Overview

Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad, is a premier national research institute in space and allied sciences, established in 1947 by Dr. Vikram Sarabhai. It is an autonomous institution under the Department of Space, Government of India. Located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, PRL focuses primarily on advanced research in space science, astrophysics, astronomy, and atmospheric sciences.

Type: Autonomous Research Institute (Central Govt. funded)
Year Established: 1947
City/State: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Campus: Single main campus in Ahmedabad
Approvals & Affiliations: Recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for PhD programs; affiliated with Department of Space, Government of India
NAAC Grade: Not applicable as PRL is not a typical university
Official Website: https://www.prl.res.in

Quick Facts

• Founder: Dr. Vikram Sarabhai
• Director: Dr. Dipankar Banerjee (as of 2024)
• Student Count: ~150 (mainly PhD and research scholars)
• Faculty Members: ~50 research faculty
• Contact Info: PRL, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad - 380009; Phone: +91-79-2631-3531; Email: prl@prl.res.in
• NAAC Grade: Not applicable
• NIRF Rank: Not ranked (NIRF does not rank research institutions)

Courses & Programs

• Faculties: Science (Physics, Space Science, Astrophysics, Geosciences, Atmospheric & Ocean Sciences)
• Popular Programs: PhD in Physical Sciences and Space Sciences; Integrated MTech-PhD programs
• Duration: PhD (typically 3-5 years), Integrated MTech-PhD (5 years)
• Mode: Regular (full-time)
• Intake: Limited, through highly competitive national-level entrance

Admissions

• Admission Mode: Merit-based through national-level examinations and research aptitude tests
• Accepted Exams: GATE, JEST (Joint Entrance Screening Test), NET-JRF, and PRL’s own screening
• Typical Timeline: Applications open around March-April; interviews and tests in May-June
• Admission Link: PRL Admissions
• Application Steps:
  1. Check eligibility and entrance exam requirements.
  2. Fill online application form on the PRL official website.
  3. Submit required documents (transcripts, entrance scores, ID proofs).
  4. Appear for written test/interview as notified.
  5. Wait for final merit list announcement.

Eligibility

• PhD Programs: Master’s degree (MSc/MTech) in physics, space science, or allied fields from a recognized university.
• Minimum Marks: ≥60% or equivalent grade.
• Age Limit: Not strictly specified; relaxations as per Govt. of India rules.
• Documents Needed: Degree certificates, mark sheets, proof of age, entrance scorecards, identity proof, category certificates (if applicable).

Fee & Scholarships

• Fees: Nominal tuition fees as per UGC rates (approx. ₹5,000/year for PhD students); hostel fees extra if applicable.
• Scholarships: Fellowships provided by Department of Space and DST for PhD scholars; government scholarships for SC/ST/OBC/EWS; JRF/SRF fellowships for meritorious candidates.
• More Info: Financial Assistance & Scholarships

Placements

• Placement %: Approximately 80-90% of candidates proceed to research, academia, or industry roles.
• Average CTC: ₹7-12 LPA for astrophysics and research roles (varies widely)
• Recruiters: ISRO, DRDO, academic institutes, research labs, national and international universities
• Placement Cell: Integrated within Training & Placement Office, PRL; contact via official email
• Internships: Offered in collaboration with ISRO and international research partners

Campus & Facilities

• Well-equipped research laboratories, high-end computational facilities.
• On-campus hostel for students and scholars.
• Central library with extensive collections in physics and space sciences.
• Sports grounds, cafeteria, healthcare services.
• Wi-Fi campus and transportation access available.
• Active student clubs and scientific societies organize workshops and annual festivals.

Faculty & Research

• Distinguished scientists including fellows of Indian academies and national awardees.
• Multiple specialized research centers: Astronomy & Astrophysics, Cosmic Rays, Space & Atmospheric Sciences.
• Research grants from ISRO, DST, MoES, international collaborations.
• Active patent filings and MoUs with global institutions like NASA, ESA.

Rankings

• NIRF: Not ranked (not an educational university)
• NAAC: Not applicable
• QS/India Today/Outlook: Not applicable

Results, Cut-Offs & Seat Matrix

• Results: Published on official site post admission tests.
• Cut-offs: Vary annually depending on entrance exams (GATE/JEST scores typically ≥80 percentile)
• Seat Matrix: Limited seats (approx. 15-20 PhD/year)
• Official sources: Admission Notifications

How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad (~13 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Ahmedabad Junction Railway Station (~5 km)
• Local Transit: City buses, auto-rickshaws, app-based cabs available
• By Road: Easily accessible from Ahmedabad city center via NH947

FAQs

1. Q: Does PRL offer undergraduate courses?
   A: No, PRL primarily offers PhD and integrated MTech-PhD research programs.
2. Q: What is the admission process for PhD at PRL?
   A: Admissions are based on national exams like GATE/JEST and PRL’s own screening, followed by interviews.
3. Q: Are there scholarships available?
   A: Yes, various government and institute fellowships are available for admitted candidates.
4. Q: Does PRL have hostel facilities?
   A: Yes, on-campus hostels are provided for research scholars.
5. Q: Can international students apply?
   A: Yes, PRL accepts international students through specified procedures.
6. Q: What documents are required for admission?
   A: Degree certificates, mark sheets, entrance exam scores, ID proof, category certificates if applicable.
7. Q: Is PRL recognized by UGC or AICTE?
   A: PRL is an autonomous research institute recognized by UGC for research degrees.
8. Q: How can I contact the admission office?
   A: Email dscience@prl.res.in or call +91-79-2631-3531.