The Vattikuti Foundation Robotic Surgery Fellowship is a prestigious, skill-building opportunity designed for early-career surgeons worldwide. For the 2025–2026 cycle, this fellowship offers intensive hands-on training in robotic surgical procedures, combined with research mentorship and international collaboration. By engaging with India’s premier robotic surgery centers and experienced mentors, fellows will acquire practical expertise and academic exposure essential for excelling in minimally invasive surgical practices. This article offers a complete guide on how to apply, what to prepare, and how this opportunity can shape your future career in surgery.
Advance your surgical career with the Vattikuti Foundation Robotic Surgery Fellowship 2025. Gain hands-on training in cutting-edge robotic procedures, mentorship from global experts, and research exposure through VCQI. This prestigious, fully supported program is your gateway to leadership in minimally invasive surgery. Apply now to shape the future of surgical innovation.
About the Program
Fellowship Overview
Official Title: Vattikuti Foundation Robotic Surgery Fellowship 2025–2026
Application Status: Open until July 31, 2025
Duration: 12 months (full-time)
Training Format: In-person training at Indian institutions; international observational visits possible
Focus Areas: Urologic Oncology, Gynecologic Oncology, GI Surgery, Bariatric Surgery, Head and Neck Robotic Oncology
Key Component: Participation in collaborative clinical research via the VCQI database
Eligibility Criteria
Education and Experience
Applicants must be in the final year of their surgical training or within 5 to 10 years of completing an advanced specialty degree such as MCh or equivalent.
Preference will be given to candidates with prior exposure to robotic surgery or those who have completed online modules from Intuitive Surgical.
Academic Discipline
Only candidates from surgical specialties involved in robotic or minimally invasive procedures are eligible.
Strong preference for disciplines such as urology, gynecology, gastrointestinal surgery, and oncology.
Other Requirements
Applicants must be proficient in English.
There are no restrictions on nationality; however, most placements are in India.
Willingness to relocate within India is essential.
All submissions must be original and free from plagiarism.
Application Process
Step-by-Step Instructions
Access the Application: Visit the official fellowship portal.
Select Preferences: Choose up to two preferred fellowship postings based on availability and interest.
Prepare Documentation: Ensure all documents are clearly labelled, in PDF format, and have your full name and email ID on each page.
Submit by Deadline: Finalize and submit your application before July 31, 2025.
Availability: Be prepared to join the assigned center within 30 days of selection.
Required Documents
Mandatory Submissions
Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include a photograph, academic credentials, surgical training history, PubMed-listed publications, and awards.
Statement of Purpose (SOP): A minimum of 300 words highlighting career goals, achievements, and future vision post-fellowship.
Letters of Recommendation: Minimum three letters, each unique and on institutional letterhead.
Transcripts: Academic degrees, training certificates, and medical school records.
Professional Accomplishments: Evidence of presentations, research contributions, or relevant clinical achievements.
Contact Sheet: Full address, current professional affiliation, phone number, and email.
Optional Enhancements
Robotic Training Certification: If available, include certificates from simulation centers or Intuitive Surgical.
Eligible Fields / Disciplines
The fellowship welcomes applications from candidates with core or interdisciplinary backgrounds in:
Urologic Oncology
Gynecologic Oncology
Gastrointestinal and Bariatric Surgery
Head & Neck Robotic Surgery
Applicants with interdisciplinary exposure related to robotic procedures are encouraged to apply.
Financial Support & Benefits
Monetary Support
Stipend: INR 90,000 per month for the entire fellowship duration.
Completion Grant: INR 120,000 upon successful fellowship completion.
Conference Grant: Full travel and accommodation support for presenting at one international academic conference.
Additional Benefits
Academic Awards: Eligibility for VCQI and K.S. Video Awards.
Research Exposure: Access to VCQI dataset and publications.
Networking: Interaction with top robotic surgeons through workshops, webinars, and center visits.
Housing/Relocation: Must be arranged independently by the fellow.
Selection Process
Multi-Stage Evaluation
Initial Screening: Internal verification of eligibility and document completeness.
External Review: Peer assessment by robotic surgery experts across India and abroad.
Interview & Shortlisting: Assessment of motivation, clinical competence, and research aptitude.
Final Selection: Offer letters issued; candidates must confirm and relocate within one month.
Evaluation Metrics
Academic excellence
Professional motivation
Leadership and communication skills
Research credentials
Diversity and relevance of clinical background
Important Dates (Tentative)
Applications Open: June 20, 2025
Deadline: July 31, 2025
Interview Period: August to early September 2025
Final Results: Announced early September 2025
Fellowship Start Date: Expected by September 15, 2025
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Tailor Your SOP: Make your narrative specific to your surgical goals and mention how the fellowship aligns with your long-term vision.
Demonstrate Research Capability: Highlight any published work, abstracts, or ongoing projects.
Strong Referees Matter: Choose recommenders who can provide specific, credible insight into your clinical and research strengths.
Avoid Generic Content: Personalize all submissions and proofread for originality.
Apply Early: This allows time to correct any submission errors.
Contact Details
Official Website: https://vattikutifoundation.com/vfrsi-home/fellowship-application/
General Inquiries: [email protected] / [email protected]
Institutional Collaborations: [email protected]
Conclusion
The Vattikuti Foundation Fellowship represents a transformative opportunity for young surgeons passionate about mastering robotic-assisted surgical techniques. The fellowship combines structured clinical training, research involvement, and global exposure—all under the guidance of leading experts. Fellows not only build technical proficiency but also gain academic and leadership skills that can elevate their global surgical careers.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Vattikuti Foundation Robotic Surgery Fellowship |
| Host Country | India (with international observation visits) |
| Funded By | Vattikuti Foundation |
| Duration | 12 months |
| Study Mode | Full-time |
| Eligibility | Surgeons or trainees within 5–10 years post-specialty degree |
| Financial Support | INR 90,000/month stipend, INR 120,000 completion grant, travel allowance |
| Fields of Study | Robotic Oncology disciplines |
| Deadline | 07/31/2025 |
| Official Website | Apply Here |
References
Vattikuti Foundation Fellowship Application: https://vattikutifoundation.com/vfrsi-home/fellowship-application/
Vattikuti Robotic Surgery Program Overview: https://vattikutifoundation.com/social-empowerment/the-vattikuti-fellowship/
FAQs
It is a fully funded program for young surgeons to receive advanced training in robotic surgery across leading Indian institutions.
Surgeons within 5–10 years post-specialty degree or final-year trainees from relevant surgical fields are eligible.
Yes, applicants from any country may apply, but most placements are within Indian institutions.
The program focuses on robotic oncology—urology, gynecology, GI surgery, bariatrics, and head-neck specializations.
Selection involves application review, peer evaluation, interviews, and final shortlisting based on academic merit and motivation.
