Overview

National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune, also known simply as NCL Pune, is a premier research institution under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Government of India. Established in 1950, it is located in Pune, Maharashtra. NCL is a Central Government-funded autonomous research laboratory specializing in chemical sciences and engineering. While not a university, NCL offers PhD and research programs in chemical sciences under various affiliated universities. It is not accredited by UGC/AICTE but recognized as a leading CSIR laboratory with advanced research facilities.

Official website: https://www.ncl-india.org

Quick Facts

• Founder Director: Dr. Prafulla Chandra Ray (historical figure in Indian chemistry, honored)
• Current Director: Dr. Ashwini Nangia
• Student Count: Not applicable; research scholars affiliated with universities
• Departments & Faculties: Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Catalysis, Polymers, Biochemical Sciences
• Contact: +91 20 2590 2000, Email: ncl@ncl.res.in
• NAAC Grade: Not applicable
• NIRF Ranking: Not applicable

Courses & Programs

• Faculties: Science and Engineering (Chemical Sciences)
• Popular Programs: PhD in Chemical Sciences, Integrated PhD, Research Fellowships (JRF, SRF)
• Duration: Typically 3-5 years for PhD
• Mode: Regular full-time research only
• Intake: Based on competitive national fellowships and CSIR-UGC NET examinations

Admissions

1. Mode: Admission primarily through national level fellowships and university registrations
2. Exams Accepted: CSIR-UGC NET (JRF), GATE (chemical sciences/engineering)
3. Admission Timeline: Annually, aligned with CSIR exam results and university academic calendar (April - July)
4. Admission Link: NCL Academic Programs
5. Application Process: Apply online through respective universities and CSIR NET exams; research scholars enroll through universities

Eligibility

• PhD Courses: Master’s degree in Chemical Science/Engineering with minimum 55% marks or equivalent
• Exams: Qualified CSIR-UGC NET (JRF) or GATE; some cases through university-based entrance
• Documents Required: Academic transcripts, NET/GATE scorecard, research proposal, identity proof, recommendation letters

Fee & Scholarships

• Fees: Not applicable directly; students pay fees to affiliated universities
• Scholarships: CSIR-JRF, DBT, DST fellowships available for research scholars
• Government Scholarships: SC/ST/OBC/EWS scholarships offered per government norms via universities

Placements

• Placement Details: Not applicable—primarily research-based institute
• Internships: Available for MSc/MTech students via research projects and summer internships
• Industry Collaboration: Tie-ups with chemical and pharma companies; students often recruited by R&D labs

Campus & Facilities

• Facilities: Advanced research labs, library with extensive chemical databases, computational facilities
• Hostels/Mess: Not applicable for regular students; limited accommodation for scholars
• Other Amenities: Sports facilities, healthcare unit, Wi-Fi campus, transport connectivity
• Clubs/Fests: Seminars, academic workshops, guest lectures hosted regularly

Faculty & Research

• Notable Faculty: Renowned chemists and engineers with publications in international journals
• Research Centres: Catalysis, Polymer Science, Surface Science, Biotechnology
• Patents & Grants: Numerous patents filed, funded by DST, DBT, MoE, and industry grants
• MoUs: Collaborative agreements with IITs, IISc, industry partners

Rankings

• NIRF: Not ranked as NCL is a research lab
• NAAC: Not applicable
• Other Rankings: Recognized among top CSIR labs nationally

Results, Cut-Offs & Seat Matrix

Not applicable as admissions are based on national fellowship exams (CSIR NET/GATE) and affiliated university regulations.

How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Pune International Airport (approx. 15 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Pune Junction Railway Station (approx. 6 km)
• Local Transit: Public buses, auto rickshaws, and taxis available from Pune city

FAQs

1. Q: Does NCL offer undergraduate courses?
   A: No, NCL is a research institution offering primarily PhD and postdoctoral programs in chemical sciences.
2. Q: How to apply for PhD programs at NCL?
   A: Apply through CSIR NET (JRF) or GATE exams and enroll via affiliated universities partnering with NCL.
3. Q: Are scholarships available for research students?
   A: Yes, CSIR-JRF, DST, DBT fellowships, and government reserved category scholarships are available.
4. Q: Does NCL provide hostel facilities?
   A: Limited accommodations are available primarily for research scholars; no large-scale hostels like universities.
5. Q: What research areas does NCL specialize in?
   A: Catalysis, polymers, organic/inorganic chemistry, biochemical sciences, material science.
6. Q: Is NCL recognized by UGC or AICTE?
   A: No, NCL is a CSIR autonomous lab and not a university; affiliated universities manage degree recognition.
7. Q: Can international students join NCL?
   A: Yes, through collaborative programs and university admissions for research.
8. Q: Where can I find official updates and contact NCL?
   A: Visit NCL official website.