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The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) has introduced the SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) program to Read More... provide advanced research training to Indian scientists abroad. Read less
Details
Are you a budding scientist or researcher looking to gain international exposure? The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) has a fantastic opportunity for you! Through its SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) program, you can get top-notch research training in cutting-edge science and technology areas at leading global institutions.
What Is This Scheme?
The SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) program is designed to give Indian scientists and researchers a chance to work and train at some of the best research centres and universities worldwide. This program focuses on frontier areas of Science and Technology that are crucial for India's development. Selected candidates can spend between 2 to 6 months abroad, learning from internationally renowned experts.
Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?
This scheme is specifically for Indian nationals who are deeply involved in research and academic pursuits in India. If you hold a PhD in Science and Engineering, work in a permanent position at an Indian research or academic institution, or are an MBBS/MD or veterinary doctor, you could be eligible. The program aims to build national capacity by empowering researchers with global experience.
Why This Scheme Is Important
The core idea behind SIRE is to enhance India's capabilities in advanced scientific fields. By sending researchers abroad, the program helps them gain invaluable international research and development experience. This expertise can then be brought back to India to strengthen existing national programs or kickstart new initiatives in areas that need more exploration within our country.
Objective
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Sources and references
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be an Indian citizen.
- You should have completed your PhD in Science and Engineering from an Indian institution.
- You must hold a permanent position in any Indian research or academic institution.
- MBBS/MD degree holders and veterinary doctors are also welcome to apply.
- Applicants who have received a Teachers Associateship for Research Excellence (TARE) award are eligible.
- You need to submit a letter of support from your intended overseas host institution.
- The age limit is 40 years as of the application deadline. A relaxation of 5 years is offered to candidates from SC/ST/OBC, physically challenged, and women categories.
How To Apply
Applications for the SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) Program should be submitted online through the official SERB portal: www.serbonline.in. Ensure you apply when a call for proposals is announced.
Documents Required
- Passport-sized photograph
- Applicant's Bio-data
- Bio-data of the Overseas Host Scientist
- Consent letter from the host institution
- Detailed Research Plan
- Plagiarism undertaking
- Certificate from the Applicant
- Endorsement Letter from the Head of your Institution
- Age Proof Certificate (e.g., Class X mark sheet or Birth Certificate)
- Category Certificate (if claiming age relaxation for SC/ST/OBC)
FAQ’s
What is the age limit to apply for the SIRE program?
The general age limit for applicants is 40 years. However, if you belong to SC/ST/OBC categories, are physically challenged, or are a woman, you can get a 5-year age relaxation, provided you submit valid proof of your category.
Can I apply for the SIRE fellowship if I have an ongoing SERB project?
Yes, having an ongoing SERB project under CRG/SRG does not prevent you from applying for the SIRE fellowship.
Is it possible to apply for a visit of less than two months?
No, the program requires your visit abroad to be for a minimum of 02 months and a maximum of 6 months.
What if I provide false information or violate the terms of the fellowship?
If any incorrect or misleading information is found, or if there's a breach of the terms and conditions, the fellowship can be cancelled at any stage. SERB reserves the right to take action, potentially including recovering the full amount spent on the fellow, with interest, in consultation with your parent organization.
Who is implementing this scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), which is a statutory body under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.
Will SERB cover flight cancellation or extra baggage charges?
No, SERB will not cover any costs related to flight cancellations, rescheduling, or extra baggage charges.
Can I use the SIRE fellowship to visit other institutions in the same country?
No, the SIRE fellowship is strictly for the research purpose and the designated host institution it was sanctioned for. You cannot use it to visit other nearby institutions.
What is the main goal of the SIRE program?
The primary aim is to offer advanced research training in key Science and Technology areas to Indian researchers. This is achieved by giving them the opportunity to visit and work at top global institutions for a period of 2 to 6 months.
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 program.
Can I apply for this fellowship more than once in my career?
No, an applicant is eligible to receive this fellowship only once in their lifetime.
Does having completed my PhD from abroad make me ineligible?
Yes, the scheme is open only to candidates who have completed their PhD from institutions within India.
If I've received SERB's ITS support recently, can I still apply for SIRE?
Yes, you are eligible to apply for SIRE even if you have availed of ITS support from SERB in the current or previous year.
Does a tenure-track faculty position count as permanent for SIRE eligibility?
Yes, a tenure-track faculty position is considered permanent, provided your institution officially endorses it as such.
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