Mukhyamantri Nirmaan Majadur suraksha upakaran sahaayata yojana 2026

The Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) aims to bring talented Indian researchers currently working abroad back to Read More... Kerala to contribute to cutting-edge biotechnology research and development. Read less

Details

Are you a skilled Indian researcher in biotechnology working abroad and looking for an opportunity to bring your expertise back home? The Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) program might be exactly what you need. This initiative by the Kerala government is designed to tap into the potential of experienced Indian scientists and encourage them to pursue groundbreaking research within Kerala's academic and research institutions.

What is the K-BiREF Programme?

The Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) is a special fellowship designed to attract highly skilled Indian nationals who are currently working overseas in advanced fields of biotechnology. It offers them a compelling chance to conduct research and development right here in Kerala's reputed research and academic centres. The program covers a wide array of biotechnology areas, including biomedical sciences, agriculture, veterinary science, bioengineering, energy, environment, and bioinformatics.

Who Can Benefit from this Fellowship?

This fellowship is specifically for accomplished Indian researchers who have established a strong track record in biotechnology while working in leading research laboratories abroad. If you're an Indian national making significant contributions to biotechnology research overseas and wish to continue your work in Kerala, this program is for you.

Why is K-BiREF Important?

The K-BiREF programme plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and advancing biotechnology research in Kerala. By attracting experienced researchers back to the state, it helps build a robust scientific ecosystem, encourages knowledge transfer, and positions Kerala as a hub for biotechnological advancements. It provides a supportive environment and significant financial backing for researchers to make impactful contributions.

Objective

The Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) aims to bring talented Indian researchers currently working abroad back to Kerala to contribute to cutting-edge biotechnology research and development.

Benefits

The said material(helmets, footwear, gloves, safety jackets, and masks) will be purchased by the beneficiary at his own expense, as per the rate fixed by CSIDC or Rs. 1,500/- whichever is less.The beneficiary will be responsible for procuring the mentioned materials at their own cost. Once obtained, the Board will provide the reimbursement upon receipt of an application and the corresponding invoice.

Sources and references

Guidelines

Who Can Apply for K-BiREF?

You must hold a Ph.D., M.D., or an equivalent degree.
You need to have at least three years of post-doctoral research experience in esteemed international research laboratories.
Your research in biotechnology should be well-recognised, evidenced by publications and other achievements.
You must be an Indian national currently working overseas.
Your age should be below 45 years.
Age relaxation is available: 3 years for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and 5 years for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Persons with Disabilities (PH) candidates.
The fellowship can be pursued at any reputed research institution located in Kerala.

How to Apply for the Fellowship

Applications for the Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship are typically invited through public advertisements. When a notification is released, candidates are required to submit their applications online. The selection process involves an initial screening by an expert committee. Shortlisted candidates will then undergo an interview, which can be conducted either in person or virtually via platforms like Skype. Successful candidates must sign an agreement accepting the fellowship's terms and conditions and join their designated host institution within three months.

Important Link:

You can find more details and application forms (when available) on the official websites. For instance, information regarding the Host Institution Certificate can be found here: Host Institution Certificate

Documents You Need to Submit

Your identity proof.
Recent passport-sized photographs.
Copies of your educational certificates (Ph.D., M.D., etc.).
Community Certificate: If you belong to SC/ST/OBC categories, you'll need to provide this (if applicable).
Disability Certificate: If you are applying under the disability quota (if applicable).
A duly signed document detailing the "Terms & Conditions" of the fellowship.
A mandatory "Certificate from the Host Institution" confirming their willingness to host you. Download the format here.

FAQ’s

What is the main goal of the Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship?

The primary aim of the K-BiREF programme is to attract highly skilled Indian researchers who are currently working abroad in various fields of biotechnology. It encourages them to return to Kerala and contribute to research and development in reputed academic and research institutions within the state.

What is the age limit for applying to this fellowship?

You need to be under 45 years of age to apply. However, there's an age relaxation of 3 years for candidates from OBC communities and 5 years for candidates belonging to SC, ST, or PH categories.

What financial support can a selected fellow expect?

Selected fellows will receive a monthly remuneration of ₹1,00,000/- along with ₹18,500/- as HRA. Additionally, they will get an annual research/contingency grant of ₹7.5 lakh for the first two years, reducing to ₹5 lakh for each of the following three years.

Can I apply if I have only completed my Master's degree and have post-doctoral experience?

No, the minimum educational qualification required is a Ph.D., M.D., or an equivalent degree, along with at least three years of post-doctoral research experience in premier research laboratories abroad.

Does the fellowship cover any other benefits besides the stipend and research grant?

Yes, the host institution where the fellow is placed may provide additional benefits such as medical facilities and transport allowance. These benefits are offered as per the prevailing norms applicable to their employees of a similar rank, and are funded by the institution itself.

Where can the fellowship research be carried out?

The fellowship is tenable at any well-recognized research institution located in Kerala. You will need a certificate from the host institution confirming their agreement to take you in.

What happens after my application is submitted?

After submission, an expert committee will screen all applications. Those who are shortlisted will be invited for an interview, which can be done in person or remotely. If selected, you'll need to sign an agreement and join the host institution within three months.

Are there any special considerations for candidates from reserved categories?

Yes, candidates from OBC categories receive an age relaxation of 3 years, and candidates from SC/ST/PH categories get an age relaxation of 5 years. Proper documentation like community certificates will be required.

What is the typical duration of the fellowship?

The fellowship provides a research grant for five years, with ₹7.5 lakh per annum for the first two years and ₹5 lakh per annum for the subsequent three years. The monthly remuneration and HRA are also provided during this period.

How do I get the 'Certificate from the Host Institution'?

This certificate is an official document from the research institution in Kerala where you intend to conduct your fellowship. You need to secure their acceptance and have them issue this certificate confirming their willingness to host you. You can find the format for this certificate through the provided link.