Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BIREF) 2026 – ₹1,00,000 Monthly Remuneration for Returning Researchers
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Quick answer
The Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BIREF) is a state-level fellowship by the Science and Technology Department, Kerala, to attract Indian researchers working abroad to research and academic institutions in Kerala. Selected fellows receive a monthly remuneration of ₹1,00,000 with ₹18,500 as HRA, along with annual research grants. Applications are invited through advertisement and submitted online when notified.
At a glance
| Main benefit | Monthly remuneration of ₹1,00,000 and ₹18,500 HRA, plus annual research grants up to ₹7.5 lakh |
| Ministry / department | Science and Technology Department |
| Level | State Government (Kerala) |
| Age | Up to 45 years |
| Application mode | Online |
About the scheme
The programme Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BiREF) is designed to bring well-trained and highly skilled Indian researchers with a strong track record back to Kerala from abroad. It supports research and development in frontier biotechnology areas such as biomedical sciences, agriculture, veterinary science, bioengineering, energy, environment, and bioinformatics. Applications are screened by an Expert Committee, and shortlisted candidates are interviewed.
Benefits
- Monthly remuneration of ₹1,00,000 and ₹18,500 as HRA per month.
- Annual research/contingency grant of ₹7.5 lakh each for the first and second year and ₹5 lakh each for the subsequent 3 years.
- Host Institution may provide medical benefits, transport allowance, and other benefits as per prevailing norms applicable to employees of equivalent rank out of its own resources or funds.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- Applicant should possess a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree and at least three years of post-doctoral research experience in premier research laboratories abroad with an outstanding track record in biotechnology-related areas.
- Only Indian nationals working overseas below 45 years of age are eligible; age relaxation of 3 years for OBC and 5 years for SC/ST/PH candidates.
- Fellowship is tenable at any reputed institution in Kerala.
Documents required
- Identity proof of applicant
- Passport size photographs
- Educational certificates
- Community Certificate for SC/ST/OBC applicants (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Terms & Conditions, duly signed
- Certificate from the Host Institution
How to apply
- 1Wait for the advertisement inviting applications for the Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship (K-BIREF).
- 2Submit the application online through the official portal when notified by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE).
- 3Applications will be screened by an expert committee nominated by the Commission.
- 4Shortlisted candidates must appear for an interview or presentation in person or through Skype or similar tele-mode.
- 5Selected candidates must execute an agreement accepting the terms and conditions of the Award.
- 6Selected candidates must join the Host Institution within three months of selection.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Kerala Biotechnology Re-Entry Fellowship programme?+
It is a fellowship programme to attract well-trained and highly skilled Indian researchers working abroad in frontier areas of biotechnology to research and academic institutions in Kerala.
Who is eligible to get the benefits under the programme?+
Only Indian nationals working overseas are eligible to apply.
What is the minimum educational qualification required to apply?+
The applicant should possess a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree and at least three years of post-doctoral research experience in premier research laboratories abroad.
What is the age criterion to apply?+
Candidates should be below 45 years of age, with relaxation of 3 years for OBC and 5 years for SC/ST/PH candidates.
What is the monthly remuneration given to a fellow?+
Monthly remuneration of ₹1,00,000 and ₹18,500 as HRA per month.
What is the annual research or contingency grant given under the programme?+
₹7.5 lakh each for the first and second year and ₹5 lakh each for the subsequent 3 years.
Is the fellowship taxable?+
Yes, the fellowship is taxable under Government of India rules.
What are the other benefits provided to eligible candidates?+
Host Institution may provide medical benefits, transport allowance, and other benefits as per prevailing norms from its own resources or funds.
How can an applicant apply for the programme?+
Applications are invited through advertisement and submitted online when notified.
What is the procedure for selection of an applicant?+
Applications are screened by an expert committee. Shortlisted candidates appear for an interview or presentation in person or through tele-mode. Selected candidates must execute an agreement and join the Host Institution within three months.
What is the last date to apply?+
not specified
What is the official portal to apply?+
not specified
NaukriZila is not a government website. Apply only on the official portal; never pay anyone to apply for a government scheme. Source: myScheme (Government of India)