ICMR-National Institute of Virology ICMR- National Institute of Virology (NIV), is one of the major Institutes of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). It was established at Pune, Maharashtra State in 1952 as Virus Research Centre (VRC) under the auspices of the ICMR and the Rockefeller Foundation (RF), USA. It was an outcome of the global programme of the RF for investigating the Arthropod Borne viruses. Since the studies on arboviruses and their arthropod vectors involve most of the basic principles and techniques of general virology, entomology and zoology, these viruses were also considered to be an ideal group to begin with for intensive training and research in virology in our country. The RF withdrew its support in 1967 and since then the Institute is entirely funded by the ICMR. By the 70s the Institute had developed deep scientific roots, nurtured through the sustained efforts of many dedicated workers. With the expertise in virological training and research and emphasis on self-reliance, the centre was well prepared to undertake full responsibility as a National Institute. On the recommendation of the SAC, the VRC acquired its status of national importance and was renamed as National Institute of Virology (NIV) in 1978. M.Sc. Virology Program A unique and first of its kind in the country, M.Sc. Virology two years specialization postgraduate degree course was initiated in 2005 at ICMR-NIV and is conducted in affiliation with the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), Pune. The concerned memorandum of understanding (MOU) is renewed every 5 years. M.Sc. Virology is a credit system based course and is focused, need oriented and flexible for cultivating and developing adequately trained human resource in Virology for academia, industry and health sectors. Eligibility Criteria The SPPU conducts pan India level Online Entrance Examination (OEE) in June every year for admission of students to M.Sc. Virology program in order of merit. Graduates/Post-graduates from Microbiology, Biotechnology, Medicine (MBBS), Veterinary Science (B.V.Sc., M.V.Sc.), Botany, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Zoology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Life Sciences, Pharmacy (B.Pharm., M.Pharm.), B.Tech. / M.Tech. Engineering (Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Bioinformatics), Medical Laboratory Technology are eligible to appear for OEE conducted for admission to this program. Application Last Date The last date for applications for Virology at @ICMR_NIV for the academic year 2026-27 has been extended to 25.05.2026 (11:59 pm). Online Application Click Here to apply for M.Sc. Virology in ICMR-NIV Pune. Source: M.Sc. Virology in ICMR-NIV Pune