Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship

Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF)

The Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) is a pioneering initiative aimed at attracting highly skilled Indian researchers who have gained extensive experience abroad in the field of biotechnology. This scheme encourages these professionals to return to Kerala to contribute to research and academic institutions, enhancing the state’s capabilities in diverse areas of biotechnology.

Overview of the Scheme

The Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) is designed specifically for Indian nationals who have excelled in their research careers overseas. This fellowship focuses on various key sectors within biotechnology, including:

• Biomedical Sciences
• Agriculture
• Veterinary Science
• Bioengineering
• Energy
• Environment
• Bioinformatics
• Other related fields

This program provides an excellent opportunity for these researchers to engage in innovative research and development activities in Kerala. Applications will undergo a thorough evaluation by an Expert Committee, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates.

Benefits of the Fellowship

The fellowship offers numerous advantages to the selected candidates:

• A monthly stipend of ₹1,00,000 along with an HRA of ₹18,500.
• An annual research or contingency grant amounting to ₹7.5 lakh for the first two years and ₹5 lakh for each of the subsequent three years.
• Host institutions may also offer additional benefits, including medical coverage, transport allowances, and other perks consistent with their employment policies.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the K-BiREF, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Possess a Ph.D., M.D., or an equivalent degree.
• Have a minimum of three years of post-doctoral research experience in prestigious laboratories abroad, demonstrating a strong research background in biotechnology-related domains with notable publications and recognition.
• Be an Indian national currently residing overseas and aged below 45 years (age relaxation of 3 years for OBC candidates and 5 years for SC/ST/PH candidates).
• The fellowship can be pursued at any esteemed institution within Kerala.

Application Procedure

Interested candidates can follow the steps below to apply for the Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship:

• Online Application: Applications will be accepted through an official advertisement and must be submitted online during the notification period.
• Application Screening: An expert committee will review the applications. Candidates who are shortlisted will be required to attend an interview or presentation, which may take place in person or via video conferencing platforms like Skype.
• Agreement Execution: Selected candidates must sign an agreement to accept the fellowship’s terms and conditions and are required to join the host institution within three months.
• Presentation to the Programme Advisory Committee (PAC): The expert committee will evaluate the proposed research content and objectives. The final decision will be made by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) based on the expert committee’s recommendations.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, candidates can reach out to:

The Scientist-in-charge
Kerala Biotechnology Commission
Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE)
Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram – 695 004

Telephone: (0471) 2548406, 2548254
Email: [email protected], [email protected]

For more details, please visit the official website: myScheme.gov.in