The TIFR Interdisciplinary Programme in the Physics of Life (TIFR-PoL) targets exceptionally creative and adventurous students with strong foundations in physics, engineering and computer science, who seek to carry out cutting-edge theoretical and experimental research in biology.
The study of living systems presents some of the most profound and challenging problems in science, including the origin of life, the evolution of complexity, and the functioning of the brain. Each question requires us to build connections between physics and chemistry at molecular scales, with outcomes at cellular, organismal and ecosystem scales. Over the past decade, ideas from physics, engineering and computer science have become indispensable to biology.
The TIFR-PoL is a special stream within the TIFR graduate programme that provides unique flexibilities and resources for students with quantitative backgrounds. Foundational courses rapidly introduce biological phenomenology at all scales, from molecules to organisms and ecosystems. Advanced courses spanning soft and active matter physics, informational and data sciences, and modern experimental methods, expand and strengthen quantitative skills. Students in the programme can work with participating faculty members and groups in ICTS and NCBS to define and address research questions that expand our quantitative and conceptual understanding of living systems.
ELIGIBILITY
BE/B Tech/ME/ M Tech/ MSc/MS degrees in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Engineering or Computer Science
HOW TO APPLY
Applications are open for the TIFR-PoL Programme 2025 through GATE/ CSIR-NET (JRF-eligible)
GATE: Above 95 percentile for all the streams below (with a rank valid in May 2025)
Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science & Information Technology, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Ecology and Evolution, Engineering Sciences, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Statistics
Candidates do not need to have any background in biological areas. A strong background in one’s own subject and an interest in interdisciplinary life science research is required for the TIFR-PoL Programme.
Application deadline: 31 May 2025
Referee deadline: 03 June 2025
Application link: https://applications.icts.res.in/gs/biophysics/node/add/application/7806
ICTS and NCBS are committed to building an environment that is inclusive, non-discriminatory and welcoming of diverse individuals. We especially encourage the participation of women and other under-represented groups.
For any queries contact us at : pol@icts.res.in