SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) 2026 – Monthly Fellowship of US $3000

At a glance

About the scheme

The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), a statutory body under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India has launched "SERB International Research Experience (SIRE)". This Program aims to impart high-end research training in frontier areas of Science and Technology, which are of interest to India by providing an opportunity to visit leading institutions/universities across the globe for a period of 02-06 months. The SERB under this program selects candidates in frontier areas of S & T and supports their visit to top institutions around the globe, preferably to the institutions where internationally acclaimed scientists are working.

Benefits

• Monthly fellowship amount equivalent to US $3000.
• One-time Contingency/Preparatory allowance of ₹75,000/- to cover visa fees, airport transfer charges, insurance, etc.
• Overseas Medical Insurance in India and abroad of ₹20,000/-.
• Shortest route economy class airfare from place of work in India to host institute and back.

Who can apply (eligibility)

• The scheme is open to Indian nationals only.
• Applicant should have a Ph.D. degree in the area of Science and Engineering from recognized institutions in India.
• The applicant must hold a permanent position in any Indian research and academic institution.
• Applicants having MBBS/MD degrees and Veterinary doctors are also eligible to apply.
• Applicants having a Teachers Associateship for Research Excellence (TARE) award are also eligible to apply.
• Applicant must submit a letter of support from the overseas host institution along with the application.
• The age limit for applying under this scheme shall be 40 years (as of the date of submission of application). Age relaxation of 5 years will be given to applicants belonging to SC/ST/OBC/physically challenged and women categories.

Who cannot apply

• Applicants who have completed their Ph.D. from abroad are not eligible.
• INSPIRE Faculty / Ramanujan Fellow are not eligible.

Documents required

• Passport size photograph
• Bio-data of applicant
• Bio-data of Overseas Host Scientist
• Consent letter from host
• Research Plan
• Plagiarism undertaking
• Certificate from Applicant
• Endorsement Letter from the Head of Institution
• Age Proof Certificate (Class X mark sheet or Birth certificate)
• Category Certificate (In case of Age Relaxation)

How to apply

1. 1Register on the SERB online portal www.serbonline.in when the call for proposal is made.
2. 2Click the registration link and confirm registration via the email sent to your registered email ID.
3. 3After login, fill all mandatory fields in the Profile Detail section under User Profile, including bio‑data, photo, institute address, etc.
4. 4Provide details like qualification, research experience, fellowships (if any), employment, patent (if any), publications (if any), projects (if any), and research collaborations (if any).
5. 5Enter details of your proposed work such as title (max 500 characters), keywords (max 6), expected output and outcome (max 1500 characters) and tentative dates of visit.
6. 6Upload the Research Plan as a single PDF file not exceeding 10 MB.
7. 7Submit the endorsement letter duly signed by the head of your organization/institute.
8. 8Submit the letter of approval of the research plan from the host institution.
9. 9Submit the application when the call for proposals is open.

Frequently asked questions