligibility criteria and start gathering the necessary documents. Preparing now will ensure you are ready to apply when the next cycle opens.

Overview of the internship program

The CBRAIN Internship offers an opportunity to work with scientists in neuroscience and neurodegenerative diseases. Interns participate in research on the aging brain, covering molecular biology, cellular neuroscience, and neurophysiology. The program aims to develop future research leaders by providing practical exposure and supporting scientific thinking.

Internship duration and schedule

• Duration: 3 months (Full-time)
• Tentative Start: June
• End Date: August/September (depending on start date)

Shorter durations are typically not accepted. Longer engagements may be considered for exceptional cases based on performance and interest.

Monthly stipend

Each selected intern receives a stipend of ₹20,000 per month for the duration of the internship. Please note:

• Travel and accommodation are not provided.
• Interns must arrange for housing and transportation in Bengaluru independently.

Eligibility criteria

To apply, candidates must meet the following academic criteria:

• Be in the pre-final or final year of:
  • Bachelor’s degree (B.E/B.Tech/B.Sc) or
  • Master’s degree (M.E/M.Tech/M.Sc) in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or related disciplines.
• Alternatively, students in the pre-final or final year of MBBS, MD, MS, MDS, MPH are also encouraged to apply.
• Applicants must study at a recognized institution within India.

Additional Criteria:

• A demonstrated interest in research on aging, brain sciences, or neurobiology is preferred.
• Must be self-motivated and able to commit full-time during the internship.

Key dates

What you will work on

Interns will be engaged in various research modules focused on the aging brain, including:

• Molecular and cellular changes associated with neurodegeneration
• Behavioral and cognitive neuroscience
• Application of wet-lab techniques for experimental analysis

Each intern will be paired with a mentor and may collaborate across teams, depending on the selected project. A detailed report and possibly a poster presentation are expected upon program completion.

Learning opportunities and program features

• Work under expert mentorship from CBR scientists
• Attend journal clubs, research seminars, and lab meetings
• Contribute to scientific research
• Receive training in state-of-the-art laboratory techniques
• Earn an internship certificate upon successful completion

Application process: step-by-step guide

Interested candidates must apply online by filling out the application form provided by the Centre for Brain Research.

How to apply:

1. Visit the official website:https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=HJASemHlg0uZWY5kNief2BiNyYqixWJIqDL7PwjkI5RURVBLVjRMTzREVURUQ0pNM08yNFlDSk43TC4u&route=shorturl
2. Navigate to the CBRAIN Internship section.
3. Click on the link to access the application form.
4. Fill in all the required details, including:
   • Personal and academic information
   • Preferred research topics (up to 3 choices)
   • A statement of purpose (motivation and career alignment)
   • Referee contact details (letters of recommendation are not initially required)
5. Applications for the 2025 cycle closed on 19 May 2025 (11:59 PM IST).

Important tips for a strong application

• Statement of Purpose: Clearly explain why you are applying, your interest in neuroscience or aging, and how this internship fits into your career plans.
• Topic Selection: Choose your top three project areas based on genuine interest and prior knowledge.
• Recommendation Details: Ensure your referees are informed ahead of time in case letters are later requested.
• Accuracy: Double-check all academic credentials and contact details before submission.

CBRAIN internship result – how to check

The results for the 2025 CBRAIN Internship Program were announced by the end of May 2025. Applicants are advised to regularly check the official website of the Centre for Brain Research (CBR) for updates on future cycles.

Once results are published, they will likely be available under the CBRAIN Internship section on the CBR website:

Official Website: https://cbr-iisc.ac.in

If your name appears in the selection list, make sure to follow the further instructions provided by CBR, including submission of the No Objection Certificate (NOC) and any other required documents.

For any specific queries regarding results or the next steps, applicants may write to academics@cbr-iisc.ac.in with the subject line “CBRAIN Internship.”

Post-selection requirements

If selected, candidates must provide:

• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their department or institution head.
• Any additional documentation as requested by CBR.

Selected interns are expected to comply with:

• CBR’s working hours
• Code of conduct and research ethics
• Participation in institutional events and activities

Contact & support

For any inquiries, applicants may write to:

Email: academics@cbr-iisc.ac.in
Subject Line: CBRAIN Internship
Phone: +91 80 2293 3588

Institution Address:
Centre for Brain Research
Indian Institute of Science Campus
CV Raman Avenue, Bangalore – 560012, India