The Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) is an initiative by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (KSCSTE). It aims to attract highly skilled Indian researchers working abroad in various biotechnology-related fields to research and academic institutions in Kerala. The fellowship provides an attractive opportunity for advanced research and development in biotechnology within the state.
The program covers areas such as:
- Biomedical Sciences
- Agriculture & Veterinary Science
- Bioengineering & Energy
- Environment & Bioinformatics
- Other Biotechnology-Related Fields
Applications will be screened by an Expert Committee, and shortlisted candidates will be interviewed for final selection.
Benefits
- Monthly Fellowship: ₹1,00,000/- per month
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): ₹18,500/- per month
- Annual Research/Contingency Grant:
- ₹7.5 lakh each for the first & second year
- ₹5 lakh each for the next three years
- Additional Benefits:
- The Host Institution may provide medical benefits, transport allowance, and other perks based on their prevailing norms for employees of equivalent rank.
Eligibility
- Educational Qualification:
- Must possess a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree.
- Minimum 3 years of post-doctoral research experience in premier research laboratories abroad.
- Must have an outstanding research track record (publications, recognitions, etc.).
- Nationality:
- The applicant must be an Indian national working overseas.
- Age Limit:
- Below 45 years of age.
- OBC candidates: Relaxation of 3 years.
- SC/ST/PH candidates: Relaxation of 5 years.
- Host Institution:
- The fellowship must be held at a reputed institution in Kerala.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Notification Release: Applications are invited via advertisement.
- Online Submission: Applicants must submit their applications online when notified.
- Scrutiny & Shortlisting:
- Applications are reviewed by an expert committee nominated by the Commission.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview/presentation (in person or via Skype/tele-mode).
- Final Selection & Agreement:
- Selected candidates must execute an agreement accepting the terms and conditions.
- They must join the Host Institution within 3 months.
- Presentation Before the Programme Advisory Committee (PAC):
- The expert committee evaluates the proposed research work.
- The final decision rests with the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (KSCSTE).
Contact Details
The Scientist-in-Charge
Kerala Biotechnology Commission
Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE)
Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram – 695 004
Phone: (0471) 2548406, 2548254
Email: kbc.kscste@ kerala.gov.in, biotechkerala @gmail.com
Documents Required
- Identity proof of applicant
- Passport-size photographs
- Educational certificates
- Community Certificate (for SC/ST/OBC applicants, if applicable)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Signed “Terms & Conditions” document
- Certificate from the Host Institution
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) programme?
It is a fellowship program designed to attract highly skilled Indian researchers working abroad to research institutions in Kerala.
Q: What is the age limit for applying?
- General candidates: Below 45 years.
- OBC candidates: Relaxation of 3 years.
- SC/ST/PH candidates: Relaxation of 5 years.
Q: What is the monthly remuneration under this fellowship?
- ₹1,00,000/- per month as a fellowship stipend.
- ₹18,500/- per month as House Rent Allowance (HRA).
Q: What is the annual research/contingency grant provided?
- ₹7.5 lakh per year for the first two years.
- ₹5 lakh per year for the subsequent three years.
Q: Is the fellowship taxable?
The remuneration and grants may be subject to applicable tax laws as per Indian regulations.
Q: What other benefits are provided to selected candidates?
- Medical benefits, transport allowance, and other perks may be provided by the Host Institution as per their prevailing norms.
Q: How can an applicant apply for the fellowship?
Candidates must apply online when applications are invited through advertisements.
Q: What is the selection process?
- Applications are reviewed by an expert committee.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview/presentation.
- Final selection is approved by the Programme Advisory Committee (PAC) and KSCSTE.