The scheme “Women Involvement in Science and Engineering Research (WISER)” aims to build scientific capacity, retain and promote women researchers in India & Germany by utilising complementary expertise in science, technology, innovation and research partnerships. This scheme is designed for women researchers holding a regular/long-term research position in academia/research institute/industry in India or Germany.
Objectives
- Increase the participation and career progression of women researchers in STEM.
- Encourage gender equity and inclusion in science and technology research.
- Promote international networking and long-term research collaborations.
- Enhance existing research projects by adding new research components.
- Encourage women to take leadership roles in Indo-German research projects.
Tenure
- Up to 3 years or until the completion of the ongoing project, whichever is earlier.
- Covers one short-stay visit per year for up to one month.
Benefits
Indian Awardees
- Travel support (visa fee + insurance): ₹1 lakh.
- Project cost: ₹12 lakhs per year (includes research staff, consumables, and contingency).
- Per diem in Germany: €2300/month.
German Awardees
- Travel support (visa fee + insurance): €1500.
- Project cost: €14,500 per year (includes consumables and contingency).
- Per diem in India: €2300/month.
Eligibility
- Must be a woman researcher working in India or Germany.
- Must hold a regular/long-term position in academic, research, or industrial research institutions.
- Open to all STEM disciplines.
- No age limit (preference for early/mid-career researchers).
Additional Conditions
- The applicant must define her role in the project and explain how it adds value to the research in the host country.
- The applicant is responsible for securing an endorsement/consent letter from the host institution.
- A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the applicant’s current institution is required.
- The awardee must commence the visit within 12 months of receiving the award.
- The awardee must acknowledge IGSTC in all publications, reports, and conference presentations related to the project.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Visit the IGSTC official website and create an account.
- New users: Click “Create an Account” and fill in the required details.
- Existing users: Log in using email ID and password.
- Complete the application form and upload required documents.
- Submit the application for evaluation.
Evaluation Criteria
- Applicant’s credentials (academic and research background).
- Relevance to STEM research and its impact.
- Feasibility and quality of the research plan.
- Scope and potential future impact of the project.
Contact Information
Phone: +91-011-26543500
Email: [email protected]
Mailing Address:
Indo-German Science & Technology Centre
Ground Floor, Block – II, Technology Bhavan,
New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi – 110016, India
Documents Required
- Passport-size Photograph
- Educational Certificates
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the home institution
- Endorsement letter from the host institution
- Details of proposed work
- List of publications
- List of patents (filed/granted)
- Details of notable achievements
- Any other supporting document
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, but early/mid-career researchers are given preference. - Q: What is the tenure of the grant?
The grant is awarded for up to 3 years or until the completion of the project. - Q: Can the tenure be extended?
No, tenure cannot be extended beyond the project duration. - Q: What support does WISER provide?
It covers travel expenses, research costs, and a per diem allowance for research stays in India or Germany. - Q: How can I find a host institute?
Applicants must identify a suitable host institution and secure an endorsement letter from them. - Q: Is it necessary for the host to be a woman?
No, the host can be male or female. - Q: How to apply for WISER?
Eligible candidates must apply online through the IGSTC portal. - Q: What is the deadline for applications?
Applications are accepted throughout the year. - Q: What formalities are required after completing the WISER grant?
Awardees must submit project reports and acknowledge IGSTC in all publications.