The SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) program, launched by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, offers a unique opportunity for Indian researchers to gain international exposure. The program provides financial support for researchers to work with top institutions globally in the fields of Science and Technology, specifically in areas of interest to India.
Objectives:
- To build national capacity in frontier areas of Science and Technology by providing international R&D experience to Indian researchers.
- To strengthen national research by leveraging the expertise gained by SIRE fellows.
- To encourage research in priority areas that are under-explored in India.
Benefits:
- Monthly Fellowship: $3000 USD for each month during the visit. Contingency
- Allowance: ₹75,000 towards visa charges, airport pick-up, and other pre-departure expenses. Overseas Medical
- Insurance: ₹20,000 for covering medical expenses. Airfare: Round-trip economy class airfare from the workplace in India to the foreign host institution.
Note:
- The overseas visit cannot exceed 6 months.
- Normal employees are expected to continue observing their institution’s salary, leave, and pension rules. SERB will not be responsible for any liabilities concerning these.
Eligibility:
- Nationality: Only Indian nationals.
- Academic Requirements: Candidates should possess a Ph.D. in Science and Engineering or related areas.
- Permanent Position: The applicant should be in a permanent position at any Indian research institution or university recognized by the government.
Applicants with MBBS/MD or Veterinary doctors are also welcome.
Teachers Associateship for Research Excellence (TARE) awardees are also eligible.
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Age Limit:
- Applicants must be under 40 years of age at the time of application submission.
- Relaxation: 5 years for applicants from SC/ST/OBC/Physically challenged or women candidates.
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Letter of Support: A letter from the overseas host institution confirming the research plan must be submitted with the application.
Application Process:
- Registration:
- Visit the SERB online portal and create an account.
- Register by providing basic details like bio-data, photo, institution address, and more.
- Application Submission:
- Fill in the application form by entering compulsory fields such as qualification, research experience, publications, and suggested research.
- Upload the research plan and other necessary documents in PDF format (maximum size: 10 MB).
- Endorsement:
- Submit a letter of support from the overseas institution where you plan to conduct your research.
- Obtain an endorsement letter from the head of your institution or department.
- Selection:
- SERB forms a selection committee to review the applications and select fellows based on research merit and the approval of the overseas host institution.
Documents Required:
- Passport-size photograph
- Bio-data (Applicant and Overseas Host Scientist)
- Consent letter from host institution
- Research Plan
- Plagiarism undertaking
- Certificate from Applicant
- Endorsement Letter from Head of Institution
- Age Proof (Class X Marksheet/Birth Certificate)
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: What is the objective of the SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) scheme?
A1: The scheme is to develop the national capability in frontier areas of Science and Technology by giving Indian researchers an opportunity to acquire international R&D experience.
Q2: Can I take the SIRE fellowship two or more times?
A2: Generally, this scheme is given once; however, SERB can be approached with a request for exception.
Q3: Can I apply for the visit of less than a month?
A3: No, you will not be allowed to apply for visits shorter than 2 months and longer than 6 months.
Q4: What if I do not complete all proposed research at the host institution?
A4: If he/she does not comply with the research plan or is partially absent at the mentoring institution, this fellowship will be withdrawn.
Q5: Is there any upper age limit for applicants?
A5: The candidate should not be above 40 years, with a relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/OBC/physically handicapped or women candidates.
Q6: I have a live SERB project under CRG/SRG. Can I apply for this fellowship?
A6: Yes, one can still apply to SIRE although the applicant has a live SERB project.