A scheme that draws scientists but leaves them in the lurch 

A scheme that draws scientists but leaves them in the lurch 

Context

A scholarship scheme managed by the Centre’s Department of Science and Technology (DST) to help young, talented scientists embark on independent research careers at Indian labs is drawing flak with complaints of harassment, tardy fund disbursal and concerns that the scheme hasn’t catalysed enough jobs.

 

Claims of success

The DST claimed the programme is a success. Of the 238 fellows selected in 2011 and 2012 or those who’ve reached the end of the fellowship, 143 or about 60% have got full-time jobs.

“Globally, 5%-10% of the doctoral researchers get permanent positions… this is by comparison an excellent turnout,” said Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, DST. “However we cannot force universities to recruit students.” A “combination of circumstances” — the Fellow’s ability to gel with the institute’s functioning, their performance and luck played a role in a candidate’s success.

“I’m aware that some faculty are unhappy but ultimately 100% placement is impossible and it has always been explicitly made clear that the fellowship isn’t a guarantee of employment,” he added.

Ph.Ds on the rise

  • According to the latest available statistics from the government, the number of science Ph.Ds is on the rise. In 2010-2011 5,271 doctoral degrees in science were awarded and this rose to 7,617 in 2014-2015
  • Relative to doctoral degrees awarded in all fields, however, there was a dip to 50% from 63.5% in the same period partly due to a rise in engineering-and-technology Ph.Ds to 28% from 20% in the same period. 

Systemic problem

  • This, even as several vacancies abound in colleges. As per the University Grants Commission, of the 9,878 Assistant Professorpositions2,457 are vacant
  • Gautam Desiraju, a professor of chemistry, at the Indian Institute of Science, said there was a “systemic problem” in how the scheme had unfolded over the years
  • Universities frequently had opaque hiring procedures and “corruption” was rife at several State universities.
  • Moreover, many leading institutions — including the IITs — didn’t recruit entry-level professors over 35, further queering the pitch for a new INSPIRE faculty member.
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