The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have confirmed that the CSIR-NET and DBT-BET examinations will be merged into a single Joint CSIR–UGC–DBT JRF-NET exam starting with the December 2026 cycle.
This structural reform marks a major shift in how national eligibility tests for research and academic roles in science will be conducted, especially in the fields of life sciences and biotechnology.
Unified JRF-NET Exam for Science Research Eligibility
Under the new framework, the CSIR-NET (traditionally conducted for Junior Research Fellowship and Lectureship eligibility in science disciplines) and the DBT-BET (Biotechnology Eligibility Test) will no longer be held separately. Instead, a combined Joint CSIR–UGC–DBT JRF-NET examination will be implemented from the December 2026 examination cycle.
This merge aims to reduce redundancy and overlap between the two tests, especially for candidates interested in life sciences and biotechnology research, providing a single national-level route to qualify for JRF awards and academic eligibility.
Background and Official Notification
The announcement follows official notices by government bodies outlining the introduction of the Joint CSIR–UGC–DBT JRF-NET examination, which will take effect from the December 2026 cycle. This initiative has been formally shared through relevant stakeholder communications and public notices by the Department of Biotechnology and CSIR-Human Resource Development Group.
Expected Impact of the New Exam Structure
The unified JRF-NET exam is expected to:
- Streamline eligibility testing for research roles across life sciences and biotechnology
- Avoid duplication of separate CSIR and DBT tests
- Broaden the scope of candidates qualifying for JRF and Assistant Professorship
- Align research eligibility testing more closely with interdisciplinary science trends
While specific details on the syllabus, pattern, and registration timeline are yet to be fully released, candidates and stakeholders in the academic research community should monitor official notifications and websites for further updates related to the Joint CSIR–UGC–DBT JRF-NET examination starting in December 2026.