Top Research Institutes in India for Science Students in 2026

India's top scientific institutions for advanced studies, innovation, and research.
UniList Desk

Updated Feb 25, 2026 | 05:45 PM IST

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Science research in India is growing rapidly. We now have excellent institutes that offer strong programmes in science, technology, biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, space science, and more. These institutes help students become scientists, innovators, and researchers. Here is a simple guide for students planning to join research institutes in 2026.

Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru

The Indian Institute of Science is India’s science and research institute. It offers MSc, MTech and PhD programmes in science and engineering. Students get to use labs and work on research projects, and partner with industries. The Indian Institute of Science is always ranked number one in science research in India.
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)
IIT Madras is known for technology and science research. It has labs in physics, chemistry, AI and data science. Students can do research during their BTech, MTech and PhD programmes at IIT Madras. Working with industries helps students learn practically and get jobs.

Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi)

IIT Delhi is a choice for science and engineering students. It supports research in areas like nanotechnology, materials science, renewable energy and more at IIT Delhi. The PhD research at IIT Delhi is highly valued and connected with industry projects.

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay)

IIT Bombay is a leading research hub for physics, chemistry, biotechnology and computer science. It also offers research internships and collaborative projects that students can join early in their studies at IIT Bombay.

Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) Mumbai

The Homi Bhabha National Institute specialises in science, radiation physics, chemical science and more. It offers research degrees linked with national labs like BARC and TIFR. The Homi Bhabha National Institute is ideal for students who want science careers in research facilities.

Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) Hyderabad

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology is one of India’s life science research centres. It focuses on genetics, molecular biology, cell science and biotechnology. Students interested in biology and genetics research can aim to do their PhD work at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology.

Raman Research Institute (RRI) Bengaluru

The Raman Research Institute was founded by Nobel-laureate CV Raman. It focuses on astronomy, physics and space research. It offers research opportunities in astrophysics and theoretical sciences. The Raman Research Institute is great for students who love physics.

Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) Mohali

The Institute of Nano Science and Technology is a growing research centre for nanoscience and nano-engineering. It works on technology in nanomaterials, energy systems, robotics materials and biomedical science. Science students interested in cutting-edge research should consider the Institute of Nano Science and Technology.

Indian Institute of Space. Technology (IIST) Thiruvananthapuram

The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology is run by ISRO. It focuses on space science and engineering. The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology is a choice for students aiming for research in space technology, satellite engineering, astronomy and related sciences.

University of Delhi (DU)

The University of Delhi is one of India’s universities. It has science departments and research labs in physics, chemistry, math and life sciences. Students can continue from MSc to PhD at the University of Delhi.

Admission Tips for Students

  • You should start preparing for entrance exams such as JEST, GATE, JRF NET, IIST entrance, and institute entrance exams well in advance.
  • You should concentrate on your area of interest while selecting institutes and guides.
  • You should apply for internships and summer research programs to enhance your profile.
  • Government institutes provide scholarships and stipends for MSc, MTech, and PhD students.
Choosing the right research institute can shape your science career. You should start planning your applications. These institutes offer learning, research facilities and future job advantages for Indian science students in 2026 and, beyond.

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