SERB International Research Experience
US$3,000/month research visit abroad · Indian academics with PhD · 2–6 months
SERB SIRE supports Indian researchers to visit top universities and research institutions abroad for 2 to 6 months to gain advanced research training in frontier science and technology areas. Selected fellows receive US,000 per month plus economy class airfare, medical insurance, and a one-time contingency grant of ₹75,000. Apply online through serbonline.in when a call for proposals is open.
About This Scheme
SERB SIRE supports Indian researchers to visit top universities and research institutions abroad for 2 to 6 months to gain advanced research training in frontier science and technology areas. Selected fellows receive US,000 per month plus economy class airfare, medical insurance, and a one-time contingency grant of ₹75,000. Apply online through serbonline.in when a call for proposals is open.
Full official description
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.
Objectives:
- To build national capacity in frontier areas of Science and Technology by providing opportunities for International R&D experience by SIRE fellows.
- To tap the expertise gained by SIRE fellows to strengthen/initiate national programmes in their domain knowledge.
- To encourage research activities in priority areas that are still less explored in the Indian context.
Benefits
- Monthly fellowship equivalent to US,000 for the full duration of stay (up to 6 months)
- One-time contingency/preparatory allowance of ₹75,000 (covers visa fees, airport transfers, insurance)
- Overseas medical insurance of ₹20,000
- Economy class airfare (shortest route) from India to the host institution and back
💡 Why Startups Should Care
Deep-tech founders who hold an academic position can use this program to fund a 2–6 month research visit to leading global labs — useful for technology transfer, IP development, and building international partnerships.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Indian nationals only
- Must hold a PhD in science or engineering from a recognized Indian institution
- Must hold a permanent position at an Indian research or academic institution
- Doctors with MBBS/MD or Veterinary (MVSc) degrees are also eligible
- TARE (Teachers Associateship for Research Excellence) awardees are eligible
- Must obtain a letter of support from the overseas host institution before applying
- Age limit: 40 years (5-year relaxation for SC/ST/OBC, physically challenged, and women candidates)
How to Apply
- Wait for the call for proposals on serbonline.in
- Register at serbonline.in and confirm your email
- Fill all profile fields: qualifications, experience, fellowships, employment, patents, and publications
- Prepare proposal details: title, keywords (max 6), expected outputs, and tentative visit dates
- Upload your research plan as a PDF (max 10MB)
- Upload endorsement letter from your institution head and approval letter from the overseas host
- Submit through the portal during the application window
- Commence overseas research within one month of the offer letter — the offer is auto-withdrawn after that
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the aim of this scheme?
This scheme 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.
What is the objective of the Scheme?
The following are the objectives of the scheme: To build national capacity in frontier areas of Science and Technology by providing opportunities for International R&D experience by SIRE fellows. To tap the expertise gained by SIRE fellows to strengthen/initiate national programmes in their domain knowledge. To encourage research activities in priority areas which are still less explored in Indian context.
Which is the implementing agency of this scheme?
Science and Engineering Research Board, Government of India
Can I avail SIRE fellowship multiple times?
No, any applicant is eligible to avail this fellowship only once in his / her career.
Can I apply for only one month visit?
No. The duration of the proposed visit must be within 02-6 months.
Can I use SIRE fellowship to visit other nearby institutions during my stay in the proposed country?
No, SIRE fellowship must be utilized only for the purpose for which it has been sanctioned.
Will flight cancellation / rescheduling charges or extra baggage charges be considered under SIRE fellowship?
No. SERB will not provide any type of cancellation / rescheduling charges or extra baggage charges.
I am 41 years old. Can I avail SIRE fellowship?
The maximum age limit to apply under SIRE programme is 40 years. However, SC/ST/OBC and Women candidates will be given age relaxation of 5 years, provided, the applicant has submitted the valid category proof.
What, if I have provided any incorrect/misleading information or breach of terms and conditions?
Fellowship will be cancelled and given support will be withdrawn at any stage. SERB has all the rights to take any action in consultation with the applicant's parent organization / university / institute etc. including refund of entire amount spent on the SIRE Fellow along with the interest thereon to SERB.
I have an ongoing SERB project under CRG/SRG. Am I eligible to apply under SIRE?
Yes.
I have availed ITS support of SERB this year / last year. Am I eligible to apply under SIRE?
Yes.
I have done my Ph.D. from abroad. Am I eligible to apply?
No. Only those candidates who have completed their Ph.D. from India are eligible to apply.
Are INSPIRE Faculty / Ramanujan Fellow eligible to apply under SIRE?
No.
Is tenure track faculty position qualify as permanent position and are they eligible to apply under SIRE?
Yes, however, the institution must endorse the tenure track faculty as permanent faculty.
How can I submit the application form under the scheme?
The application for consideration under the SERB International Research Experience (SIRE) Program can be submitted through the SERB online portal www.serbonline.in only when the call for proposal in made.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Passport-size photograph
- Bio-data of the applicant
- Bio-data of the overseas host scientist
- Consent letter from the host institution
- Research plan (PDF)
- Plagiarism undertaking
- Certificate from the applicant
- Endorsement letter from your institution head
- Age proof (Class 10 mark sheet or birth certificate)
- Category certificate (if claiming age relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/women)