IBRS (Industry Linked Biotechnology Research Scheme) is initiated by Kerala Biotechnology Commission (KBC) as a part of Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) in Kerala. Its said to encourage academic+industry interface in research projects on development of commercial biotechnology based products/processes/service. That scheme funds research in marine biotechnology, agriculture, health and environment among others.
Objectives of the Scheme
- Promote academia-industry collaboration in biotechnology research.
- Encourage commercialization of biotechnology-based products, processes, or services.
- Support research in critical sectors like marine biology, agriculture, health, and environmental biotechnology.
- Enhance R&D capabilities in Kerala by involving industrial partners.
Benefits of the Scheme
Financial Assistance
- ₹40 Lakhs (excluding overhead cost and industry share) for a 3-year research project.
- Additional 25% funding from the industry partner is required.
- Host institutions are eligible for overhead expenses @10% (up to ₹2 Lakhs).
Key Features
- Encourages innovation-driven biotechnology research in collaboration with industry.
- Focuses on commercialization rather than just academic research.
- Industry partners must contribute 25% of the project cost, ensuring shared investment.
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
- Scientists and technologists from R&D centers, academic institutions, and research organizations engaged in biotechnology research.
- Research should be collaborative with an industry partner, willing to contribute 25% of the allocated funds.
Eligible Research Domains
The research should focus on biotechnology applications in:
- Marine Biotechnology
- Agriculture & Crop Improvement
- Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
- Environmental Biotechnology & Sustainability
Application Process
Mode of Application: Online
- Advertisement Release: KBC will issue a public advertisement inviting project proposals.
- Proposal Submission: The Principal Investigator (PI) submits a proposal through the online portal, endorsed by the Head of Institution (HoI).
- Acknowledgment & Reference Number: Upon submission, the applicant receives a reference number and submission confirmation.
- Evaluation by Experts:
- The KSCSTE Expert Committee will evaluate the proposal.
- Five referees will review the project proposal.
- If three out of five referees approve, the PI may be called for a presentation.
- Final Selection:
- Based on referee reviews and Expert Committee recommendations, KSCSTE makes the final decision.
- The selected proposals receive financial assistance and official sanctioning.
Documents Required
- Identity Proof (Aadhar card/PAN card/Voter ID, etc.)
- Passport-size Photograph
- Educational Certificates (Ph.D./M.Tech/M.Sc. degrees, etc.)
- Technical Report/Research Proposal (detailed description of project objectives, methodology, and expected outcome)
- Industry Collaboration Endorsement Letter (signed by Industry Partner & Head of Organization)
- Head of Institution (HoI) Endorsement Letter (Approval from the research institution/university)
- Project Budget Breakdown (detailed allocation of funds with 25% industry contribution mentioned)
- Disability Certificate (if applicable)
- Any Additional Supporting Documents (if required by KBC/KSCSTE)
Exclusions
- Projects without an industry partner or without the required 25% industry funding.
- Research proposals that lack commercial application.
- Applications that do not meet eligibility criteria or lack required endorsements.
Contact Information
Kerala Biotechnology Commission (KBC)
Kerala State Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (KSCSTE)
Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram – 695 004
Telephone: (0471) 2548254, 2548406
Email: kbc.kscste @kerala.gov.in
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Industry Linked Biotechnology Research Scheme (IBRS)?
The IBRS is a research funding initiative by the Kerala Biotechnology Commission (KBC) that supports biotechnology research projects in collaboration with industry partners.
2. Who implements this scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Kerala Biotechnology Commission (KBC) under the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (KSCSTE).
3. Who is eligible to apply?
- Scientists, researchers, and technologists from R&D centers, academic institutions, and research organizations.
- The project must be in collaboration with an industry partner willing to contribute 25% of the allocated funds.
4. How much financial assistance is provided?
- ₹40 Lakhs for a 3-year research project.
- Host institutions receive an overhead expense grant of ₹2 Lakhs.
- The industry partner must contribute 25% of the allocated funds.
5. What are the eligible research areas?
Research must focus on biotechnology applications in:
- Marine biotechnology
- Agriculture & crop improvement
- Healthcare & pharmaceuticals
- Environmental biotechnology
6. How long is the funding provided?
- The scheme supports projects for 3 years.
7. How can an applicant apply?
- Applications must be submitted online after KBC issues an official call for proposals.
8. What documents are required for application?
Applicants need to submit:
- Identity proof & photographs
- Educational certificates
- Research proposal & technical report
- Industry collaboration & HoI endorsements
- Budget details & fund utilization plan
9. Where can I get more information?
For detailed guidelines and application procedures, visit the Kerala Biotechnology Commission (KBC) website or contact:
(0471) 2548254, 2548406
kbc.kscste@ kerala.gov.in
Sources & References
- Kerala State Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (KSCSTE)
- Kerala Biotechnology Commission (KBC)
For official guidelines and application details, visit the KBC/KSCSTE website or contact the Scientist-in-Charge at KSCSTE.