Back-To-Lab Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme: Eligibility and How to Apply

The Back-To-Lab Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme is designed to support women scientists who have experienced a career break, facilitating their return to scientific research. This initiative is provided by the Science and Technology Department of Kerala. It plays a crucial role in addressing the under-representation of women in higher academics and professions in the field of Science.

Back-To-Lab Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme: Eligibility and How to Apply: At a Glance

Award and Benefits

The Back-To-Lab Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme offers a monthly fellowship of ₹45,000/- along with a 10% House Rent Allowance (HRA). Additionally, fellows receive an annual contingency grant of ₹75,000/-. The duration of the fellowship is limited to a maximum of 2 years.

Eligibility Checklist

• Are you a woman candidate? Yes
• Are you a permanent resident of Kerala? Yes
• Are you currently unemployed and on a career break? Yes
• Are you not receiving any emoluments from any source? Yes
• Have you previously availed of KSCSTE Back-to-Lab Fellowship? No
• Are you 40 years of age or below (relaxable for OBC and SC/ST)? Yes
• Do you hold a Ph.D. in Science or Engineering? Yes
• Did you score a minimum of 60% marks in post-graduation? Yes
• Is your chosen Research Centre different from your Ph.D. Research Centre? Yes
• Have you published at least one research paper in a SCI Journal or secured a patent? Yes
• Have you previously availed of one Post-Doctoral Fellowship from KSCSTE or elsewhere? No

Who Is Not Eligible

Candidates who have previously availed of KSCSTE Back-to-Lab Fellowship for their PhD programme or those who have already received one Post-Doctoral Fellowship from KSCSTE or elsewhere are not eligible to apply. Additionally, Post-Doctoral Fellows receiving financial assistance from other funding agencies or sources are also ineligible.

Documents Required

• Application form
• Proof of permanent residency in Kerala
• Ph.D. certificate
• Research proposal
• Consent from Scientist Mentor
• Endorsement from Head of Institution

How to Apply

Online

1. Eligible applicants may apply online at the KSCSTE web portal.
2. Preliminary scrutiny of the application will be conducted for basic eligibility verification.
3. Eligible applications will undergo peer review by five subject experts.
4. Proposals that pass peer review will be invited for presentation before the Research Advisory Committee.
5. Upon favorable recommendation, the proposal will be considered for funding.

Renewal, Selection and Disbursement

As per official notification, the selection of candidates will be based on merit through a peer review process. The fellowship is not renewable, and the disbursement of funds will be managed by the KSCSTE.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for the Back-To-Lab Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme?

Only unemployed women candidates who are permanent residents of Kerala and have a Ph.D. in Science or Engineering can apply.

2. What is the duration of the fellowship?

The fellowship is awarded for a maximum duration of 2 years.

3. How much financial assistance is provided?

The fellowship provides ₹45,000/- per month along with a 10% HRA and an annual contingency grant of ₹75,000/-.

4. Is there an age limit for applicants?

Yes, the age limit is 40 years, with relaxations for OBC and SC/ST candidates.

5. Can I apply if I have previously received a Post-Doctoral Fellowship?

No, candidates who have previously availed of a Post-Doctoral Fellowship from KSCSTE or elsewhere are not eligible.

6. How do I apply for the fellowship?

Eligible applicants can apply online through the KSCSTE web portal.

मुख्य जानकारी हिंदी में

• यह फेलोशिप कार्यक्रम महिलाओं के लिए है जो केरला की स्थायी निवासी हैं।
• फेलोशिप की अवधि अधिकतम 2 वर्ष है।
• हर महीने ₹45,000/- और वार्षिक ₹75,000/- की अनुदान राशि मिलेगी।
• आवेदन ऑनलाइन किया जा सकता है।
• आवेदिका की आयु 40 वर्ष से अधिक नहीं होनी चाहिए।