Vocational Education and Training Loan Scheme 2026
The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) offers the SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) to provide advanced Read More... research training in science and technology fields abroad. Read less
Details
Are you an Indian researcher looking to gain international experience in cutting-edge science and technology? The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) has launched the SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) program just for you.
What Is This Scheme?
The SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) is a special initiative by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), a statutory body under the Department of Science and Technology. Its main goal is to give talented Indian researchers the chance to get top-notch training in advanced science and technology areas. This is done by allowing them to visit and work at leading research institutions and universities across the globe for a period of 2 to 6 months.
Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?
This scheme is designed for Indian nationals who have completed their PhD in science and engineering from recognized Indian institutions. It's for those holding permanent positions in Indian research or academic institutions, including individuals with MBBS/MD degrees and veterinary doctors. The program also welcomes applicants with a Teachers Associateship for Research Excellence (TARE) award.
Why This Scheme Is Important
SIRE plays a crucial role in building India's capacity in frontier science and technology fields. By facilitating international research experience, it helps bring back new knowledge and skills to strengthen national programs. The scheme also encourages research in areas that are less explored in India, fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery.
Objective
Benefits
Sources and references
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be an Indian national.
- You need to have a PhD in Science and Engineering from a recognized Indian institution.
- You must hold a permanent position in any Indian research or academic institution.
- Candidates with MBBS/MD degrees and veterinary doctors are also welcome to apply.
- If you have received a Teachers Associateship for Research Excellence (TARE) award, you are eligible.
- A letter of support from the overseas host institution is mandatory with your application.
- The age limit is 40 years as of the application submission date. Applicants from SC/ST/OBC, physically challenged, and women categories get a 5-year age relaxation.
How To Apply
Applications for the SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) Program should be submitted online through the official SERB portal when a call for proposals is announced. The application portal is:
Documents Required
- Passport-sized photograph
- Applicant's Biodata
- Biodata of the Overseas Host Scientist
- Consent letter from the host institution
- Research Plan
- Plagiarism undertaking
- Certificate from the Applicant
- Endorsement Letter from the Head of your Institution
- Age Proof Certificate (like Class X marksheet or Birth Certificate)
- Category Certificate (if claiming age relaxation)
FAQ’s
What is the main goal of the SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) program?
The program aims to provide advanced research training in key science and technology areas that are important for India. It allows selected researchers to spend 2 to 6 months at leading global institutions.
Who is implementing this scheme?
The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) under the Government of India is implementing this scheme.
If I'm 41 years old, can I still apply for the SIRE fellowship?
The general age limit is 40 years. However, candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC categories, and women candidates are eligible for a 5-year age relaxation, provided they submit valid proof of their category.
Can I use the SIRE fellowship for a visit shorter than 2 months?
No, the duration of your proposed visit abroad must be between 2 and 6 months. Shorter visits are not permitted under this scheme.
What happens if I provide false or misleading information or break the scheme's terms?
If any incorrect or misleading information is provided, or if there's a breach of terms, the fellowship will be cancelled at any stage. SERB reserves the right to take action, which may include requiring the refund of all expenses incurred, along with interest, in consultation with your parent organization.
Can I get an SIRE fellowship more than once in my career?
No, each applicant is eligible to receive this fellowship only once in their lifetime.
Does the SIRE fellowship cover flight cancellation or extra baggage costs?
No, SERB will not cover any charges related to flight cancellation, rescheduling, or excess baggage.
Am I eligible if I have an active SERB project (CRG/SRG) running?
Yes, if you have an ongoing SERB project under CRG/SRG, you are still eligible to apply for the SIRE program.
Can I visit other institutions near my main host institution during my SIRE fellowship?
No, the SIRE fellowship is strictly for the purpose for which it was sanctioned. You should only utilize it for your visit to the approved overseas host institution.
Are INSPIRE Faculty or Ramanujan Fellows eligible to apply for SIRE?
No, INSPIRE Faculty and Ramanujan Fellows are not eligible to apply under the SIRE scheme.
What are the objectives of the SIRE program?
The objectives are: to build national expertise in frontier science and technology through international R&D experience, to use the gained knowledge to strengthen national programs, and to promote research in areas that need more exploration within India.
Can I apply if I completed my PhD from abroad?
No, only candidates who have completed their PhD from institutions in India are eligible to apply for this scheme.
Does a tenure-track faculty position count as a permanent position for eligibility?
Yes, a tenure-track faculty position is considered permanent, provided your institution officially endorses it as such.
Have you received SERB's ITS support recently? Am I still eligible?
Yes, if you have previously availed of SERB's ITS support this year or last year, you are still eligible to apply for the SIRE program.
Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Sign in with Google