Biotecnika Times - 23rd July 2019 Edition by BioTecNika

July 23rd, 2019

Vol. 03

NO 88

Toll Free Number: 18001-200-1818

www.biotecnika.org

Headlines:

HUMAN BRAIN CAN NOW CONNECT TO COMPUTER VIA ELON MUSK’S – NEURALINK For The First Time Images Captured Of CRISPR-Cas9 Enzyme In Action GET THIS NEWSPAPER e-copy VIA WHATSAPP every week GIVE MISSED CALL TO

080-470-90943

New Govt PhD Scheme – “Videshi PhD & Desi College”

HEADLINES

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Human Brain Can Now Connect To Computer Via Elon Musk’s – Neuralink Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk has finally revealed the initial take a look at what’s is most likely to be his ambitious brain control interface system. MADE BY NEURANLINK, A FIRM STARTED BY MUSK IN 2017, THIS MIND CONTROL INTERFACE IS ULTIMATELY TARGETED AT LINKING “PEOPLE AND COMPUTER SYSTEMS” TO “RECOGNIZE AND DEAL WITH MENTAL PROBLEMS, PRESERVE AND IMPROVE ONE’S VERY OWN MIND, AND PRODUCE A WELL-ALIGNED FUTURE”. By Preety Suman

Musk aims to accomplish this new era AI tech with the help of a chip, implanted in the human skull. The man behind SpaceX & Tesla has been known for his futuristic visions & innovations to take humanity to the next techie level. Be it self driving electric cars or rocket launchers aimed at outer space habitat exploration – Musk’s Ideas have been out of the box. And here he is with a mind-bending project – Neuralink. Neuralink has revealed little brain “strings” in a chip which is resilient, usable at home. Owing to its easy usage & lesser complexity it has the potential to replace the existing difficult devices currently used as brain-machine interfaces. Regulated by an apple iPhone application, the chip called “N1 Sensor” with simply a USB port coming out

can have as many as 3,072 electrodes surgical treatments on animals as well per variety dispersed throughout 96 as successfully placed the “strings”. “threads” – each “thread” smaller Musk claims that the moment his sized than the tiniest human hair. Brain Control User Interface (BCIs) The chip which will be cordless in is given a go by the United States the future can read, transmit high-vol- Food and Drug Administration – ume information as well as amplify FDA, it would be all set to unravel a signals from the mind. The aim is large amount of information – treat to drill 4 8mm openings right into brain-related diseases at an entirely patients’ skulls and also insert the new level, mitigating the risk of “ex“strings” each of the size in between istential threat of AI.” 4 and also 6 micrometers– concerning one-third the diameter of a human The Tesla CEO has actually been rather singing when it pertains to hair. brewing threats presented by the exPresently, robotics aids te surgeons pert system. He has actually called AI to do the brain surgical procedure much more unsafe than the “nukes” which, according to a paper launched and in the recent past has actually by Neuralink, has actually executed even increased down on his alarming

warnings to the AI experts. It does not come as much of a surprise then that Musk’s enthusiastic Neuralink endeavor has actually maintained “mitigation” of dangers posed by AI at the center of all activity. Musk time & again have repeated that the Brain-Computer System User Interface is in a nascent phase as well as will take time before a human-machine placement is in fact happened. And prior to Musk’s business might in fact operatively place implants in the human brain.

HEADLINES

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

For The First Time – Images Captured Of CRISPR-Cas9 Enzyme In Action For the very first time, scientists have recorded high-resolution, three-dimensional pictures of CRISPR-Cas9 enzyme in the process of just cutting on DNA strands. THE IMAGES WERE RECORDED UTILIZING A TECHNIQUE CALLED CRYOGENIC ELECTRON MICROSCOPY, OR CRYO-EM. By Preety Suman

It shows new details regarding how gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 functions, which might help researchers develop versions of it which function more effectively and just to change genes that are targeted. The research study is published in Nature Structural and Molecular Biology. This revolutionary finding holds the key for treatment & prevention venting the development of better of a wide range of human ailments gene-editing tools using Cas9 is that we didn’t have any pictures of it accaused by DNA mutations. tually cutting DNA,” said the study’s It is fascinating to be able to see at co-senior author, researcher Miljan this high degree of detail how Cas9 Simonovic. “But today we’ve got a really works to reduce and edit DNA much clearer image, and we even see strands, said UBC researcher Sriram the way the and this might be an imSubramaniam, that led the cryo-EM portant goal for modification.” studies. He added that these images give us invaluable insights to enhance the efficiency of this gene-editing process so that we could hopefully fix disease-causing DNA mutations faster and just in the future. To better comprehend the sequence of events involved with the procedure, Subramaniam and colleagues employed cryo-EM technology to image the Cas9 enzyme at work. The images deliver unprecedented glimpses of their stepwise molecular motions that happen in the span of DNA cutting by Cas9, including a photo of the cut DNA still connected to the receptor immediately prior to release. Miljan Simonovic – Researcher at the University of Illinois and co-senior author of the study said that the main obstacle preventing the development of better versions of Cas9 gene-editing tools was the lack of clear images of how exactly it functions by nicking the DNA. But with this finding, they could even observe major domains of the enzyme move during the reaction which could pave way for the creation of advanced gene-editing tools. “One of the principal hurdles pre-

The Subramaniam lab was the first to achieve atomic resolution imaging of protein-bound medication molecules and proteins utilizing cryo-EM. In the past couple of years, they have pioneered using cryo-EM to visualize an assortment of proteins including metabolic enzymes, mind receptors and DNA-protein complexes.

This study was financially backed by the US National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health grants, the UIC Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences, and by a Canada Excellence Research Chair position awarded to Subramaniam.

HEADLINES

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

New Govt PhD Scheme – “Videshi PhD & Desi College” The Govt is working on a proposal to give scholarships to Indian students aspiring to pursue their PhD Degree at top 200 international universities – But with Terms & Conditions Applied. THEY WILL HAVE TO COME BACK TO INDIA AND SERVE AS TEACHERS AT ANY HIGHER EDUCATION ESTABLISHMENT FOR AT LEAST FIVE YEARS. By Preety Suman

The new New Govt PhD scheme has been formulated by the Ministry of Human Resource Development to facilitate “permanent” return/migration of young Indian academicians / scholars under the age of 40. Under the “Prime Minister Academician return Scheme” scholars returning back to the country will be offered to teach in institutions that are Indian that are chosen. This proposed scheme is expected to be launched by 2020 and will be available to post-doctoral scholars and Indian/Indian-origin PhDs from the top 200 universities of the world. A ministry official said that the returning scholars will be eligible for an appropriate salary package upon joining an Indian Institute. One-Time relocation money & one-time research grant will also be provided, with eligibility to apply for research top-ups for up to 5 years and apply for an expedited visa and expedited OCI card. Furthermore, scholar’s spouses will be provided assistance for a suitable job search in India and will be supported for obtaining an expedited visa. Besides teaching, the additional responsibilities for these foreign return academicians will be to mentor a minimum of one Indian Ph.D. scholar/post-doctoral scholar every year and also to oversee the geographically-proximate ATAL Tinkering Lab or ATAL Incubation Centre. More details on the scheme from the Govt are awaited. The above news has been adapted from original information published at the Deccan Herald.

NEWS

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Jeff Bezos Moon Dream – How Practical It Is? Biological Challenges He May Face? He was just 5 years old when Jeff Bezos first saw the Americans walked on the lunar surface in the grainy black and white television. BEING THE ONE WHO CAME UP WITH A BRILLIANT BUSINESS IDEA OF ONLINE SHOPPING PORTAL – AMAZON BACK THEN IN 1994, THIS MAN NEVER STOPPED THINKING ABOUT THE MOON. By Kajol Patel

In between handling the shipping, the web servers, the newspapers and groceries this dream of touching the moon never went out of his mind. Jeff Bezos is the man wearing multiple hats and playing a varied role in his leading company Amazon and owning The Washington Post. He also runs a spaceflight company named Blue Origin which interestingly has come up with a giant spacecraft designed to touch the lunar surface having a small rover with eyes like WALL-E. “This is an incredible vehicle,” Bezos said, grinning. “And it’s going to the moon.” And in case you are surprised to hear this name for the first time that’s because the work conducted by the Blue Origin is secretive and they rarely hold a press event. Bezos spends nearly $1 billion on it each year which he collects from selling off his Amazon stock. Till now Blue Origin has carried out many successful flights on its rocket named New Shepard rock, named after Alan Shepard who was the first American to go into space. The rocket goes upward until it reaches the space and then lands vertically. Bezos wants to fly space tourists as early as this year and with this, another ambitious dream of his is moon which requires different technology. The beautiful machine is designed to make a landing on the moon which is named as BlueJeff Bezos Moon Dream - How Practical It Is? Biological Challenges He May Face? Moon. It’s gleaming, ponderous, and insect-like, with lean legs to cushion the landing. The plan or at least the part of it is before touching down on the lunar surface, Blue Moon will release some of the tiny satellites, putting them into an orbit around the moon. Their aim is to collect scientific data.

Visionary Bezos is of the opinion that Earth’s resources are finite and someday they will get depleted. This will result in human species finding or forced to seek other homes. “Space is the only way to go,” Bezos said. So, the plan of Blue Origin is to land a robotic ship which is the size of a small house and which can carry rovers with the help of a rocket engine and soaped up a rocket. It’s that version that could bring people to the moon in the same time frame as NASA’s proposed 2024 return.

the infrastructure so they will be able to. We are going to build a road to space,” Bezos stated to the audience. “And then amazing things will happen. Then you’ll see entrepreneurial creativity. Then you’ll see space entrepreneurs start companies in their dorm rooms. That can’t happen today.” But how practical Jeff Bezos dream is from a biological point of view:

While describing how Earth is by far the best planet in the solar sysHe stated: “It’s time to go back to the tem to habitat life and how we should moon. This time to stay.” all protect it, but how much is Bezos contributing to this thought really?! Bezos spacefaring dreams have always been associated with the moon. 1. Water Hence, he also was a firm believer of the vision put forth by his former Where we are already started facprofessor, the late Princeton physicist ing the water crisis, it’s quite a bigger Gerald O’Neill. O’Neill envisioned a challenge in front of Blue orbit right future with millions of humans living now. It has been proved that there is up in space in giant orbiting space water ice on the surface of the moon cylinders, harnessing the energy of at two lunar south and north pole. But the sun, growing crops. This Physicist it’s still in the frozen form in order to theorized that the moon being free of make it in a useable form it needs to the atmosphere and which is a repos- be melted and processed which addiitory of raw materials with drastic tionally will require even more energravitational forces of the earth can gy. act as a staging ground to construct and launch economically efficient 2. Gravity habitats. This view of Bezos set him apart from his space-faring tech col- The myth that the moon doesn’t league Elon Musk. Elon Musk visual- have a gravitational pull is false, it’s ized planet Mars as humanity’s most just that the moon’s surface gravsuitable Plan B. ity is weaker than that of the Earth. In one of the famous episodes from “The kids here and their kids and NASA’s Apollo 17 mission in 1972, grandchildren will build these colo- it can be clearly seen how moonwalknies. My generation’s job is to build er Jack Schmitt fumbles over while

collecting a bag which is present on the lunar surface. Mission controller spent a huge amount of time analyzing this video footage to understand why they lost balance and what all techniques they can use as a backup in order to walk upright. Only recently it was found that humans need at least 15 percent of the level of gravity found on earth to orient themselves, and these findings were published in the journal PLOS ONE. And on the moon, there is about 17 percent of Earth’s gravity which is enough to provide cues to understand which way the astronauts should go. 3. Food In order to cultivate a huge amount of food, a huge amount of energy will be needed to transport it from the earth itself. We haven’t really found a reasonable and reliable source of energy on the moon hence to run this whole habitat consisting of trillions of people, it will be a big challenge to understand and find the source of reliable energy to produce food, to keep the dome working, etc. Oxygen is absent in the space hence it is worth noting down how Bezos will fulfill this huge requirement of oxygen in order to sustain life on the moon.

Next Page>>>>

NEWS

4. Genetic and immune response NASA had conducted an experiment called the ‘Twins Study’, in which two astronauts, in reality, who were twin brothers, were kept under observations on how space affects the health. Out of these twins, Mark Kelly, conducted approximately 400 experiments and spent 340 days in space to understand how his body reacted when subjected to extreme conditions at the International Space Station. His twin, Scott Kelly, was considered as a control and remained on Earth in order to understand the difference through comparison. An interesting finding was Mark’s gene expression and immune system. They found that Mark’s aged slowly as compared to his brother and he could maintain immunity by vaccination. Mark’s gene behaved quite differently in space but was reverted to normal level after spending 6 months back on earth. 5. Can a human baby be born in

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

space? Although a human-related birth hasn’t experimented so far, in 1983 the Soviet Union had launched a satellite having a pregnant rat on board and they concluded that the trip was harder on the mother than to the fetus. When the babies were brought back to Earth, they were thinner and weaker as compared to their Earthbased counterparts. They also lagged in their mental development which they caught up later. Mother was very much affected who eventually lost a quarter of her body weight and some significant changes in her endocrine and hormonal system. There is a requirement to study this developmental aspect of human development in depth before starting a colony on the moon as it will surely affect the human endocrine system. It will be interesting to see how this aspect will be handled in accordance with Jeff Bezos Moon Dream. 6. Space Sickness

In the absence of Earth’s gravity which weighs down the human body, anyone can get space sickness which is famously called space adaptation syndrome. Very similar to motion sickness but along with this its coupled with disorientation, headaches, vomiting and intense discomfort. 7. Vision Problem History and almost every astronaut have the experience that their vision starts becoming blur in space. The eyeballs are initially affected and become flat and the retina changes a bit. Statistics states that out of 300 astronauts about 43% experience long term vision problem and 23% experienced short-term vision problem. So be ready if this blue orbit plan becomes a reality, it will affect your vision making it blurred. This happened because when one experience weightlessness the fluid travels to your upper body eventually increasing pressure in your head and crushing your optic nerve a

bit. 8. Muscle loss and bone thinning In space lower body muscles loss sometimes referred to as atrophying, has also been observed. One will also experience a loss in bone density. Such developmental growth defects will eventually lead to stunted growth and development. This is one major challenge that Jeff Bezos needs to study as well. Jeff Bezos Moon Dream – More then funding, a thorough analysis & planning is required to send people to Mars or the moon and to understand their biological growth aspects which are most important if someone is visualizing a human habitat on any other planet. Along with the utilization of resources, how resources will be made available for sustaining the human colony is another aspect that needs to be kept in the mind.

CSIR-IICB, Bose Institute & Jadavpur University Scientists Decode Molecular Mechanism Behind Latent TB EACH YEAR APPROXIMATELY 9 MILLION NEW CASES OF TUBERCULOSIS INFECTION ARE REPORTED GLOBALLY. By Preety Suman

Mycobacterium tuberculosis – the TB-causing bacterium can stay dormant in the body for decades till it turns infectious. In its latent form, the bacterium remains sheltered within a form of white blood cells known as macrophages. Group of researchers from CSIRIICB, Bose Institute & Jadavpur University have decoded the Molecular Mechanism Behind Latent TB. How the tuberculosis bacterium is released from its reservoir inside the human body.

viruses, and parasites. However, the scenario reverses when it comes to TB bacterium. Instead of killing it, the macrophage makes a sac-like formation known as granuloma around it. The equilibrium can last for even several decades before it gets broken resulting in the discharge of infectious germs into the human body. This can happen due to many reasons like lowered immunity due to bodily weakness or infections such as HIV. The group has identified a protein molecule called MPT63 secreted by the bacteria – may be playing a part in the release procedure. Synthetically produced MPT63 protein molecule was subjected to various levels of acidity. The result – when the acidity value is high its structure changed dramatically. It began as what’s referred to as a beta-sheet and it turned into a helical type in the acidic condition, which prevails in the developed granuloma.

A macrophage is an important part of the immune system. It is an amoeba-like organism and its job is to clean out the entire body of microscopic debris and germs. It’s an innate The protein, which was found to capability to track down and consume have no clear function from the foldinvaders like germs, viruses, fungi, ed beta-sheet, abruptly became poisonous on assuming the helical type,

and got into the cell membrane, re- Biology and Bioinformatics Division sulting in the formation of pores and at IICB and staff leader, while talking consequently the death of the host to India Science Wire. cells along with the release of these germs. Besides Dr. Krishnananda, the research team comprised of Achinta “Our team would try to confirm Sannigrahi, Indrani Nandi, Sayantani these findings in field strains of TB Chall, Junaid Jibran Jawed, and Anibacillus and see whether they can be mesh. The analysis results will shortemployed to create new therapeutic ly be released in journal ACS Cheminterventions,” said Dr. Krishnanan- ical Biology. da Chattopadhyay, Head of Structural

NEWS

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Human Pancreas On a Chip To Identify CF-Related Diabetes Scientists have created human pancreas on a chip which will enable the identification of the possible cause of a deadly and frequent complication of cystic fibrosis (CF) called CF-Related Diabetes, or CFRD. IT CAN BE POSSIBLE TO ALSO USE THE SMALL TWO-CHAMBERED DEVICE, WHICH FEATURES BIOENGINEERED HUMAN PANCREATIC ORGANOIDS TO STUDY THE CAUSES OF NON-CF-RELATED CONDITIONS SUCH AS TYPE 1 AND 2 DIABETES, ACCORDING TO RESEARCHERS AT CINCINNATI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER. By Preety Suman

The study reports were published in Nature Communications. For now, Scientists want to see if their device helps people with Cystic Fibrosis – CF a hereditary lung disease brought on by a mutation in the CFTR gene. The mutation leads to a salt and water strain on cell surfaces that clogs the lungs.

small-molecule interventions.

Devices have been around since 1979. But inventions in their layout and performance, especially since the advent of organoid engineering, now allow researchers to bioengineer human organ tissues and mimic the purpose of pure organs in a laboratory setting.

Cystic Fibrosis is known to cause by the CFTR gene but its exact role in CFRD is unclear. To answer this query, the investigators began by isolating pancreatic ductal epithelial As individuals with CF get older, cells and pancreatic islets given by they become more at risk for CFRD, patients. The research team, which includes as per Anjaparavanda Naren, Ph.D., the study’s principal investigator and The ductal organoids were in a study first author and research partDirector of the Cystic Fibrosis Re- transparent dual-chamber called a ner Kyu Shik Mun, PhD, will use the search Center (Division of Pulmo- microﬂuidic device, which contained nary Medicine). Making things worse specific biochemical solutions to creis that until now there has not been an ate the pancreas-on-a-chip. Ductal efficient means to study CFRD in the epithelial cells were cultured at the laboratory to search for better reme- top chamber and pancreatic islet cells were at the bottom chamber, separatdies. ed by a thin coating of a porous mem“Mouse models of CF do not faith- brane that let the different chambers fully recreate CF-Related Diabetes to interact. within the lab, and it wasn’t feasible to examine the disease in the depth we attained in this study,” said Naren. “Our technology closely resembles the pancreas and possibly may help us find curative measures to control glucose imbalance in people with CF, which is linked to increased illness and death.”

The in-vitro chip technologies may be employed to study CFRD and sugar imbalance in specific individuals with the condition, producing the potential for diagnosing different disease manifestations on a highly personalized basis. The chip will help assay variability in the glucose measures of different folks, determine the correlation of glucose levels with the CFTR mutation type, and test

The cells grew and expanded into three-dimensional pancreatic organs that mimicked cell-to-cell fluid and communications exchange, similar to the function of a naturally designed human embryo. When the researchers tested pancreas-on-a-chip by disrupting CFTR gene expression, it impaired cell-tocell communication, fluid exchange, and adversely affected endocrine function. This caused an insulin deficiency and recreated the CFRD disease procedure similar to that observed in the pancreas of a person. Researchers reported this confirmed the CFTR gene has a direct role in regulating insulin secretion and inducing diabetes in people with CF.

apparatus in a pilot study to examine FDA-approved drugs that modulate CFTR gene expression. The goal is to determine how well different CFTR drugs can reverse or slow lab-simulated CFRD. Additionally, tinkering was co-corresponding study author Jamie Nathan, MD, surgical director of the Pancreas Care Center at Cincinnati Children’s.

NEWS

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Smooth Your Wrinkles With Loose RNA – A Johns Hopkins Research Intend to ravel your wrinkles, remove scars and sunspots, and also look years more youthful?

COSMETIC COMPANIES GUARANTEE TO MAKE YOU LOOK YOUNGER, SO LONG AS YOU GET A WIDE VARIETY OF THEIR ITEMS AND CONTINUALLY USE THEM FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE. By Preety Suman

Humankind’s mission for the eternal youth has often come at a terrific cost both financially and also ethically. Currently, Johns Hopkins researchers have discovered that laser therapies and also the drug retinoic acid share a usual molecular pathway. Furthermore, that path– which allows skin cells to pick up loosened RNA molecules– is additionally turned up in mice when they regenerate hair roots. Results can be read in Nature Communications journal. “Comprehending the biology behind exactly how damage at a cellular level can cause this kind of regeneration can harness a brand-new generation of therapeutics,” says Luis Garza, M.D., Ph.D., Associate professor of dermatology at the Johns Hopkins College of Medicine. Scientists have known for years that mice, unlike human beings, can regrow hair follicles after a deep wound. Recent studies by Garza as well as others discovered that loose pieces of RNA, called self-noncoding double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) could spur this regrowth. They assume that this might be since dsRNA is released by harmed cells at the website of a wound. Garza, as well as his colleagues, wondered whether dsRNA additionally contributed to skin rejuvenation therapies such as laser treatment, micro-needling as well as facial abrasion, which all include temporary damages to skin cells. Although these treatments are reputable among skin specialists, scientists have not been clear why they function. The group gathered biopsies from 17 individuals being diagnosed with at The Johns Hopkins Health center with conventional laser skin restoration to get rid of sunspots as well as wrinkles electively. All people were White women with an average age of

55, and therapies were executed on their faces and also arms. Skin biopsies were collected prior to the laser treatment and also one week after the treatment. Garza, as well as his coworkers, evaluated the expression levels of genes in each sample as well as discovered that genes associated with sensing dsRNA along with genes involved in creating the skin’s all-natural retinoic acid were all revealed at greater degrees after the laser treatment. Next off, the researchers treated separated human skin cells with loose dsRNA– simulating the effect of the laser treatment — the amount of retinoic acid inside the cells raised by more than significantly. Readily created retinoic acid is currently utilized to treat acne, wrinkles, as well as sunspots. ” It’s not a mishap that laser restoration, as well as retinoic acid, have actually both succeeded treatments for early aging of the skin from sunlight damages and also various other kinds of direct exposure,” states Garza. “They’re really working in the exact same molecular pathways, and also no one knew that until now.” To further strengthen and also comprehend the link, the researchers turned to mice. They knew that in both mice as well as human beings, a healthy protein called toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) detects dsRNA. When Garza’s team crafted mice to do not have TLR3, the pets can no longer regrow hair roots after a wound. When the researchers gave these mice reti-

noic acid, they reclaimed the capacity to regenerate the roots. The results point towards a path entailing TLR3 that detects double-stranded RNA and shows up the synthesis of retinoic acid. ” In retrospect, it makes a great deal of feeling since retinoic acid is already a pillar of wrinkle reduction as well as nobody recognized what turned it on,” says Garza. “Currently, we understand that damages result in dsRNA, which leads to TLR3 activation and retinoic acid synthesis.” The searchings for could result in

novel approaches to minimize wrinkles and sunspots by incorporating retinoic acid and laser treatments in new means, Garza says. They could additionally cause methods to restore hair follicles, as mice do when there’s an increase in dsRNA after an injury. ” After a shed, human beings do not regrow structures like hair roots and gland that made use of to be there,” claims Garza. “It’s feasible because of these new findings that double-stranded RNA may have the ability to enhance the look of burn marks.”

NEWS

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

UC San Diego Cancer Researchers Identify Novel Drug Target For Multiple Tumor Types A group of Scientists has identified an enzyme which plays a key role in remodeling the plasma membrane of multiple cancer cell types that are required for both survivals of tumors and also their uncontrolled enlargement. THE STUDY WAS LED BY CHIEF RESEARCHERS AT UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AND THE LUDWIG INSTITUTE FOR CANCER RESEARCH AT UC SAN DIEGO. By Preety Suman

The study was published in Cell Metabolism and suggests a possible target for new drugs. “Cancers are distinguished not only by significant changes in their genomes but also by profound shifts in how they consume and use nutrition to propel rapid tumor development,” said senior author Paul S. Mischel. How can these varied aspects fit together and will they be cared for, for the benefit of patients” In the new study, conducted in collaboration with Benjamin Cravatt, PhD, professor at Scripps Research, and led by original author Junfeng Bi, PhD, in Mischel’s lab, researchers identified a molecule called LPCAT1, whose degrees increase in cancer and which plays a key role in tumor growth by altering the phospholipid composition of the cancer cells’ plasma cells, allowing amplified and mutated growth factor signs to spur tumor growth. With no LPCAT1, tumors can’t survive. When researchers genetically depleted LPCAT1 in a number of kinds of cancer in mice, such as exceptionally lethal glioblastomas (mind ) and aggressive lung cancer, malignancies shrank dramatically and survival times improved. The findings demonstrate that LPCAT1 enzyme is a key enzyme that gets dysregulated in cancer, linking common genetic alterations in tumors with changes in their metabolism to drive aggressive tumor growth. “Advances in DNA sequencing technology have reshaped our comprehension of the molecular basis of cancer, implying a new and more effective method of treating cancer patients,” stated Mischel. “However, to date, precision oncology has to

benefit many patients, motivating a deeper search into knowing how genetic alterations in tumors alter the way cancer cells act, and potentially

unlocking new techniques to more effectively treat patients. “These results also imply that LP-

CAT1 might be a really persuasive new drug target in a wide array of cancer types.”

CAREER ADVICE

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Which Fellowship Is Better For You? CSIR / GATE / ICMR / DBT Just finished with your Masters? Or maybe you are in your final year, and hell scared about your career ahead? Then go on reading further, this article might be of great help to you. ALMOST EVERY SUCH STUDENT ENDS UP BEING SUPER CONFUSED AT THIS PHASE OF THEIR CAREER. PROPER GUIDANCE AND A BIT OF SELF-ANALYSIS CAN MAKE THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS EXTREMELY SMOOTH. By Urmimala Ray

Being life science students, you must already be aware of the need and importance to be associated with the research domain. Be it academics or even some industry where you are expected to be exposed to research-based activities. Hence a Ph.D. is going to become a mandate in the near future. But getting into such programs is again another challenge. One is required to clear entrance exams to be eligible for application at renowned institutions/universities, and also to be entitled to fellowships/ scholarships to be able to self-fund their further studies. But then again, there are quite such fellowships available like CSIR, ICMR, GATE, DBT, etc, and can be intimidating to choose one from these, to ensure you get your monthly stipends on time and complete your Ph.D. successfully. Worry not, this article will help you to understand your requirements and opt for your most suitable fellowship.

al contingency grant of Rs. 20000 per fellow in addition to this. Most Renowned Fellowship In India The best part of CSIR fellowship is that it is one of the most recognized fellowships for PhD in India and definitely adds a heavy weightage to the CV of the qualifying students. Also since it is a nationwide accepted fellowship, students get to choose their institutions where they want to pursue research, based on their skills and interests. However, they can do so only after qualifying rounds of interviews and maybe even an additional institutional entrance exam to get into their dream institute, but yes, CSIR doesn’t put any restrictions on the institute of choice.

Below we have discussed on Which fellowship is better for you – CSIR / GATE / ICMR or DBT? Let’s start The CSIR fellowships are tenable in analyzing: any of the government research institutions, universities, IITs, government CSIR establishments, CSIR research laboratories or any R&D establishments CSIR Fellowship Details of recognized public or Private Sector. However, CSIR also reserves the CSIR UGC NET exam, via which right to determine the place best suityou can either get Junior Research ed to provide the necessary facilities Fellow or Lecturership if you qualify in the science and technology field in the exam. If you clear this exam, you which the awardees are to specialize. not only get to work as a researcher in a prestigious laboratory/ institute Added Advantages but also get an opportunity to bag Rs. 31000 as a monthly stipend for –> Appearing for the CSIR exam has the 1st 2 years and then Rs. 35000 an advantage that fellowships are offor the next 3 years. This is as per fered from both CSIR and UGC, both the latest updates, where the Central having separate merit lists. Needless Government has enhanced the month- to say, the number of fellowships ofly stipend allocated to JRF, SRF and fered by CSIR is much more. The seat Ph.D. scholars in the field of Science limit can be as high as 1500 students/ & Technology. There is also an annu- exam conducted every 6 months.

–> CSIR qualifying candidates can take advantage of other benefits too apart from earning the scholarship amount, such as they need not pay any income tax during their fellowship tenure and that they can use the prize money to advance their research activities. CSIR also provides travel assistance to some deserving research scholars working in an academic or research institution in India to participate in conferences, symposia, etc. held abroad. –> There are other 2 very important added advantages, which exclusively comes with CSIR NET exam qualification. One is that the JRFs are automatically entitled to Lectureship in any institute across the country. No other Ph.D. entrance exams have any such possibility. –> Another one is the top students clearing JRF are awarded a special fellowship called the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Grant. This fellowship stipend amount is Rs.36000/- + HRA per month during the first two years of the fellowship and a Contingency grant of Rs.70000/- per annum. It may be raised to a whopping Rs.42000/- + HRA per month from third year onwards on the basis of assessment through interview. This also has a condition, that if performance is not found satisfactory, it may be reverted to JRF (NET)

BE/ BTech/ BArch/ BPharm degree to pursue research leading to Ph.D. CSIR has also introduced a new research fellowship in 2002 known as the GATE qualified Junior Research Fellowship (JRF-GATE). Such fellowships are tenable only at CSIR laboratories. This scheme is an excellent opportunity for JRFs to work with the CSIR scientists with state-of-art R&D facilities. The aim of JRF-GATE is to generate high-level science and to attain academic excellence; hence such scholars are expected to contribute to lab research through a suitable Ph.D. program. Fresh BE/ B Tech degree holders with valid GATE score are eligible candidates to apply for the same. The selected candidates will get to pursue Ph.D. either by getting direct admission to a Ph.D. program of University/ IIT/ NIT/REC etc, or the candidate may pursue MTech as a part of the Ph.D. program, after joining as JRF-GATE. In order to keep the continuity for the Ph.D. program, their thesis semester (last semester) should be spent at the CSIR laboratory relating to lab specialization. However, it should be noted that MTech candidates (either with BTech/ MTech or with MSc/ MTech) are not eligible for this fellowship. Instead, they have a separate opportunity for direct SRFship through interview. Hence, all

JRF-GATE Scheme There is yet another opportunity for GATE qualified candidates with

Next Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

those who are eligible for direct CSIR SRF cannot apply for this fellowship. The selected candidates receive fellowships as per the CSIR guidelines for a total duration of five years within which the candidate is required to complete the Ph.D. degree. On completion of 2 years as JRF-GATE, the fellowship may be upgraded to SRFGATE. The Director may recommend up-gradation of the fellowship to SRF-GATE, in case any exceptional candidate completes MTech within one year of joining JRF-GATE. All other conditions of JRF-NET are applicable. However, JRF-GATE fellows cannot be deployed in any sponsored project. Important: Qualifying candidates should register for Ph.D. within two years of joining, otherwise the fellowship is deemed to be canceled and withdrawn. Also, the intimation about Ph.D. registration is to be sent to HRDG. ICMR Next coming to ICMR NET exam, this is conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), an organization offering the awards to young scientists with the Junior Research Fellowships (JRFs) to help them to carry out a successful research in the field of Biomedical Sciences and Social Sciences at Medical Colleges, Biomedical Research Institutes and Universities in India. –> A major disadvantage for this fellowship is that only a total of 150 Fellowships are awarded per year. Needless to say, there is a huge competition for these fellowship120 candidates are selected for work in the field of biomedical sciences (emphasis on life sciences) and 30 for social sciences. –> Another 100 candidates are selected for consideration for positions of JRF under various ICMR research projects only for the duration of that project. The fellowship amount is the same as that of CSIR. –> These JRFs are permitted to complete a Ph.D. while working in the project if enrolled. The validity of the result is two years for placement in ICMR funded projects for this category. The validity is only for a year and the tenure is only for 2 years. –> Another disadvantage of ICMR fellowship is that the selection of institutes is very restricted, as is the field of research. Hence qualifying and selected candidates don’t have

many options to choose from. On the other hand, ICMR exam qualification opens up the opportunity for students who specifically wish to work in the medical research field, such as the study of diseases, causative agents, their spread or epidemiology. DBT DBT-BET Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) program is the flagship and the most prestigious program of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. JRF program was initiated by the department way back in 1985 to enhance the students to pursue research in the field of biotechnology in the country. This program was initially implemented by the University of Pune, then it was shifted to National Cell culture Science, Pune, and off-late, Biotech Consortium India Limited is helping DBT with the implementation of DBT-JRF. The main key objective of the DBTJRF program is to provide fellowship to enough researchers in Biotechnology field in the country. Therefore, DBT-JRF entrance exam will have more questions from Biotechnology oriented topics like Recombinant DNA Technology, Immunology, Biochemical Engineering, etc. The DBTJRF entrance exam is exclusively framed for the Biotechnology qualifications. –> JRF has a provision for 250-270 fellowships per year, but in the past years, although not more than 150175 students have actually activated the fellowship. –> DBT JRF has are 2 categories of fellowships. The 1st category offers 275 fellowships which are tenable in any research institutions or universities. Under the 2nd category, a merit list of 100 students is published; who is eligible to join any of the DBT funded external projects in the country. However, DBT does not provide fellowship to these candidates. They have to avail the fellowship from the project that they are working in. Some institutions projects may not even allow the student to register for Ph.D. This is distinct from the 1st category, where the student has to mandatorily register for Ph.D. in order to avail the fellowship. DBT Fellowship Details The fellowship amount for DBT JRF as of now is lesser: Rs. 25000/month

+ HRA and for SRF it is Rs. 28000/ month + HRA. DBT is under the same ministry as the Department of Science and Technology. Hence, the amounts get revised once in every 5 years, depending on the inflation and the corresponding increase and prevailing fellowships provided by the other agencies. So this may also get be hiked very soon.

Fellowship, which is only granted to few exceptionally meritorious GATE qualified students, where candidates may be entitled to a Rs 70000-80000 fellowship in the duration of 5 years. This may be an added advantage for GATE, but no doubt, it will be very difficult to bag, as there are other eligibility criteria as well. GATE Exam Preparation Kit

The contingency grant is slightly higher in DBT fellowships, where Rs. So to sum up, while all the Biotech 30,000 is provided per year. entrance exams listed above are of importance and has its own aim. They –> One advantage of the DBT-JRF all will help you build & propel your fellowship is that it is directly dis- career in research. So you have a few bursed to the students, whereas nor- options here from which you can mally other fellowships are disbursed choose: to the institutes, where the students are pursuing their Ph.D. Very recent- • You can attempt all the Exams – ly, DBT had implemented direct benBut select at least 2 which you efit transfer scheme of Government want to clear sureshot. of India with effect from 1st April • Preparing for CSIR NET Exam 2018. Under this scheme, around alone helps you prepare for other 629 fellowships were transferred to exams as well. the Junior Research Fellows / Senior • Majority of Biotech Candidates Research fellows’ respective bank acPrepare simultaneously for counts. CSIR NET, DBT & GATE Exam together. GATE • Of course, qualifying all the above Exams gives you “The One thing about GATE is that it is Added Advantage” over all other not an exam for pursuing a Ph.D. decandidates in the queue. gree as such. GATE Biotechnology or GATE Life Science Exam qualifi- As per the in-depth analysis of all cation entitles one to pursue M.Tech, the above exams and the fellowship but apart from that GATE score is provided – It is always best to aim also considered by the IITs/universi- for the CSIR NET Fellowship if you ties/institutions to enroll for a Ph.D. are not having any specific requiredegree. ments in the research field, as ICMR and DBT may be a little restrictive in The procedure for getting admission these areas. But in the end, the choice for Ph.D. depends on the respective is yours. Analyze what your goals are, institute. While some institutes may what you are good at and then tread require GATE as mandatory for get- accordingly. ting admission, while some others may require CSIR NET as mandato- “There are no secrets to success. ry. Some IIITs and other NITs may It is the result of preparation, hard require neither GATE nor CSIR NET work, and learning from failure.” – as mandatory. Such institutes conduct Colin Powell their own exams and yet provide a “It takes determination to see a stipend. All in all, it depends on the dream come to pass. The question is institute in which candidates want to not will you start, but will you finapply for. ish.” – Joel Osteen GATE Fellowship Details A stipend of ₹28,000 per month is given for the 1st year and for the next 4 years, ₹30,000 per month for regular Ph.D. programs. The stipends generally depend on the type of Ph.D. program you are in i.e., regular/parttime/sponsored/Research Interns, etc. Prime Minister Research Fellowship Apart from this, there is new scheme called as the Prime Minister Research

CAREER ADVICE

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Top 10 Biotech Govt Colleges / Institutes List BIOTECHNOLOGY is an extensive discipline which includes the utilization of various biological processes, cells or cellular components, organisms to develop advanced technologies. MODERN AS WELL AS ADVANCED TECHNIQUES AND PRODUCTS INVENTED BY BIOTECHNOLOGISTS ARE SERVICEABLE IN DIFFERENT SECTORS LIKE AGRICULTURE, RESEARCH, INDUSTRY AND THE CLINIC. By Ankita Trivedi

Biotechnology is one of the most emerging fields of technological development. Its omnipresent utilization across vivid industries such as chemicals, textiles, pharmaceutical, bio-products, nutrition, animal sciences, and environmental conservation constructs a career in Biotech- come true. nology as one of the rapidly growing fields with abundant opportunities for TOP 10 BIOTECH GOVT COLhighly qualified individuals or pro- LEGES / INSTITUTES : fessionals. One who wants to have a bright career in this field should have 1.Indian Institute of Technology certain qualities such as patience, co- (IITs) herent, accuracy and aptitude for laboratory work. IIT is the loftiest institute of technology in India. It is admired all around It is the desire of every individual to the globe and isTop Biotech Govt get a degree from topmost and highly College considered as THE BEST reputed colleges & Institutes so that locale to study BIOTECHNOLOGY. they can fly high with their deter- Numerous branches of IIT are there mined aim. There are numerous ac- in different regions of India, naming claimed Top Biotech Govt colleges/ few of them – IIT Delhi, IIT Roorkee, institutes in India that offer compre- IIT Mumbai, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Kanhensive Biotech degree courses. pur and many more. One can study B.Tech and M.Tech courses related to Do you know what is the most im- Biotechnology from this institute. IIT portant and toughest decision nowa- holds an entrance test for grabbing a days regarding higher studies ?? It is seat in this reputable organization of to choose the best and right college/ India. Advanced, applied as well as institute after completing the 10+2 concerted courses offered here help curriculum or Bachelor’s degree. the students to get a fringe over varTrust me it is !! ious other biotechnologists in the world. Apart from the scored marks, the first and foremost thing which comes Course Structure to your mind is whether to study in a GOVERNMENT COLLEGE or • B.Tech & M.Tech Biotechnoloa private college. Highly qualified gy and trained faculty are available in • M.Tech Bioprocess Engineering government colleges which helps the • Ph.D. Program students to score much better in any competitive examinations. It is a par- 2. Delhi Technical University amount facet being the popularity of (DTU) the government colleges. DTU is another topmost universities Let us have a look at the Top 10 in India that offer brilliant course curmost reputed Biotech govt colleges or riculum in Top Biotech Govt College institutes that can make your dream DTUBiotechnology. The institute was of becoming BIOTECHNOLOGIST being run by the Government of Na-

tional Capital Territory of Delhi since 1963. Later in 2009, it was given the status of the STATE UNIVERSITY and was popularized as Delhi Technical University. Students in B.Tech courses are enrolled through the Joint Admission Counselling Delhi (JAC-Delhi). Biotechnology department was founded in 2004 focusing on the top class training as well as research in various interdisciplinary areas of biotechnology toward the blossoming of advanced technologies of materialistic significance. Course Structure • B.Tech Biotechnology • M.Tech Biotech / Bioinformatics • Ph.D. Program For further details, visit the link www.dtu.ac.in 3. National Institute of Technology (NITs) In total 31 NIT’s are there in India that bestows technical courses to the aspirants who Top 10 Biotech Govt Collegeswant a career in Biotechnology. It is one of the spearheading institutes that offer biotechnological courses. Gaining a seat here in NIT is not at all easy, candidate needs to qualify the Joint Entrance Exam with an overwhelming victory. You can expect various degrees from this institute like B.Tech, M.Tech, as well as the Ph.D. scholarship, is also offered for meritorious candidates. Each NIT desires to attain excellence by imparting best training to the students in the

entire spectrum of Biotechnology research, education, and consultancy. Course Structure • B.Tech in Biotechnology • M.Tech in Biotechnology • Ph.D. Program For further details, visit the link https://www.nitt.edu/ 4. Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu A public state university located in Chennai, Anna University is quite distinguished for its department of Biotechnology. It encompasses six government colleges, three government-assisted private institutes and 426 self-financed colleges in total. Anna University is one of the prestigious universities housing some renowned institutes like Madras Institute of Technology (MIT), Alagappa College of Technology. School of Architecture & Planning (SAP) and College of Engineering, Guindy. University renders several undergraduate, postgraduate and research programs which mainly focuses on the fields of Biotechnology and Food Technology. You can get admitted to any of the courses by qualifying an entrance test which is conducted by the university itself. Two state-level exams are also conducted by the Anna University TNEA and TANCET. GATE quali-

Next Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

fied candidates are exempted from this TANCET exam who are willing to get admission in M.Tech courses. Course Structure • B.Tech. Industrial Biotechnology • M.tech. Biotechnology • B.Tech and M.Tech Food Technology • B.Tech. Biopharmaceutical Technology • M.Tech. Pharmaceutical Technology • M.Tech. Nanoscience and Technology • M.Sc. Computational Biology • Ph.D. Program 5. Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai ICT was established as the Department of Chemical Technology through dynamic support of industries and benefactors in 1933 by the University of Mumbai. Earlier it was known as UDCT, Mumbai. Research has been an inherent part of the Institute of Chemical Technology since its origination and has created 500 or even more first-generation tycoons. Since then, it has been continuously receiving funds and grants from DAE, DST, DBT, UGC and other foreign agencies. ICT is regarded as the best Post Graduate center in India having a strong and dedicated inclination towards research culture. ICT has innumerable research centers in the campus only like DBT-ICT, Center for Green Technology and Center for Energy Bioscience. They have certain academic collaborations with Foreign universities and India. This particular institute has a magnificent history of 78 years sharing the shaping and packaging process of many Academics, Industrialists, Bureaucrats, Padma awardees, Directors of CSIR labs, Secretaries to Government Departments. To name a few, Mukesh Ambani (Chairman of the Reliance Industries), Kallam Anji Reddy (Founder of DR. Reddy’s Laboratories), Ashwin Dani (Founder of Asian Paints) and the list is endless. You can also be a part of this institute and shape your career as well as the future. To facilitate admission to various courses offered by ICT, two separate exams are conducted- MHT CET and JEE Main Everyone wants to have that ‘TAG’ of some prestigious institutes, ICT is one of them. Believe in your Dreams and keep your dreams Alive! Course Structure

• M.Tech. Bioprocess Technology • M.Tech. Food Biotechnology • Ph.D. Biochemistry/Biotechnology (the Ph.D. program is unarguably among the best ones in India) For further details, visit the link www.ictmumbai.edu.in/ 6. Madurai Kamaraj University MKU in Tamil Nadu is on its unabated journey for the past 51 years conquering all the aboriginal and tropical nature on its way and through passing entrustment, it has reached the status of supremacy. Its aim is head high with all its efforts in progress to keep the momentum of excellence in the process. MKU includes several centers mainly focussing on the research and development of manpower, producing different services in the fields of proteomics, database development, molecular modeling, structural bioinformatics, and drug designing. Chief Centers embraces Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics, Center for Genetic Engineering & Strain manipulation and Center for plant molecular biology. Renowned government organizations like DBT, DST, UGC, CSIR, DRDO and many more provide funds and grants to this University. Predominantly the major research is carried out in R-Technology for plants and microbes, Immunology, Immunotechnology, and Biophysics. University is engrossed with well-furnished labs and outstanding infrastructure which motivates the students to carry out the exigent testing in the fields of Structural Genomics, Proteomics, Genetic engineering, and Genomics. Madurai Kamaraj University has also been granted with the position of UNIVERSITY WITH POTENTIAL FOR EXCELLENCE by UGC. Course Structure • M.Sc. Biotechnology • M.Sc. Computational Biology • Advance Diploma in Plant Genomics • Advance Diploma in Bioinformatics For further details about the University, courses offered & Fee structure, visit the link Madurai Kamaraj University Courses. 7. Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore Devi Ahilya University, Indore is formerly known as the University of

Indore is one of the most acknowledged universities at National as well as International level, as it is apparent from the placement records of their alumni. It is one of the Top Govt Biotech Colleges where students are admitted to Biotechnology course in this University through a Combined Entrance Examination in Biotechnology (CEEB) at all India level, which is conducted by JNU, New Delhi. The main strength of this university is a strong research profile of their teaching staff and their avidity to do even better always. University provides a highly active and positive research environment that nurture students scientific adroitness and abilities.

desired Study in India Programme. It has also been conceded through a number of awards: a grading of ‘A ’ (which is the highest ), by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and PURSE, given by Prime Minister of India.

The University has grabbed its position among the top 100 in Asia in its various academic fields of study, which includes Applied Sciences, Basic Sciences, Medical Science, Engineering Science, Neural & Cognitive Sciences and many more. School of Life Sciences encompasses several departments like-Department of Plant Sciences, Department of Animal Biology, Department of Biochemistry, The Department of Biotechnology Department of Systems and Compuhas the absolute potential for Plant tational Biology and Department of Tissue Culture, Microbiology, En- Biotechnology & Bioinformatics. zyme Technology, Genetic Engineering, and Environmental Biotechnolo- Course Structure gy. Enriched with high-level research database and software tools, Devi • M.Sc. Programs Ahilya University has one sub-center • M.Tech Bioinformatics of Bioinformatics. Apart from CEEB, • Integrated M.Sc + Ph.D. Proconducted by JNU, New Delhi; Unigramme in Biotechnology & Biversity itself also conducts exam CET oinformatics & DET for M.Sc. genetic Engineer- • 5-Year Integrated M.Sc Proing, M.Sc. Bioinformatics and other gramme in Systems Biology courses. Scholarships are also offered • Integrated M.Sc + Ph.D. Profor the meritorious students. The imgramme in Biochemistry and plausible placement cell of the UniMolecular Biology versity helps to escort and serve students for higher studies in India and For further details, the School WebAbroad. site can be reached at https://www. uohyd.ac.in/index.php/academCourse Structure ics/2011-10-27-18-38-04/school-oflife-sciences • M.Sc. Biotechnology • M.Sc. Genetic Engineering 9.National Institute of Pharma• M.Sc. Bioinformatics ceutical Education &Research • Ph.D. Program NIPER, the paramount national levFor further details, visit the link: el institute in Pharmaceutical Scienchttps://www.dauniv.ac.in/ es with a manifested objective of becoming center of supremacy for 8. University of Hyderabad advanced research and studies in pharmaceutical sciences is located in UoH- The University of Hydera- Mohali, Punjab. NIPER is declared as bad is one of the prime institutions of an ‘Institute of National Importance’ higher studies in India and is primar- by the Government of India and is ily devout to Postgraduate education. one of the Top 10 Biotech Govt ColSince 1974, it has been widely known leges / Institutes from where you can for its eminence in research & prom- pursue your higher degree. It believes inent faculty and has come out as a in the promotion of novel and transleading teaching and research center. lational research. It offers various deAlmost 150 programs of study rang- gree programs supported by different ing from research studies to Masters academic departments such as- Delevel degree, as well as short-term partment of Biotechnology, Departcourses by Distance mode and a wide ment of Pharmacology and Toxicolrange of post-graduate diplomas, are ogy, Department of Pharmaceutical offered by the University of Hydera- Technology. One can get admitted to bad. In addition to all these amenities, this reputed institute on the basis of it also thrives a 5-year Integrated Masters Programme. UoH has built up a totally different status in an academic field, it hosts an expanding number of foreign scholars in the tremendously Next Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

GPAT/NIPER JEE/GATE/NET entrance examination. Course Structure • M.Sc. in Biotechnology • M.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Analysis • M.Sc. in Pharmacology & Toxicology • M.Sc. in Pharmacoinformatics • M.Tech. in Pharmacy Technology • Ph.D. Programme For further details, visit the link http://www.niper.nic.in 10. Banaras Hindu University

BHU, situated in the religious city of Varanasi is an internationally respected house of learning and experience. The university consists of over 15000 students associated with different streams of life, castes, races & religions emphasizing the immigration of a large number of foreign students from the U.S.A., Europe countries, etc. Its main aim is to promote new emerging ideas related to science and technology in addition to the cultivation of intellectual and cultural activities. BHU is small Virtually the universe in miniature. It offers plenty of courses for undergraduate, post-graduate, diplomas as well as for Ph.D. program. Most of the students dream to be a part of this organization. The entrance examination is conducted by

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

the university itself to get admission in the various courses offered by the BHU, apart from that Combined Entrance Test at the national level is also conducted by JNU, New Delhi. They also demand CSIR, UGC, GATE fellowships for certain degree programs.

but there are also plenty of organizations that offer Diverse courses in Biotechnology & its allied fields. But getting admissions to the above-listed colleges is an achievement in itself. Therefore, if Biotechnology field enchanted you in school days and have, at some end, contemplated to take Course Structure your interest further, rest secured of the colossal potential and value that • M.Sc. Biotechnology this field possesses and Set your • Ph.D. Programme BEST foot forward to ACQUIRE the SCHOLASTIC INSTITUTE of your For further details, visit the link dreams. http://www.bhu.ac.in/ “Work Hard And Never Give Up So here we are with the Top 10 Bi- On Your Dreams, Even When Nootech Govt Colleges / Institutes List. body Else Believes They Can Come Biotechnology is not only confined to True But You.” the colleges or institutes listed above,

Genetic Engineering Career, Job Scope, Salary, Companies Hiring

In our day to day lives, we hear about new inventions in life sciences for the benefit of mankind. It might be related to the insecticide or herbicide resistant plant varieties development, induced increase nutrient content in vegetables or fruit and diagnosis of birth defects or diseases. ALL THIS HAS BEEN POSSIBLE BECAUSE OF GENETIC ENGINEERING. STUDY OF GENETICS HAS NOT ONLY TO MAKE US UNDERSTAND WHY WE ALL HAVE DIFFERENT PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS (HAIR, EYE COLOR, ETC.), WHY WE RESEMBLE OUR PARENTS BUT HAS ALSO RESULTED IN TAKING SCIENCE TO A LEVEL BEYOND IMAGINATION. By Dr.Tanushree

It is now possible to sequence and edit the genome. The new CRISPR technology which is the most powerful gene editing tool is a result of genetic engineering. These new inventions have attracted and encouraged students to pursue their career in genetic engineering but still, a huge mass of the biotech graduate & postgraduate crowd are unaware of this field due to lack of information or proper guidance students have to look for some other option to choose it as their career path. This article provides an insight on Genetic engineering career scope, Job prospects, salary, and companies. Genetic engineering involves organisms manipulation of genes using biotechnology. In recent years there is a demand in genetics as a career due to the development of improved medicine and wellness therapies. Genetic engineering is a research-oriented

field. It has a wide scope in agriculture, medicine, and industries. To be a genetic engineer a strong understanding of scientific methods, critical thinking, analytical, mathematical, problem-solving skills and the ability to use graphics, photoimaging, computer-aided design (CAD), laboratory equipment, software such as PERL, Python are required. Courses in Genetic Engineering Genetics field is very vast – it comprises of population, ecological, human, conservation, medical, classical, quantitative, molecular and immunogenetics. There are several undergraduate and postgraduate courses available for students such as

bachelor, masters as well as a doctoral degree in this field. In order to get admission for Bachelor courses, the student should have Physics, Biology, and Chemistry at the senior secondary level. Some of the courses in this field are: Bachelor of Science • Genetics (B.Sc Genetics), • Honors in Genetics (B.Sc (Hons.) Genetics) Master of Science • Genetics (M.Sc Genetics), • Honors in Genetics (M.Sc

(Hons.) Genetics) Applied Genetics Human Genetics Biomedical Genetics Molecular Biology and Human Genetics • Master of Philosophy (M. Phill Genetics) • Microbial Genetics and Bioinformatics • Stem cell and Tissue Engineering • • • •

Doctoral of Philosophy (Ph.D.) • Genetics • Human genetics • Molecular and Human Genetics Next Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

• Genetic engineering • Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Some colleges /universities conduct an aptitude test for admission in bachelors or master degree course and give admission in genetic courses on the basis of merit list of the qualifying examination. For example, AIEEE, JEE-IIT GATE/JAM are the exams for admission in these courses. Some of the colleges that offer above-mentioned courses are: • University of Delhi • Maharshi Dayanand University – MDU • Bharathiar University, Coimbatore • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) • SRM University • Banaras Hindu University • Ch. Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University • Acharya Nagarjuna University • Punjab Agricultural University • Guru Nanak Dev University • Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University • Osmania University • Manipal University • University of Kolkata You can also do your graduation in biotechnology and specialization in genetic engineering. If you are planning to study abroad than your GPA, GRE/TOEFL scores and research projects are very important. The projects or summer internship from prestigious organizations such as IISC, TIFR, etc. will increase your research skills and also help in you to obtain scholarships for higher studies (Masters or Ph.D.) from abroad. Genetic Engineering Career Scope & Job Prospects Career scope in the genetic engineering field is enormous. It is a rapidly developing field in India as there is a need for genetically modified crops to fulfill the demands of a growing population and also due to the availability of limited resources. Therefore, grants, funding, and development of institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) for genetic engineering have been established by the Indian government. In biomedical, dairy, agriculture industry and forensic labs there is a wide scope for students who want to pursue their career in genetic engineering. Not only

in India, but much more scope is also and M.Sc. If you qualify these exams, there in countries like Europe, Cana- you will be eligible for lectureship. da, especially the USA, and the UK. You can pursue a Ph.D. or join educational institutes or universities as The employment areas where you assistant professor or lecturer. can work after studying genetic course are: Agriculture & Food Industry Research Undergraduate or postgraduate (M. tech /M.Sc) degree or specialization in genetic engineering can work as a research assistant in government or private labs or can work in biotech and pharmaceutical companies. The work of a genetic engineer is to isolate and alter the genetic material of an organism and transplant or splice it to another. The research assistant has to assist the scientists in the lab and perform duties such as preparation of cultures of microorganisms, operate laboratory equipment, preparing samples for testing, maintain laboratory standards, process development, analyses and reporting data. You can qualify CSIR/UGC NET or Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) exam and work as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) in research labs as well. Ph.D. candidates can work as join R&D section in biotech companies. They can work as a research scientist, can do postdoctoral training. In India, some of the genetic engineering research centers are: • International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi, • The Institute of Genomic and Integrative Biology (IGIB), Delhi. • Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bangalore, • National Institute of Immunology (NII), Delhi, • Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram. • Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai • Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, • IIT Biotechnology departments. • Bcs-Insilico Biology, Lucknow Assistant Professor

The geneticist has a major role to play in agriculture and food industry. The scientists work by manipulating plants genes, forming new varieties with improved quality as well as quantity, biopesticide production, and nutraceutical development. The scientists also work on animal breeding to get a better variety for meat and milk production.

to cancer, DNA samples, unborn defects, reproduction, and cell growth. Genetic profiling is also very popular nowadays, as people want to get access to any future diseases such as diabetes, cancer, etc. or complications so that they can change their lifestyle to prevent such condition. Patience, perseverance and good communication skills are required in order to be successful in the job. All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Tata Memorial Centre, Apollo hospitals, DNA Labs India are the places where you can find the opportunity to work. Scientist in Forensic Lab

Indian Agricultural Research Institute is a national institute for agricultural research and education, ICAR-National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases, National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, etc. where you can perform research.

There is a rapid increase in crime and parental issues within the past few years. There is a lot of demand for genetic engineers in the forensic department. You have to work with the law enforcement firms where you need to identify and analyze evidence from crime scenes. The nature of work Genetic Counsellors involves analyses of samples such as DNA, skin, blood, etc. and generating Improvements in healthcare, clini- data which will help in the identificacal diagnostics, medicine, gene-based tion of the culprit of the crime. therapies, wellness treatment have increased demand for genetic coun- Salary selors. It is estimated to be raised in the coming years as well. The role It is quite obvious that when you are of a genetic counselor is to advise or fresher you are not being paid much as counsel patients, new parents on ge- it happens in other fields as well but netic test results. The counselors have as you gain experience in this field, to provide genetic services to patients there are very good salary packages and their families regarding the risk for you. The salary package depends or occurrence of diseases such as can- on a number of factors, like the field cer (Pedigree analysis), producing of specialization, type of job, whether reports, etc. There are certain require- it is government or private and also ments to become a genetic counselor job position as well as location. The under Board of genetic counseling in institute from which the course has India. been completed, skills, knowledge, experience, position and the company An accredited genetic counseling you are associated with also matter. course or formal training (at least oneyear duration) is required from India Salary Range Provided in Genetic or equivalent, from any other country Engineering field : to become a genetic counselor. Also, postgraduate courses in medicine, life • Candidate in jobs or training pescience, genetics, sociology, psycholriod ranges from 2-2.8 Lakh per ogy for at least a two-year duration annum and clinical counseling experience • For research associate, it ranges is required. Ph.D. or master degree from 3.5 lakh to 5 lakh per year. in human genetics or working expe- • Junior scientists vary from 6-9 rience in genetics or genomics lab lakh per annum for more than 3 years, providing test • Whereas for a senior scientist, result related counseling to patients it varies between 15-16 lakh per ie needed to become a genetic counannum in private companies. selor. The genetic counselors have a very lucrative salary as well. Not only in India but in foreign also if you are looking for a career the avHospitals/Genetic Diagnostic laboratories

If you have an interest in academics and want to pursue your career in teaching, you can give Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) UGC NET examinations after Geneticist role is very important in completing your B.Tech (B.Tech final the scientific and medical field. It year exam students are also eligible) has a critical role in research related

Next Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

erage annual base salary is $159,339 to $194,895 of geneticists in the USA. For example, a doctoral researcher gets a package of more than 22 lakh per annum (i.e. € 29,060/ year) whereas for postdoctoral researchers more than 50 Lakh per annum (€50,525/ year). As the experience in this field increases, the salary packages offered in both private and government sector increases. Companies Hiring There are various companies in India who hire candidates in this field. Some of the companies and there are of work are: • Panacea Biotech in New Delhi works on recombinant genes. • Boston biological in Bangalore works in DNA vaccines for poultry and human diseases. • Wockhardt in Mumbai manufactures and markets recombinant products such as vaccines, hepatitis, erythropoietin, recombinant insulin named wosulin.

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

works to create recombinant bigalore based company who is • Cadila pharmaceuticals at Ahtaking tissue engineering to the medabad, work on recombinant ogenerics in oncology, nephrology, cardiovascular and gynecolnext level in India. It has made vaccines, anticancer biotheraIndia’s first 3D printed artificial ogy. peutics, and diagnostics using human liver tissue. • Datar Cancer Genetics Limited recombinant antigens. is situated in Nashik, Maharash- • Swagene, a Chennai based com• Bharat Biotech International in pany, is India’s first lab who is Hyderabad manufactures human tra work in molecular genetics. working on personalized medivaccines, pharmaceuticals, and cine especially working on canIn the past few years, many genetcancer therapeutics. cers their detection and therapy. • Claris Lifesciences in Ah- ic engineering based companies have They have launched a personalmedabad works on recombinant been established. ized medicine for children suftechnology and monoclonal antifering from blood cancer. bodies technology. • Stempeutics is a Bangalore • Intas Biopharmaceuticals at Ahbased leading stem cell company • By now you must be having a brief knowledge on Genetic Endevelops stem cell-based medicmedabad, work on recombinant inal products. It has developed gineering CareerGenetics has DNA technology, developed rea lot of opportunities howevIndia’s first allogeneic stem cell combinant human granulocyte therapy. er your achievements depends colony-stimulating factor. upon your interpersonal skills, • Invitrogen in Bangalore is a • Maymygenome, in Hyderabad, is a genomic and a molecular interest and what you aim to bemanufacturer and distributor of come. recombinant proteins and pepdiagnostic company which monitors the risk of cardiac and brain tides. diseases. Also, perform DNA- So, dear students, aim high, work • LG Life Sciences India in Delbased test to assess the risk of hard and remember everything is poshi works on recombinant DNA cancer, lifestyle diseases such sible if you believe. pharmaceuticals including recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine, as obesity, diabetes, newborn screening, health prediction and human erythropoietin, and inferalso guide for suitable therapy. tility drugs. • Emcure Pharmaceuticals in Pune • Pandorum technologies is a Ban-

Biophysics: Introduction, Eligibility, Career Scope, Companies Hiring Science is divided into different disciplines – Biology, Physics, Chemistry, etc. All these are again incomplete without the contribution of mathematics. A SEPARATE STUDY OF NATURE AND NATURAL PHENOMENON THROUGH SPECIFIED FIELDS OF BIOLOGY, PHYSICS, MATHEMATICS, AND CHEMISTRY GAVE US A CERTAIN IDEA ABOUT THEM. By Dr. Sunita Adak

But with time it was realized to understand the real world, we need to combine all the knowledge of different fields to get a unified view. Only a unified view can bring us closer to the real world. This led to the development of many multidisciplinary as well as an interdisciplinary field of studies, like astrophysics, biophysics, physical chemistry, biochemistry, science. All these together are utilized Research in this aspect widened the astrobiology, biomechanics, biopsy- to define the biological systems, phe- view of biology by utilizing physics chology, etc. to explain the mechanics of life. This nomena, and functioning. new approach seeks to explain the Biophysics or biological physics The concept of biophysics might life at the molecular level – molecular combines physics with biology. It is have been around many centuries and composition of biomolecules, cells, an interdisciplinary field of science can be traced back as early as ancient organization, and hierarchy, how they which is a congruence of many other Romans and Greeks. Discovery of from molecules to cells to tissues to disciplines. Major contributing dis- radioactive elements and inventions organs to organ system to organism ciplines are physics, mathematics, related to those elements like nucle- work. chemistry, engineering, pharmacolo- ar weapons shifted focus to the efgy, material sciences, and computer fect of radiation on living organisms. Life At The Molecular Level

Living organisms are comprised of basic elements like Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Sulphur, Phosphorous, etc. All these combine in a different manner to give rise to the basic biomolecules – proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. They help to create the unit of life the cell. Though diverse in their Next Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

shape, size, composition, and properties, they function as the building blocks of life creating cells, tissues, organs, organ systems and finally the entire organism. The major functions allocated to basic macromolecules are as follows: 1. Nucleic acids store the information required for the cell functioning are known as genetic material. 2. Lipids create the membranous boundaries which help to compartmentalize the cell from the rest of the surrounding and even creates sub-compartments inside the cell which help in work distribution. 3. Carbohydrates used as energy source and storage and are part of many structural and functional components of the cell in association with proteins or lipids. 4. Proteins are the working machinery of cells in the form of enzymes and take part as a major structural component.

macromolecules like DNA, RNA and proteins have been elucidated till date. Techniques of purification, characterization, sequencing, and crystallization has helped in this process. Presently innumerable entries are available for DNA, RNA, and protein sequences from varieties of living organisms. These entries have been utilized for the structural analysis, sequence matching, development of gene maps, and evolution and phylogenetics. Species relatedness, developmental hierarchy, and diversification can be studied extensively.

2. Modelling – Biophysics also deals with computation, using which models can be developed for DNA, RNA, protein, and viruses, etc. This approach helps in better visualization of the desired object and understanding the working process. A complete understanding is essential for further manipulation of structure and prediction of the consequences. Thus, gives an in-depth understanding of the effect of mutations, DNA damage or any other abnormality due to conditions All these macromolecules interact like disease or cancer. Moreover, the among each other and with other mol- foremost application of modeling so ecules, ions for the sustenance of life. far has been done in drug designing The underlying mechanisms involved and finding new drug targets. in a molecular association like association and dissociation kinetics, ener- 3. Molecules Dynamics – Molecgetics, thermodynamics, and molecular dynamics can also be studied ular dynamics, special organization, under biophysics. This has been acstability, ionization, wave-particle complished by using fluorescent tags interaction, etc. can be studied by bi- which can bind to specific target inophysics. Using diversified tools and side or outside the cells. The fluoresanalytical methods, the intricacies of cence can be monitored using specbiological functions at cellular can be troscopy or microscopy techniques explained in terms of structure, func- and thus the movement of molecules tion, and properties of specific mole- could be recorded. It has immense cules. Even it is possible to develop scope in predicting the working matools for detection, and manipulation chinery of cells like the dynamics of of a single molecule. the plasma membrane during endocytosis, exocytosis, signaling, transBiophysics can also integrate the portation, assembly, and disassembly cellular working mechanism at the of cytoskeleton during the cell cycle, higher levels of organ and organism, sudden rise and fall of internal signals helping to unravel the body’s func- in form of ions, cAMP etc. and even tioning. These functions can be vis- outside the cell movement of secreualized using different biophysical tory signals viz. hormones from one techniques and even modeled. Mod- cell to another. elling and simulation are successfully used for prediction and therapeu- 4. Neuroscience – Another active tics. Moreover, the biophysical study area where biophysics has been exof environment and organisms also tensively used is in understanding sheds light on the ecological interac- the nervous system. Nowadays fations around us on earth. mous Deep learning in computation is based on Neural Networks – single Applications of Biophysics layer, multilayer – an algorithm which is modeled based on the human brain. Being an interdisciplinary science, it The neural network recognizes patcan be applied in multiple domains. terns by interpretation of sensory data Some of them have been mentioned through a kind of machine perception below: viz. labeling or clustering raw input. Likewise, to understand the working 1. Structure and Data Analysis of the brain and nervous system dur– The structure of many biological ing processing of different sensory

information like visual, auditory, etc. ics, Biochemistry, and Computational models have been developed using Chemistry, Biophysics, Medicine and neural networks. Neuroscience, Pharmacology, etc. Higher education at Ph.D./PDF level 5. Nanotechnology and Biomed- involves research in diversified fields ical engineering – The critical un- viz. Nanotechnology, Bioengineering, derstanding of mechanics of an organ Systems Biology, Agrophysics, etc. and its supportive tissues helps in the development of biomimetics. The Following courses are available: detailed knowledge and simulations provide an extra edge to design ap- 1. B.Sc in Biophysics – Bachelor of propriate biomaterials and to improve Science in Biophysics is a three years upon it which can replace the dam- course. The eligibility criteria include aged tissues or organs like prosthetic basic 10+2 with Biology, Physics, limbs. Even the development of bet- Chemistry and Mathematics compulter nanomaterials as a drug delivery sory. system is also possible through biophysical studies. 2. M.Sc in Biophysics – Master of Science in Biophysics is a two years 6. Imaging – Development of so- course. Eligibility for Master degree phisticated imaging techniques like includes Bachelors in Physics, BioloCT scans, MRI, US, and PET scans gy with mathematics in 10+2, Bioinhave been possible by biophysical formatics, Chemistry, Biotechnology, studies. These types of imaging and etc. Many institutes conduct entrance diagnostic tools are essential for ef- exams for admission; hence clearance ficient, precise, rapid and safe diag- of admission test is also mandatory. nosis and monitoring of organs and bioprocesses. 3. M.Phil in Biophysics – Master of Philosophy in Biophysics is a two 7. Medical Therapeutics - Bio- years course. Candidate interested physicist also work towards research need to have Post Graduation in releand development of therapeutic de- vant subject or equivalent and need to vices, which can be successfully uti- clear institutional entrances. lized to treat certain conditions. Some of such devices and techniques so far 4. P.hD in Biophysics – Doctor of developed and being utilized include Philosophy in Biophysics is a rea pacemaker, stents, cardiac defi- search-based course with variable brillators, artificial joints – knee and duration based on the institute. Canhip, dialysis, electrotherapy, radiation didate interested need to have Post therapy, etc. Graduation in relevant subject or equivalent and need to clear institu8. Ecosystem study – Biophysics tional entrances. also studies life from a larger view of Apart from these courses many certienvironment and population, commu- fication and Diploma courses are also nity, so considering both aspects of available of various duration and eliabiotic and biotic factors. A detailed gibility. study of all these along with model development is essential for under- Biophysics Career Scope & Opstanding the ecosystem, its variations portunities and complexities, dynamics, conservation, and management. Biophysicists can solve biological and physical problems pertaining to daily life. As the research is carried Courses Offered in Biophysics & out at different biomolecular, organThe Eligibility Criteria ism and environment levels, it has tremendous career opportunities. Many colleges/universities in India offer academic courses in Biophys- Some of the job profiles available ics in India. Some of them are – All are as follows: India Institute of Medical Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Manipal 1. Medical/Clinical Biophysicist – University, University of Mumbai, Working in the field of mainly theraUniversity of Madras, University of peutics and diagnosis. Need skills of Kalyani, and so on. From a basic de- a variety of analytical, computer-aidgree to higher advanced level of de- ed and bioengineering techniques in gree is available. The course of Biophysics mainly comprises of subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Physiology, Computer science, Molecular and Structural biology, Bioinformatics, BiomechanNext Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

their work such as x-ray imaging, tomography, ultrasound, radiotherapy, radiology, lasers, and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. Also work as professionals developing new diagnostic tests, drug delivery systems, and drug designing. 2. Nutritional Biophysicist – Working in the field of food and nutrition. Need skills of food analysis of different nutritional content, adulterants, toxins, product processing, quality control and analysis, research and development of products. Also, monitor the effect of nutrition on the body and bioprocesses. 3. Applied Biophysicist – Work in projects regarding basic and applied research. Associated with checking the effect of substances like hormones, drugs etc. on biological processes.

4. Researcher/ Scientist – Working in different institutes- laboratories, research institutes, universities, Pharmaceutical companies, Hospitals, etc. Investigating biophysical aspects of biomolecules, drugs, etc., their effect on the living organisms and their modification for improvement or correction. 5. Professor/Lecturer/Teacher – Work as a teacher of Biophysics in different institutes, colleges and universities. Other work fields as bioinformaticist, programmer and computational biophysicist involved in database compilation, computer model development for viruses or new protein structures to elucidate their function. Also have career scope as engineers targeting environmental problems such as pollution control, waste treatment, biofuel production, etc. Other

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

job opportunities include work in in- Abbott Laboratories, Bristol-Myers tellectual property, writers and edi- Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim India Pvt Ltd, Baxter, Boston Scientific, tors, and legislative advisers. CPA Global, Thermofisher, Merck Institutes & Companies Hiring In and Pfizer also hire Biophysicist in the capacity of scientists, engineers, Biophysics Field research fellows, analysts, designers, Biophysicist gets a job as Profes- programmers, patient specialists and sor, Associate Professor and Assis- directors. tant Professor in Universities and Institutes like University of Madras, Biophysics has immense scope in toBanaras Hindu University, Indian In- day’s world. With the increase in the stitutes of Technology, and National institutes offering courses for study Institute of Mental Health & Neuro and research, many are opting for it Sciences. Research jobs as a Junior and there has been a significant rise in Research Fellow, Senior Research its application in different sectors. As Fellow, Research Associate, Scientif- there are so many related fields of apic officers, etc. also available in many plication, a biophysicist with a wide research institutes as Indian Institutes breadth of training, find a wide range of Technology, Raman Research In- of career open to them. This is the upstitute and National Institute of Men- coming field which will bear many successes and help in human progress tal Health & Neuro Sciences. in a sustainable manner. Companies like AstraZeneca Pharma India Ltd, Johnson & Johnson,

Cancer Biology Research – Top Cancer Research Institutes Where You Can Apply If your inspiration is to become a researcher with a Ph.D. degree specialized in Cancer Research and you possess the urge to work towards the development of treatment & cure for this silent killer then this article is a must read for you. CHANGES IN CANCER RESEARCH FIELD HAPPEN BRISKLY, THEREFORE, SO AS TO REMAIN CONTEMPORANEOUS YOU MUST STAY CURIOUS AND DEDICATED BY BEING UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST ADVANCEMENTS IN CANCER RESEARCH BOTH LOCALLY & GLOBALLY. By Dr. Ankita Trivedi

In 2018 alone 9.6 million deaths occurred due to cancer. It is estimated that by 2030 the cancer death toll will hit a scary number of 23.6 million. We might not have found a way yet to beat cancer, however, as per statistical data the number of researchers stepping into the Cancer research sector to accelerate the quest of developing a cancer cure, has increased drastically over a period of past 5 years. While the scientific community is on its toes to find “The Cancer Cure”, a lot of advancements have been made. It is a high profile sector of research as the ultimate goal of learning facts about Cancer is to create guarded and constructive methods to diagnose, detect, treat and prevent cancer. The finer we understand this disease, the

more progress we can make toward discoveries based on their research declining the prodigious human and results in a wide array of disciplines that are considered as a major breakeconomic trolls of CANCER. through in identification, screening, “CANCER Research Transforms diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. And Saves Life” Broad Categories of Cancer ReAdvanced research in the field of search cancer has helped us gather immeasurable knowledge about the biologi- Cancer research is basically fragcal processes involved in the onset of mented into assorted broad categories a malignant tumor. All those inven- : tions have to lead to highly effective and earmarked treatments as well as Basic Research: Includes the reprohibition strategies. Over the dec- search of various cellular as well as ades, Scientists have made numerous molecular variations occurring natu-

rally or throughout the development of a disease. Also cited as preclinical or lab research. Translational Research: It recounts an approach that accelerates the execution of several discoveries and inventions conducted in the laboratory to clinical practice. Also cited as operating advances from bench to bedside.

Next Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Clinical Research: It includes the implementation of treatments and procedures in patients. The research team conducts clinical trials where they try to study a group of patients, a particular patient and employ samples from humans like blood or any tissue samples to know details about the disease. They are interested to know how the healthy body works and responds to therapy. Population Research: Most loved area of research. It includes the study of various causes and patterns of Cancer as well as their risk evaluation. Epidemiologists, the population scientists engage themselves in studying and identifying the patterns, causes, and effects of health & diseases in defined groups. It is highly symbiotic and can stretch the spectrum from basic research to clinical research. Where To Apply For Cancer Research? If you have that desire to become a researcher and want to serve the people in need of care and assistance, Cancer Research is the best sector for you to grow and make a career in. The foremost question which comes to your mind to start a career in cancer research is – Where to apply? How to apply? What are the Future prospects? No need to Fret at all! You can get all your answers here. Depending upon the abilities and qualifications, numerous Cancer Institutes have been established that admit young scholars with sharp minds. According to the eligibility criteria of all these institutes, you can apply for research as per your suitability. Let’s look at some of the most renowned Cancer Research Institutes where you can apply for research! 1. Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Navi Mumbai The futuristic Research & Development satellite of the Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), ACTREC functions as a national center for medical care, research and enlightenment in cancer. TMC also includes Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), the largest cancer hospital in Asia under its patronage. ACTREC embrace 2 arms- one for basic research and the second one for clinical research. As discussed above, you can choose among numerous broad categories of cancer research. Research explorations at both the arms of ACTREC focus on molecular

operations accountable for causation of crucial human cancers relevant to India. It is expected that ACTREC will play a significant role in drug development and emerging therapies for treatment and prevention of cancer in the future.

like CSIR, UGC, DBT, etc.

Multiple Job openings are posted by ACTREC which can be located here. ACTREC very frequently hires M.sc /Ph.D. Biotech & Life Science Candidates for positions like Scientific Officer, Scientific Assistant, Research One can be a part of Cancer Re- Fellow, and many other posts. search at ACTREC by obtaining a Ph.D. degree in Life Sciences provid- For More Details Visit – http://www. ed by Homi Bhabha National Institute actrec.gov.in/ (HBNI), a Deemed University established by the Department of Atomic 2. All India Institute of Medical Energy. The Research Scholars at Sciences, New Delhi ATREC handles basic and translational research in Cancer Biology AIIMS is an autonomous institution where they focus on specific research of national importance and awards its topics such as Cell proliferation, dif- own medical degrees and other acaferentiation, apoptosis, metastasis, demic distinctions. The Cancer Retumor immunology, carcinogenesis, search is carried out at Institute Rotary molecular imaging, stem cell biol- Cancer Hospital (Dr. B.R.A. Institute ogy, biophysics, structural biology, Rotary Cancer Hospital). It is among bioinformatics, genomics, genetics & the best centers in the country to have epigenetics. Applications are invited entrenched hematopoietic stem cell, early in the year (February/March) bone marrow transplant program, through the website by candidates all around 250 or even more transplants across India. The final selection de- have been already implemented. pends on the student’s performance in There are about 8 departments under Written Examination followed by an this Institute, out of which Cancer interview. Research is basically carried out in the Department of Medical OncoloEducational Qualifications: gy. This department has been using modern techniques including FISH • M.Sc. (Bioinformatics/ Applied and PCR to prophesy cancer patients. Biology/ Biochemistry/ Bio- It has been using screening programs technology/ Biophysics/ Botany/ to detect cancer at a very early stage, Microbiology/ Life Sciences/ apart from this a preventive oncoloMolecular Biology/ Zoology or gy program has also been initiated. related Biological Sciences) Department excels in teaching, clin• M.Tech. ( Biotechnology / Bio- ical and research related activities. informatics ) MO department is managing DM and • M.V.Sc. or M.Pharm. Degree Ph.D. program. obtained from a recognized organization with 60 % or more If you wish to apply for Cancer Remarks. search in AIIMS, you have to apply • Final Year candidates are also for the Doctorate program here. For eligible. entry in this highly prestigious insti• Candidates with a post-graduate tute, you need to crack the AIIMS degree of one year are not eligi- Ph.D. Entrance Exam conducted by ble. AIIMS itself twice in a year -Jan & July Session. Fellowships : Educational Qualifications : Candidates qualifying written examination are called for an interview and • Masters Degree (M.Sc, M.Tech. final admissions are dependent on the & BAMS) -2 years course by InHBNI eligibility criteria and other redian Universities or equivalent quirements such as Medical Examiin the subject as per requirement. nation. You can avail Junior Research • Candidates should have at least Fellowship, once you are selected by 60% or more marks in their last ACTERC for Cancer Research. JRF’s qualifying examination. earns a stipend of Rs.25,000 +30 % • Candidates having Masters deHRA per month as applicable. This gree through correspondence are fellowship is tenable for a period of 2 not eligible. years, can be extended for a further 2 years (not more than that) on an annu- Fellowships : al renewal basis which is considered on your performance of the previous Candidates must have qualified at year. You can also avail external fel- least one of the following examinalowships if secured from agencies tions in the last 2 years – Joint CSIR-

UGC NET for JRF, ICMR-JRF/SRF, CSIR-SRF, DST-JRF/SRF, DBT-JRF/ SRF, UGC-JRF/SRF, NBHM screening test, GATE, INSPIRE fellowship. Selected candidates through entrance examination with one of the aforesaid fellowships can easily pursue their doctorate degree from AIIMS. For further details visit the link www.aiimsexams.org 3. Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amalangar, Trichur ACRC is an integral part of Amala Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS), situated in the valley of Vilangan Hills, 8KM from Thrissur town. The Centre focussed to accept scientific research in Cancer and other associated branches of medical sciences including basic as well as applied fields. This research center offers various courses for research aspirants like Ph.D. Programme, M.Sc./M. Pharm./M.Tech/M.D. Dissertation Work and Summer Training Programmes. Amala Cancer Research Centre is acknowledged by the University of Calicut and Mahatma Gandhi University for the Ph.D. course program. In addition to the Ph.D. program, ACRC enrolls post-graduate students for their dissertation and project works in Cancer-related research. Students are enrolled from numerous Universities and Colleges. Special training programs are also organized by ACRC to help students in understanding the concepts and values of Experimental Biology. It conducts a major training program for postgraduate students from different institutions annually. Numerous projects are carried out by eminent scientists of this institute which are funded by various prestigious government organizations like CSIR, UGC, DBT. If you wish to carry out your research in Cancer from the Institute that is only engaged in Cancer study, nothing else ! ACRC is one of the perfect places where you can land safely without a second thought. Educational Qualifications : • Master’s Degree in any branch of Life Sciences with at least 60% marks • Candidate should have a valid fellowship from any of the following agencies – UGC, CSIR,

Next Page>>>>

CAREER ADVICE

DST-INSPIRE, ICMR, DBT, KSCSTE • Ph.D. entrance examination conducted by the University of Calicut qualified candidates may also be considered for enrollment in Ph.D. Programme for Cancer Research. Fellowships: Candidates having aforesaid valid fellowship are admitted for various course work at ACRC. Candidates can avail the fellowship as per the rules and regulations of that respective funding agency. For further details, visit http:// amalacrc.org/ 4. Centre for Cancer Epidemiology, Maharashtra CCE is the new cancer research center established by Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai. It is one of the top-ranking tertiary cancer research centers as well as treatment centers in South Asia. The CCE is equipped with the finest amenities for data storage, high-speed servers, high throughput technologies and cold storage of biological samples. It also has automated biobanks for storage of around 3 million biological samples. This institute’s main objective is to develop Nationally and Internationally acknowledged as well as funded inter-disciplinary research programs in epidemiology with prominence on assessing cancer Burden, the pervasiveness of threat factors, recognizing threat factors related to genetics and lifestyle and to study about these threat factors for disease advancement. CCE operates Molecular Epidemiology research that fosters collaborative research, in addition, CCE has also developed an Education and Training program in Epidemiology that encompasses Masters and Doctorate degree. Centre for Cancer Epidemiology has certain set Goals such as to build a strategy to identify Cancer Causation and Prevention, build capabilities to conduct Population genetics studies. Finally, CCE focuses on the blossoming of manpower for Cancer observation, Epidemiology, and Molecular Epidemiological studies. This Cancer Centre offers numerous education and training courses. CCE enrolls Ph.D. students in the field of Epidemiology from a deemed University- Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), established by the Department of Atomic energy. Research Scholars handles research in the field of Epidemiology counting Cancer

Registration, Molecular Epidemiology, Cancer Control, and Prevention. To get admitted in the Doctoral program of CCE, applicants have to apply through the website of the institute [http://www.tmc.gov.in] early in the month of May/June of every year. It is open for all the candidates all across India. The entrance examination is being conducted by CCE for shortlisting the candidates based on their performance in that particular examination followed by an interview. An Orientation Course is available for students seeking admission to the Doctoral program. A core training course of HBNI is conducted for all JRFs at CCE, before initiating the Ph.D. research or thesis work. This is implemented just to expose the students to various facets of Cancer Epidemiology, Public Health, and Statistics. All JRFs are examined through a series of written tests, seminar presentations and home assignments in which they have to achieve at least 60% marks. Educational Qualifications Required: • M.Sc. (Applied Biology/ Biochemistry/Life Sciences/ Molecular Biology/ Biophysics / Biotechnology / Botany /Bioinformatics / Microbiology / / Zoology or related Biological Sciences ) • M.Tech. ( Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics); M.Pharm. Or M.V.Sc. from any acknowledged University, with at least 60% aggregate marks. • Candidates whose results are awaited may also apply • Candidates having only one year of post-graduate degree are not eligible to apply • Candidates with valid Junior Research Fellowships from recognized funding agencies like CSIR/UGC/DBT are called for direct interview at CCE, these candidates are also requested to apply online. Fellowships : At CCE, Junior Research fellows will receive a fellowship of Rs.25,000 + 30% HRA and Senior Research Fellows gets Rs.28,000 + 30% HRA per month as applicable. This is the stipend provided by the institute to the Research Scholars. Candidates having valid fellowships from any external agencies can avail the same. The JRF is viable for 2 years, which can be further extended to a maximum of 2 years depending on the progress of

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

students during the previous years. For More Details Visit – http://tmcepi.gov.in/ If we talk about Careers in cancer Research now, we have many paths to choose. Cancer Research has progressed with the times, adopting new technologies enabling scientists to chase varied research goals than ever. Researchers involved in Cancer study can find themselves in numerous settings to either industry or academia from addressing vivid questions in the laboratory to testing new vaccines and drugs in the clinic. At the Basic Research point, most of the young scientists will agree and admit that they were mesmerized at the outset to explore fundamental biological questions than to work precisely on Cancer. Moreover, they often notice the importance and suitability of their immense work to understanding the elementary biological processes leading to Cancer. New treatments or let us say new technologies can arise from such conception. If you have a deep and broad knowledge of the related subject with good molecular biology skills and ability to produce new ideas, you are the Right Person for the Cancer Research. Gazing forward, Cancer Research seems set to thrive- distinctly in the translational research arena and the evolution of new salubrious facilities. Coming 10 years is going to be a GOLDEN AGE in Cancer Research. If you desire to be a part of this golden era, do apply in the above mentioned Cancer Institutes and make your career progress exponentially. Apart from the most prestigious Cancer Institutes mentioned above, you can apply in other Cancer Institutes as well. The list for the other Cancer Research Institutes is provided below: • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

& Research Centre, Vasundhara Enclave, New Delhi Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute, Guwahati Dr. Bhubaneswar Borooah Cancer Institute, Guwahati Dr. Rai Memorial Cancer Institute 562, Chennai G.V.N. Cancer Centre, No.16, Kiledar Street, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu. Goa Cancer Society, GM Cancer Hospital & Research Institute, Goa. Indian Rly. Cancer Institute & Research Centre, Varanasi Institute of Cytology & Preventive Oncology, Opposite City Centre, Noida International Cancer Centre, Neyyoor, Tamilnadu International Network for Cancer, Treatment, & Research Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi J.K. Cancer Institute (G.S.V.M. Medical College), Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Jagdish Cancer & Research Centre, Hyderabad. Jawaharlal Nehru Cancer Hospital, & Research Centre, Bhopal Marathwada Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Maharashtra. Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Jaipur Mohan Das Oswal Cancer Treatment & Research Centre, Punjab. Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Hospital & Research Institute, Rohini, Delhi Rajkot Cancer Society, Mr. N.P. Cancer Institute, Gujrat Regional Cancer Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Regional Centre for Cancer Research, Adyar, Chennai. Regional Centre for Cancer Research and Treatment, Cuttack Rotary Cancer Centre, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai The Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute, Ahmedabad

Governments all across the globe have taken a personalized interest in Asian Institute of Oncology, this field and have formulated special S.L.Raheja Hospital, Raheja research cells and funding schemes Hospital Road, Mahim, Mumbai & opportunities via which they aim Bose Institute, Kolkata to promote and invite more young Cancer Institute (WIA), Chennai researchers to join Cancer Research Cancer Treatment & Research field. The increasing competition Centre, Visakhapatnam & dedication to finding a cure for Chittaranjan Cancer Institute, this life taking disease is on its peak Kolkata throughout the world, thus one can Christian Cancer Centre, Andhra foresee a flourishing career throughPradesh out if proper educational degree & Jaslok Hospital & Research Cen- knowledge is attained.Remember – “ tre, Mumbai Dharamshila Cancer Hospital

SCHOLARSHIP

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Wellcome Trust/ DBT India Alliance Early Career Fellowships 2019

he Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance invites applications for its Early Career Fellowships in Biomedical Research. This is a mentored Fellowship programme that provides a unique opportunity for promising postdoctoral researchers to carry out high-quality biomedical research in India towards building an independent research career. Purpose: The Wellcome Trust/DBT India Alliance invites applications for the Early Career Fellowships in Basic Biomedical Research. That is a mentored Fellowship programme which offers a special chance for promising postdoctoral researchers to perform high-quality biomedical research in India towards developing an independent research career. Eligibility: • Applicant must be in the final year of PhD or possess no more than four years of post-PhD research experience from the date of PhD viva to the invited full application submission deadline (tentatively in October 2019 for the present round of competi-

• • •

•

tion); due consideration will be given to justified career breaks The applicant may have/be pursuing PhD in almost any area of science There are no limitations based on age or nationality The applicant does not need to be resident in India while applying, but ought to be aspiring to launch an independent research career in India Applicant must decide on a non-profit host institution in India which can administer the Fellowship for the entire duration (five years) of their award based on India Alliance conditions and policies. The applicant may or may not have a faculty position

Remit: The full spectrum of biomedical science from fundamental molecular and cellular studies through Clinical and Public Health research** Interdisciplinary projects are welcome Provisions: The 5-year Fellowship typically provides:

• Competitive personal support • Generous research funds • Funding to work overseas for up to 2 years and develop global collaborations Essentials on the preliminary application: • Outline (750 words) of a research proposal that seeks to answer an original biomedical research query • A Fellowship Supervisor Who’d guide the applicant in the proposed research and a letter of support to this conclusion; the proposed research is expected to complement and take advantage of the Fellowship Supervisor’s

research interests and expertise • An additional letter of recommendation How to Apply: Preliminary application forms will soon be available from 23 July 2019 (9 AM IST) at the India Alliance online application System (IASys) The preliminary application deadline is 2 PM IST on 20 August 2019. Please see our site for additional details on eligibility, remit, provisions, along with the application procedure. Queries can be addressed to info@indiaalliance.org

Janaki Ammal – National Women Bioscientist Award 2019

he official notification for the Janaki Ammal National Women Bioscientist Award 2019 has been released. Cash Prizes of Rs. 5 lakh and Rs. 1 Lakh available. Research Grants of Rs. 5 Lakh also available. Interested and eligible candidates can check out the awards available in 2 categories and apply for the same below: Goal: To recognize outstanding contributions of women scientists in both basic and applied research in the areas of Biosciences and Biotechnology including agricultural, environmental and biomedical sciences with potential for application/product and technology development. Nature of the Award:

National Women Bioscientist Award (Senior Category) (one) The National Women Bioscientist Award (Senior Category) is given to senior women scientist for lifetime contributions, that have done outstanding research in the nation and has applied the results for the benefit of students and society. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 5.00 lakh together with citation along with a gold medal. National Women Bioscientist Award (Young Category) (Two) The National Women Bioscientists Award (Young Category) is awarded for outstanding contributions of women scientists under 45 years old in basic and applied research in the fields of biosciences and biotechnology including agricultural, envi-

ronmental and biomedical sciences together with the potential for application/product and technology development. Contributions made during the past five years would be the main consideration. The award carries a cash prize of Rs 1.00 lakh with citation plus a gold medal and Research Grant of Rs 5.00 lakh per annum for a period of five years.

Eligibility: i) Any Citizen of India who’s engaged in basic and applied research in the areas of biosciences and biotechnology in the nation. The work for which nomination is made must

Next Page>>>>

SCHOLARSHIP

have been completed in Indian insti- and not for age and consequently, tutes and acknowledged in the publi- there’s absolutely no age limitation. cations. For the young category, the candidate must be below 45 years of age accordii) For Senior Category Award: ing to the closing date of nomination Citizens of India must have made submission i.e. 31.8.2019. lifetime significant and outstanding contribution in research in the fields Nominations: of Biosciences/Biotechnology and has applied the results for the benefit Women scientists working in the of students and society and the work Region of biosciences/biotechnoloshould have been done completely in gy can be nominated by members of the SAC(O), DBT; Vice-Chancellors India. of Universities/ Deemed Universiiii) For Young Category Award: ties; Chairman, UGC; DGs of CSIR, Citizens of India must have made an ICAR, ICMR, DRDO; Directors of outstanding and significant contribu- National Research Laboratories etc; tion in the fields of Biosciences/Bio- Presidents of approved scientific sotechnology during the last five years cieties and academies of All India Naand the work should have been done ture; Secretaries of S&T Departments / Ministries like DST, DBT, DSIR, entirely in India. MES, MOEF, Atomic Energy, Deiv) The senior category award is for partment of Space, New and Renewexcellence in research (and not for able Energy, Commerce, Industry, governance/promotion of Science) Health & Family Welfare and Human

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Resource Development and Advisor/ the Department of Biotechnology acMember (Science) Niti Aayog. Nomi- cording to Govt. of India rules. nations will need to be sent in the preHow to Apply: scribed proforma (Annexure). Nomination from individuals sponsoring their own names won’t be considered. Selection: The selection of candidates for the award will be made on the basis of recommendations of a Selection Committee. Just nominations complete in all respects as per proforma will be considered. Presentation of these awards: The awardees will receive the awards at a formal function organized by DBT. Payment of TA/DA:

Nominations in the prescribed proforma ought to be submitted through online DBT portal (ePromis) (url: http://www.dbtepromis.nic.in) on or before August 31st, 2019. 3 hard copies of the application Together with requisite documents must be sent to Dr. Kakali Dey Dasgupta, Scientist”E”, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Room No.814, 8th Floor, Block-2, CGO Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi -110003. For details of this award, nomination proforma and steps for online submission of nomination please log on to DBT site (www.dbtindia.gov.in)

TA/DA to the awardees for attending Last Date of Submission of Nomithe award ceremony will be paid by nation: 31st August 2019

ICGEB Life Sciences International Fellowship Programme (IFP)

he notification for the ICGEB-DIC-MOST International Fellowship Programme which is a life sciences short term program has been announced. Interested candidates can check out all of the details on the scheme, the overview, application details, financial stability, timelines and all of the important links are given below: The ICGEB-DIC-MOST International Fellowship Program (IFP) provides competitive Short-term Fellowships in Life Sciences to highly motivated scientists from the eligible ICGEB Member States wishing to pursue postgraduate research in China. The Program encourages the mobility of researchers to prestigious Chinese labs for a period of 6 or 12 months, to benefit from the expertise and technologies available in the receiving laboratories. Program scope The International Fellowship Program (IFP) is a new initiative established by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) and the Department of International Cooperation of the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology (DIC-MOST). The IFP Call is managed by the China National Center for Biotechnology Development (CNCBD) together with the aid

of the ICGEB. The IFP is targeted at promoting the training of scientists and researchers from developing nations and emerging economies, especially in Asia, Africa and nations engaged in the Belt and Road initiatives. The Program supports short term fellowships of scientists from qualified ICGEB Member States in these regions as listed below (see Eligibility section) to prestigious Chinese labs as a means of improving skill development, obtaining specific hands-on training in technology available in the receiving lab and increasing bilateral cooperation in science and technology between China and the applicable ICGEB Member State. The listing of Chinese Partnering Institutes such as a short description of hosting Research Groups is available at: IFP — Partnering Institutes in China. Partnering Institutes in China have now been identified as one of acceptable internationally-oriented high excellent research centres. Every Partnering Institute has signed a Partnership Agreement with the CNCBD outlining obligations towards fellows and scholarship administration. How to apply: As a first step, applicants must contact the Principal Investigators (PI) in the Partnering Institute of their choice

to define together the research project proposal which will be submitted for evaluation. Applications should outline the effect for the fellow’s career, the benefit to the home lab as well as also the suitability of the receiving lab. Proposed projects should reveal clear signs of strong collaborative potential between the originating lab and the Chinese lab of destination. The Partnering Institute will provide the applicant with a”work consent” letter to state its willingness and capacity to host the fellow (both in terms of available lab space and administrative/logistics/insurance obligations undertaken). The”work-consent” declaration ought to be submitted by the applicant as part of her/his application documents. The application is to be completed online in line with the guidelines and application form below by the deadline of 30 September 2019.

Eligibility: According to the rules of the “Young Talented Scientist Program” financed by the Chinese MOST, the Call is open only to nationals of the following countries: • Europe: Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia • Africa: Algeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia, Sudan, Nigeria, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania • Asia: Bangladesh, India, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Viet Nam • Middle East: Iran, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Syrian Arab Republic, Turkey

Next Page>>>>

SCHOLARSHIP

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

• Central America & Caribbean: Costa Rica, Cuba, Mexico, Panama • South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela Applicants must have received a PhD degree; in the event of equivalent scientific merit, preference is granted to applicants with postdoctoral experience. Applicants wish to spend 6 or 12 months at a partnering research institute in China. No age limit applies. Nevertheless, in the event of equal scientific merit, preference is given to younger and/or female scientists. Terms and benefits: Fellowships are awarded for periods

of 6 or 12 months. Any requests for addition to lab consumables and help alternative durations will be evaluat- the fellows together with visa/permit ed on a case-by-case basis. of stay processes and any mandatory administrative issue. Partnering InstiThe fellowships cover the stipends tutes will also offer help to the fellows of the fellows and are awarded in for accommodation and logistics. the context of this Chinese”Talented Young Scientist Program”. The fi- The IFP is financed in the context nancing standard is fixed at a month- of this”Talented Young Scientist ly stipend of 12,500 RMB Yuan (ap- Program” financed by the Chinese proximately 2,000 USD/month before Ministry of Science and Technology taxation ) to cover the cost of housing (MOST). The rules of the Program and living expenses. The fellowship will apply. stipend will be paid through bank transfer straight to the bank account The ICGEB/CNCBD can’t make of this Partnering Institute in which financial provision or provide any the fellow works. Travel costs aren’t administrative support for family covered by the fellowship. Travel ex- members wanting to accompany sucpenses shall be borne by the fellow cessful applicants. or by the Partnering Institute, to be agreed. Selection process:

and then shortlist the best candidates on the grounds of scientific merit. Final selections will then be made by the CNCBD Selection Committee and the China Science and Technology Exchange Center (CSTEC). The final decision on awards will be taken by the CNCBD/CSTEC based on national priorities depending on the shortlist of applicants provided by the ICGEB. CNCBD will notify both chosen and rejected applicants by email the moment the selection process is concluded. For further information ICGEB Fellowships Office ICGEB Trieste Email: china.IFP@icgeb.org, cncbdoffice@cncbd.org.cn

The Partnering Institute in China The ICGEB Fellowships Selection will provide health insurance, ade- Committee will evaluate total appli- Deadline for Applications: 30 Sepquate laboratory space and setup, in cations received by the closing date tember 2019

TWAS Research Fellowships 2019 – Advanced Training

he official notification for the TWAS Fellowships for Research & Advanced Training has been announced. Candidates from developing nations who have a Master’s degree in any field or branch of natural sciences are eligible to apply for this fellowship. Check out all of the details on the same below:

•

TWAS provides fellowships to young scientists in developing nations to allow them to spend three to 12 months in a research institution in a developing country aside from their own. The objective of these fellowships is to improve the research capacity of promising scientists, particularly those at the beginning of their research career, helping them foster links for additional collaboration.

•

STARTING IN 2018 APPLICATIONS CAN ONLY BE SUBMITTED VIA THE ONLINE PORTAL- PLEASE USE THE “APPLY NOW” BUTTON AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE TO START YOUR APPLICATION.

•

Field: Natural sciences Duration: 3-12 months Qualification: • The fellowships are for research and advanced training. They’re

•

provided to young scientists holding an MSc or equivalent degree. Eligible applicants for the fellowships are young scientists working in any area of natural sciences who are citizens of a developing country and therefore are employed by a research institution in a developing country. There’s no age limit. But preference is awarded to young scientists at the beginning of their research career and those working in the least Developed Countries. Lists of possible host institutions divided by field can be found here. These lists are only a suggestion and institutions which aren’t included are acceptable as long as they’re in a developing country. Institutes of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), China, aren’t eligible host institutions under this programme. Applicants interested in conducting a fellowship in China are expected to check whether their chosen host is a CAS institute. For a complete list of CAS institutes, visit: english.cas.cn/ institutes/. Applicants wishing to attend a CAS institute should either apply to the CAS-TWAS President’s Postgraduate Fellowship Programme or think about the CAS Fellowships for

Postdoctoral and Visiting Scholars from Developing Countries (http://english.cas.cn/cooperation/fellowships/201503/ t20150313_145274.shtml). Deadline: 1 October annually. Prerequisites of this Fellowships: • The fellowships are available for no less than 3 months and a maximum of twelve months. • TWAS covers international lowcost airfare and a contribution towards subsistence amounting to a maximum of USD 300 a month. No additional costs will be provided by TWAS. • The host institution is expected to provide accommodation and food in addition to research facilities. Fellowships are awarded by the TWAS Fellowships Committee on

the basis of scientific merit. Submitting your application: Applicants should complete the online application form by clicking on the ‘Apply now’ button at the bottom of this page. While filling in the online application, applicants also need to upload the following documentation: • Scanned copy of your passport, even if expired (page with your name and surname); • CV, maximum of five pages such as publications; • Supporting Statement from Head of Home Institution; • two reference letters of senior scientists familiar with your

Next Page>>>>

SCHOLARSHIP

work. Please note that the • Head of your Home Institution cannot be one of your referees; • MSc certification and appropriate university transcripts; • Official invitation letter from the Head of the Host Insitute; IMPORTANT: • Notice that the Fellowships are provided for South-South visits only, i.e. for visits by researchers from developing countries to institutions in other developing countries. • Please note that applicants may apply for only 1 programme each calendar year at the TWAS

and OWSD portfolio. Applicants won’t be eligible to visit another institution in that year under the TWAS Visiting Professor programmes. 1 exception: the head of an institution who invites an external scholar to share his/ her expertise under the TWAS Visiting Professor programmes may still apply for another programme. Please make certain to comprehend the eligibility criteria along with other key requirements that are also given in the online application form. Contact email: exchanges@twas.org

JNCASR Visiting Fellowships Programme 2019

he official notification for the JNCASR Visiting Fellowships Programme 2019-2020 has been released. This fellowship is available for Indian Nationals in the research areas of Life Sciences. Interested and eligible candidates are asked to check out all of the details on the same below: Scope: To Nurture collaborations with the Centre’s faculty and to Give research opportunities, the Centre offers Visiting Fellowships to faculty working in Central or State Universities and R&D Labs in India. Visiting fellows are associated with faculty of JNCASR, along with the research work is carried out at JNCASR. Research Areas: Life Sciences (such as developmental and molecular biology, chronobiology, genetics, ecology, behavior, neurobiology); Materials Sciences (such as nanoscience); Chemica/ Sciences (such as chemical biology, interfaces of chemical science with materials, solid-state chemistry, theoretical/ computational chemistry, inorganic, physical and organic chemistry);Political Sciences (such as theoretical and experimental condensed-matter and materials physics, statistical physics, organic electronics and experimental nanobiotechnology);Engineering Sciences (such as fluid dynamics, nonlinear dynamics, and thermal and chemical engineering); and Atmospheric Sciences. Duration and Fellowship: The fellowship is tenable for a minimum un-

interrupted period of sixty days and a maximum of 3 months and valid for a year from the date of the offer letter. The timing of this visit may be decided according to mutual convenience. The fellowship carries an honorarium of Rs 50,000 a month. Qualification: Faculty or engineers with a Ph.D., that have permanent positions in Central or State Universities or R&D labs are invited to apply. Individuals who have applied for or utilized this Visiting Fellowship Programme earlier shouldn’t apply. Application process: The application form can be downloaded from https://www.jncasr.ac.in/ fe. Completed The application should include a certificate from the Head of the candidate’s parent institute permitting continuous leave for the duration of the fellowship. The completed application and supporting documents must be sent as a single PDF file by email to fellowships@jncasr.ac.in and in hard copy by post to The Academic Coordinator, JNCASR, Jakkur, Bangalore -560 064. Email subject line and an envelope containing hard copy should be clearly marked ‘Application for Visiting Fellowship Programme 2019-2020′. Incomplete applications will be rejected and no additional correspondence will be entertained in this regard. Important Dates: Last date for receipt of completed application form: 16 August 2019. The awardees will be notified in October 2019.

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

SCHOLARSHIP

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

ICMR-Newton Fund Researcher Official Notification

he official notification for the Indian Council of Medical Research & British Council UK Researcher Links Workshops under the Newton Bhabha Fund programme has been released. Indian nationals are encouraged to check out all of the details of this below and apply for the same: Indian Council of Medical Research has partnered with British Council UK for the Researcher Links Workshops under the Newton Bhabha Fund programme. Newton Researcher Links Workshops bring together early-career researchers from the united kingdom and a partner nation to make international connections which may enhance the standard of the research. Once funded, grants are available for early-career researchers in the united kingdom and the country hosting the workshop to attend. These grants are financed under the Newton Fund, a UK Government initiative funded by the UK Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), together with spouse funders from all over the world. The Fund intends to promote the economic development and welfare of either the partner countries or, through working together with the partner country, to deal with problems of low-income and vulnerable populations. Researcher links grants are made to provide financial aid to bring along a UK/Indian bilateral cohort of early career researchers to take part in workshops to satisfy the overarching objectives. Every workshop will be co-ordinated by 2 Leading or Established Researchers, (Principal Applicants), one from every country, and will focus on a particular research area. Priority areas: Partner nations may specify priority areas and will only accept applications within these. Priority areas are listed in the guidelines document. ODA requirement: All applications must satisfy the mandatory relevance to economic development or social welfare of the partner country – view guidelines document that can be

found in the downloads section. Partner Countries: Brazil China India Jordan Philippines The thematic research areas are: 1. Elimination Strategy for HIV — together with the following subthemes: a) The test-and-treat strategy along with other potential strategies for HIV elimination including themes such as — Treatment as prevention for HIV AIDS that highlights the impact of treatment on the transmission dynamics of HIV in populations; Other possible elimination strategies. b) Challenges to elimination such as topics such as — Resistance, Social behavioural aspect and persistent HIV infection Dynamics of HIV reservoirs 2. HIV-TB co-infection — together with subsequent sub-themes: a) Understanding TB latency now and its opportunities for HIV and TB programs including topics include — • Current Choices for treatment and diagnosis and for TB latent infection; • New strategy/ formulas for treating latent TB infection: opportunities and challenges; • Reach all needing treatment of latent TB & and its own opportunities for HIV and TB programs. b) Finding synergies between the HIV and TB programs such as topics like — • TB prevention in HIV-associated TB: Opportunities and challenges; • New regimens for both TB and HIV. Eligibility Criteria: • Leading or Established Researchers can apply to be Principal Applicants (according to the EC – download information

here ). • Each proposal should have one Principal Applicant from the united kingdom, in addition to a Principal Applicant from the partner countries listed above. • Please download and see the list of eligible UK research institutions (in the Downloads section). Other eligibility criteria apply – for complete eligibility criteria, please read the guidelines document available in the downloads section. How to Apply: Applicants should submit a completed application form through the British Council online application system. Prior to applying, kindly go to the site https://www.britishcouncil. org/education/science/current-opportunities/newton-fund-researcher-links-workshops?_ga=2.261 486093.1636826022.1563263022 1592752652.1562737002 for the details. Contact: • In case you have any queries, please contact UK-ResearcherLinks@britishcouncil.org • In your email, please specify

that you’re enquiring about the Newton Fund Researcher Links Workshops call. After applying, a soft copy of the proposal may please be submitted to the undersigned for the record. Contact person(s) at ICMR: Dr. Reema Roshan Scientist C(Project) International Health Division (IHD) ICMR Hqrs, New Delhi Email: reemaicmr@gmail.com 91-11-26588895, Extn.347 Dr.Mukesh Kumar Scientist G & Head International Health Division mukeshk.hq@icmr.gov.in Tele Fax. 91-11-26588755, Tele. 26589794,26588980 Extn.242 Dr. Harpreet Sandhu Scientist F International Health Division sandhuh.hq@icmr.gov.in Tele Fax. 91-11-26589492, Tele. 26589794,26588980 Extn.237 Closing Date: The last date of submission of applications is 9th August 2019.

SCHOLARSHIP

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowships for the Year 2019-20

0 fellowships are available for Indian and Overseas nationals at Netaji Subhas-ICAR International Fellowships 2018-2019. Netaji Subhas-ICAR International Fellowships 2019-2020, thirty fellowships are available for Indian and overseas candidates. Check out all of the details on the same below:

the awardee will be known as”NS-ICAR International Fellow”.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) invites applications from the Indian as well as overseas nationals with Master’s degree in Agriculture and allied sciences for the Netaji Subhas-ICAR International Fellowships (NS-ICAR IFs) for its calendar year 2019-20. The NS-ICAR IFs are available for pursuing a doctoral degree in agriculture and allied sciences, in the identified priority areas, to the (I) Indian applicants for study abroad in the recognized overseas Universities/Institutions having strong research and teaching capabilities and (ii) to overseas applicants for study in the Indian Agricultural Universities (AUs) in the ICAR-AUs system. Thirty fellowships for the duration of 3 years will be available.

• Indian candidates for study overseas in the recognized overseas Universities/Institutions having strong research and teaching capabilities and • Overseas candidates for study in the very best Indian AUs in the ICAR-AUs system.

Overview: In its ongoing efforts towards improving and sustaining the criteria, quality and significance of higher agricultural education in the nation, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) here-in-after, called the Council, has instituted International Fellowships with double function of (I) human resource development in cutting-edge technologies and (ii) demonstrating the strength of Indian agricultural system overseas. The target is to develop competent human resource which is trained in the identified best labs in the world (for Indian applicants ) and additionally expose overseas applicants to the very best Indian Agricultural Universities (AUs) in the ICAR-AU system (comprising of State Agricultural Universities, Central Agricultural Universities (CAUs), ICAR-Deemed Universities, Allahabad Agricultural Institute-DU, Central Universities with agricultural faculty) for creating a pool of scientist-envoys for improved future co-operation. Title: The fellowship is named as”Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NSICARIF)” and

Purpose: The NS-ICAR IFs are available to support Indian/ Overseas nationals for pursuing a doctoral degree in agriculture and allied sciences, in the identified priority areas, to the

Location: For study in the identified institutions having strong research and teaching capabilities and sufficient strength in terms of infrastructure and faculty facilities, the NS ICAR-IFs are tenable at: • identified overseas institutions in the event of Indian applicants and • recognized Indian Agricultural Universities (AUs) from ICAR-AU system in India in the event of overseas applicants. Tenure of Fellowship: • The NS-ICAR IFs are available to Indian candidates in addition to overseas applicants for a period of 3 years. • The tenure of the fellowship won’t be extended in any case, so far as the Council support is concerned. • In the event the fellow isn’t able to complete his/her degree during this period, he/she will use his/her own resources for completing the degree. • In the event the fellow isn’t able to finish even after two years of the prescribed duration of this programme for which the fellowship was sanctioned, the Council might take necessary steps, for the retrieval of the fellowship paid. No.of.Fellowships: The number of fellowships available annually for a programme leading to

a PhD degree under this scheme will be thirty (30). The allocation of fellowships between Indian and Overseas candidates depends upon the availability of good candidates in the identified priority areas.

•

Eligibility: • Master’s degree in agriculture/ allied sciences with an Overall Grade Point Average (OGPA) 6.60 out of 10.0 or 65% marks or equivalent is going to be the eligibility requirement for the NS-ICAR IFs. • The fresh candidates shouldn’t be over 35 years old on the last date prescribed for receipt of applications. The upper age limit for In-service candidates will be 40 years on the final date for receipt of applications. • The notification for the fellowship will contain detailed eligibility requirements. • Netaji Subhas- ICAR IF will be available for both fresh and in-service candidates. However, the fresh candidates must have completed their qualifying degree more than two years before the specified date in the year of admission. The in-service candidates from India ought to be employed in the ICAR-AU system. • The Council will identify and announce the priority areas of research and also the list of institutions for admission, 1 year ahead of time, for availing the Netaji Subhas- ICAR IFs. Mode of Application: • The candidate must submit an application for the fellowship, online, in the prescribed format. • The area of study and the line of this proposed research work must be in the identified priority

•

area pertinent to Indian/Global agriculture as identified by the Council and the exact same shall be notified annually beforehand. The candidate will provide two references together with their contact Email addresses, in support of his application, who may be directly contacted by the Council for obtaining comments in the prescribed format on his candidature. One of the 2 referees should preferably be his/her supervisor at the present occupation (if employed) and one that is a master in the region and well acquainted with the candidate’s work. The candidates for the ICAR-IF must obtain at their own level, an acceptance of their admission in the PhD degree programmes with an identified area of study at the Indian AUs in case of overseas applicants and the identified overseas institutions in the event of Indian applicants. Such approval letters should rather be included with the application for the fellowship. The candidates must satisfy themselves concerning admission and course requirements of the university prior to identifying these as a place of study. Applications for NS-ICAR IFs will be invited on a yearly basis through announcements published in Indian national newspapers along with the notification on ICAR site”http://www. icar.org.in”. Indian diplomatic missions in foreign countries will also be informed through e-mails.

Next Page>>>>

SCHOLARSHIP

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Mode of Selection: • The candidates will be evaluated according to parameters/weighted scale consequently taking into consideration the significance of this area of study, the proposed research plan, academic records, achievements and past work experience of the candidate. • The decision will be made on the basis of evaluation score and subsequent interview by a Selection Committee, constituted by the Council and duly empowered to judge the suitability of a candidate with respect to the importance of the area of study and also the proposed research plan. The Committee may also decide to conduct a telephonic/teleconferencing interview for the purpose. The overseas candidates might even be interviewed by experts according to the Council who might be located in their home country. • The candidate must have a clear record of good conduct allthrough, duly certified by the Competent Authority of the University last attended or the present employer in the event of an in-service candidate. • In the time of the interview, the candidates should provide a letter of acceptance for their admission in the respective degree programme at the University. • The in-service Indian applicants should also furnish deputation approval by their respective Director of ICAR Institutes/ Vice-Chancellor of Agricultural Universities. • Once selected, the candidates should register for the programme within a year from the date of issue of letter of the fellowship award. In the event of a delay, the deal will get terminated automatically and no separate communication towards cancellation will be issued by the Council. Fellowship Amount and Contingencies: The fellow will be entitled to the following: • To-and-fro, economy class air ticket for international travel, by the shortest route, from the airport, nearest to the residence/ workplace of the candidate to the airport, nearest to the destination University in regard of both Indian and Overseas candidates (Air tickets to be provided

by the Council). • The overseas fellows will qualify for economy-class-travel cost compensation from the port of arrival in India to the destination University in India as well as back. • For Indian candidates, the cost on travelling from place of residence/work to the port of departure in India and from the port of arrival to the destination University overseas will be fulfilled by the fellows themselves by their host organization. • The amount payable to the International fellowship applicants: • • The fellowship amount for the first instalment is going to be released by the Council to the fellow through government notified/ approved bank to be deposited in the bank account of their fellow on receiving his/ her acceptance for the fellowship and admission letter received from the host University. • Thereafter, the amount of fellowship is going to be released to the fellow, after getting the academic progress report from the fellow duly certified by the concerned advisor/ supervisor/ head of the institution. • The first instalment to the Indian fellow is going to be paid in Indian Rupees only. • The fellow will meet the other costs including medical insurance from the aforementioned fellowship or by his or her own resources. • Throughout the tenure of the fellowship, an in-service fellow could continue to receive his/ her salary, types of benefits and leave etc., from the parent organization according to rules. Bank Guarantee and Service Bond: (i) Indian chosen fellows will provide an irrevocable Bank guarantee for an amount of US$ 10,000/(equal in rupee currency) in favour of the Secretary, ICAR. The Bank guarantee ought to be valid for the whole duration until the successful conclusion of this programme. (ii) For foreign national chosen fellows, an amount of Rs. 2,00,000 will be recovered from their fellowship grant as alternate of Bank guaranty, concerning Rs. 1,00,000 each from first and second instalment until successful completion of their PhD study programme. This fellowship amount of Rs. 2,00,000 is going to be paid to the fellow in the time of the final release

of fellowship”.

scheme. (iv) The period of absence from the host university and stay in Indian university/Institute have to be authenticated/verified from the identified Advisor and Co-Advisor respectively.

The Indian in-service candidates chosen for international fellowship shall execute a bond with all the deputing University/Institute to undertake to serve that institution after the completion of the degree for at least Medical Fitness: Selected fellow three years. will be asked to get his or her medical fitness test and medical insurance Continuance of this Fellowship: done at their cost. The fellow will submit his progress report to the Council, through his/her adviser/supervisor/ head of their institution every six months. Throughout the tenure of the fellowship, the fellow should neither change the place of work nor deviate from the broad research area for which the fellowship is sanctioned. The selected applicants will be required to submit an Undertaking to this effect and for adherence to the other conditions of the guidelines regulating the fellowship as prescribed by the ICAR, together with the acceptance of this International Fellowship. The fellow will devote his or her full time for his/ her preferred area of studies/ research work during the tenure of his or her fellowship. Satisfactory progress in studies will be necessary for the continuance of their fellowship during the period of study as represented by the grades certification and secured by the advisor/ supervisor. In the event of unsatisfactory performance in studies, or conduct probation, the fellowship will be terminated with immediate effect and the fellow will have to meet the expenditure on remaining part of their programme from their own resources. This fellowship isn’t intended for the conduct of training or to carry out research of brief duration. Research Experiment and data collection at Indian SAUs/Institutions situated in India. (i) The fellows, that are expected to put experiments at Indian SAUs/Institutes situated in India and data collection in the Indian location, might be permitted for a maximum period of one-and-a-half-year in accordance with their research plan. (ii) With the approval of the Advisor and prior approval of ICAR, they could undertake interim visits to India on their own resources. ICAR won’t provide any financial aid on travelling for the purpose. (iii) During the stay in India, they’ll be eligible for fellowships @ Rs. 40,000/- per month and contingent and preparatory expenses @ Rs. 25,000/- per annum, as the exact same sum that’s offered to foreign national fellows doing PhD in India under the

Payment of Fees: All fees chargeable from the host institution where the fellow is enrolled will be covered by the fellow himself from their fellowship grant or from his or her own resources. IPR Issues: The fellow is expected to take appropriate steps to protect the Intellectual Property Rights likely to be generated during his or her stay in the host institution. The Council will have the appropriate share on the patents/ knowledge generated by the fellow whilst pursuing the programme as specified under IP Management bulletin. If the fellow enters into any other IP agreement, the exact same will be shared with the Council. In most publications arising out of the work, the support from the Council must be duly acknowledged. Completion Report from Netaji Subhas-ICAR IF: Both Indian and Overseas fellows will need to submit within 15 days of their completion of the program, a copy of the dissertation/thesis plus a concise report on the activities undertaken including any substantial research contribution to the Council. Non-return of Indian Fellows to India: The Indian Fellows must return to India after completion of their PhD degree. If the fresh Indian Fellow is offered a suitable position in ICAR-AU system, he/she shall serve the ICAR-AU system. In case of non-compliance to these provisions, the entire sum paid to the Fellow along with 10% overhead cost is going to be retrieved by the Council from the Fellow himself from his surety, failing that, the Indian Embassy in the host country will be informed to take appropriate action. Budget Head for Expenditure: The expenditure on the NS-ICAR International fellowships, contingent grant and travel expenses will be met from the Council from the Plan

Next Page>>>>

SCHOLARSHIP

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

budget-head”ICAR International/ overseas fellowships”. Review of this Netaji Subhas-ICAR international fellowship Scheme: The ICAR international fellowship scheme together with the fellowship amount and its guidelines will be subject to periodic reviews, as deemed fit by the Council. General: • For any clarification regarding the NS-ICAR IFs, the Assistant Director-General (EQR), Education Division, ICAR, New Delhi may be contacted. • Secretary, ICAR and Additional Secretary DARE will be the final authority in resolving and

taking a decision on any situahi only. tion/case of conflict as well as his decision shall be binding on How to Apply: all parties concerned. • For any dispute, the applicable Application ought to be submitlaw will be the Indian law under ted (one hard copy by post and one the jurisdiction of Courts in Del- soft copy by email) to the Assistant

Director-General (EQR), Education Division, ICAR, Krishi Anusandhan Bhavan II, Pusa, New Delhi-110012 (email: nsicarif@gmail.com). The last date for receipt of application is August 30, 2019.

Research Grant of Rs 15 Lakh – S. Ramachandran-National Bioscience Award 2019

he official notification for the S Ramachandran-National Bioscience Award 2019 has been released. S. Ramachandran-National Bioscience Award for Career Development 2019. Interested and eligible candidates can check out the awards available in 2 categories and apply for the same below: Goal: To recognize outstanding contributions of young scientists under 45 years old in basic and applied research in the fields of Biosciences and Biotechnology including basic, agricultural, biomedical and environmental sciences together with possible for application/product and technology development and also to provide a grant for research for their career advancement. Nature of the Award: Up to 10 awards subject to the availability of suitable candidates will be provided each year. Each award includes a cash prize of Rs 2,00,000/- (one time) plus a project research grant of Rs 15,00,000/- @ Rs 5,00,000/- annually for a period of 3 years for career development with a citation and trophy. Eligibility: i) Any Citizen of India such as who are engaged in basic and applied research in the fields of biosciences and biotechnology in the nation.

ii) He/She must have made an outstanding and significant contribution in the regions of biosciences/biotechnology during the last five years. The work for which nomination is made must have been carried out in India. iii) He/She must submit a research project for the advancement of their work in India for a period of the following 3 years. iv) He/she ought to be under the age of 45 years as on closing date of nomination submission i.e. 31.8.2019. Nominations: Names of Scientist could be proposed in the prescribed proforma for consideration for the Award by the following categories of persons or organizations: Secretaries of S&T Departments; user Ministries/Departments like Atomic Energy, Commerce, Environment & Forests, Health and Family Welfare, Human Resource Development, Industry, New and Renewable Energy, Earth Sciences, Space, members of the Standing Advisory Committee (Overseas) of DBT, Directors General of Scientific Organizations (CSIR, DRDO, ICAR, ICMR); Presidents of Scientific Societies and Academies of all India character; Chairman UGC; Vice-Chancellors /Directors of universities and deemed universities; Heads of R&D Institutions; Directors of National Research Laboratories and Advisor/Member (Science), Niti Aayog. The nominations should include a brief project proposal to get suggested research in the subsequent 3 years.

Nominations from individuals sponsoring their own names aren’t considered. Selection: The selection of awardees for the award will be made on the basis of recommendations of a Selection Committee. Only nominations complete in all respects as per proforma will be considered. Presentation of these awards: Just selected awardees will be informed. The awards will be presented to the chosen scientists at a formal function, organized by the DBT. Payment of TA/DA: TA/DA to the awardees for attending the award ceremony will be paid by the Department of Biotechnology according to Govt. Of India rules. How to Apply: Nominations in the prescribed proforma ought to be submitted

mandatorily online through DBT portal (ePromis) (url: http://www.dbtepromis.nic.in) on or before August 31st, 2019. 3 hard copies of nominations Together with requisite documents must also be sent to Dr. Kakali Dey Dasgupta, Scientist”E”, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Room No.814, 8th Floor, Block-2, CGO Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi -110003. For details of this award, nomination proforma and steps for online submission of nomination please log on to DBT site (www.dbtindia.gov.in) Last Date of Submission of Nomination: 31st August 2019

GOVT JOBS

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Govt CDFD – Centre for DNA Fingerprinting Life Science / Biotech Research Job

Sc and PhD Biotechnology, Genetics, Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Microbiology candidates apply online for Research positions that are available at CDFD – Centre for DNA Fingerprinting & Diagnostics. CDFD jobs for msc and phd genetics and life sciences candidates, as per the details that have been given below:

•

Advt. No. CDFD/EMPC/1/July’19 CDFD, an autonomous institute of the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, invites applications from Indian nationals for the following only temporary vacancies in research projects funded by National / International agencies at CDFD such as DST/DBT/ ICMR/CSIR etc.. The description of the positions and minimal qualifications for a variety of vacancies are as follows: Research Associate:: Minimum qualifications: Ph.D. in Physics / Chemistry / Life Science / Biotechnology / Genetics / Biochemistry / Microbiology / Bioinformatics from recognized University / Institute or MD / MS / MDS. or M.V.Sc. / M.Pharm. / M.E./ M.Tech. Having three years of research, teaching and design and development experience with a minimum of one research paper in Science Citation Indexed (SCI) journal.

• •

•

2. Project–Junior Research Fellow / Project Assistant /Research Assistant: Minimum qualifications: M.Sc. in Physics / Chemistry / Life Science / Biotechnology / Genetics / Biochemistry / Microbiology / Bioinformatics / Medicinal Chemistry / M. Tech from recognized University / Institute. Desirable Qualifications: Expertise in research as demonstrated by the successful conclusion of a research project in a reputed Institute / Centre. General Terms and Conditions: • The number of vacancies advertised against each category

•

is provisional and may vary at the time of selection, if more vacancies with identical job requirements become available at the time of selection or within a year after the selection, these may also be filled from among the candidates that might apply and be placed on the panel for the aforementioned posts. For all the aforementioned posts candidates shouldn’t have finished the age of 35 years. Age limits shall be reckoned as on the final date of receipt of applications. No TA/DA is going to be compensated for attending the interview. Based on the qualifications, expertise and recommendations of the Selection Committee, the chosen candidates could be placed in a scale and designation lower than the grade advertised/ applied (in precisely the exact same group) These positions are strictly temporary and are initially for a period of six months or a year. They are extended/terminated depending on the continuation of this project(s). Reservation for SC/ST/OBC/ Physically Handicapped/Ex-service person applicants will be according to Govt. of India rules. Relaxation of age for SC/ST/ OBC/Physically Handicapped/ Ex-service person/ Women applicants will be according to Govt. of India rules. Mere fulfilling the minimum qualifications will not entitle the candidate for being called for interview. The applications will be screened with a Committee and applicants found suitable will be required interview. The conclusion of the Director, CDFD will be final in this respect and no correspondence will be entertained in this regard. Any of those chosen individuals may from time to time be assigned to perform any other duties commensurate with their qualifications, from the Director, CDFD. The Director, CDFD reserves the right to appropriately change/relax some of the aforementioned conditions. He also reserves the right to accept or reject any application without assigning any

reason. • Candidates that have qualified CSIR / UGC — JRFship NET or Project — JRF fellowship under the ICMR funded project Scheme or so are empanelled in DBT — JRF listing (category I & II) or GATE (All India Top 100 Ranks in Biotechnology [BT], Life Sciences [XL] or Chemistry [CY]) and those who apply to CDFD may be asked to directly appear for interview in Hyderabad. How to Apply: Interested candidates who meet the above conditions may register their names by applying in the prescribed application form online. Complete the application form online at http:// www.cdfd.org.in and take the print from this filled form. Application Fee: The applicants applying for the positions of (i) Research Associate and

(ii) Project Assistant / Project – Junior Research Fellow / Research Assistant are asked to pay an application fee as detailed below: • The additional Payment Gateway Transaction Charges @ 3.10% will be charged extra from the Candidate. • The online facility will open on 04.07.2019 and will be shut on 07.08.2019 • Incomplete Applications and Applications with no caste/disability certificate (if applicable) or the applications received following the final date are liable to be rejected. • The names of short-listed candidates will be displayed on our site and the short-listed candidates will be called for LAN based Exam/Interview. The individual Admit Card / Hall Ticket with details of password, username, venue of the exam and time will be sent via email. No individual intimation letter would be sent.

GOVT JOBS

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

Govt Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission Scientific Officer Job With High Pay

overnment research jobs for graduate candidates at Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC). IPC is recruiting for Scientific Officer jobs. Govt jobs for postgraduate candidates. Scientific Officer jobs at IPC. Interested and eligible candidates, check out all of the details on the same below: The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) Was established as an autonomous Institution under the aegis of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. Of India chiefly with the aims of routinely upgrading the Indian Pharmacopoeia (an official book for setting standards of drugs in the Country) by publishing new edition and its addenda, from time to time; National Formulary of India (reference book for rational use of generic medications ) and carrying out other related tasks like providing Reference Substances into the stakeholders and conducting skill development programmes. The Commission also functions as National Coordination Centres (NCC) for Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) and Materiovigilance Programme of India (MvPI) for ensuring the safety of patients/drugs and medical devices, respectively, in the Country. Applications are encouraged, for filling up of the following posts, by direct recruitment and by deputation, according to the details below, from competent, dynamic and dedicated citizens of India who fulfil the eligibility criteria and other details which might be downloaded from the website of the Commission (http://www.ipc.gov.in) along with attested copies of supporting documents and Annual Confidential Reports for the previous five years in the event of applicants employed in Govt. Organizations or assessment report in the event of private employment and the employer certificates THROUGH PROPER CHANNEL in order to reach the Commission within 45 days of its publication in the Employment News. Note: – Age comfort according to Govt. Norms. The number of position may decrease or increase without assigning any reason. For the essential qualifications, experience & other details please see our site (www.ipc.gov.in)

POST I S. No. 2: Scientific Officer, (Pay Matrix Level 10; Rs.56100-177500) (Direct Recruitment) Scale as per 7th (CPC) recommendation: Pay Matrix Level 10 Essential Qualification: Post Graduate degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences/Bio-Chemistry/Biotechnology/Pharmacology/Microbiology Chemistry or equal Associateship diploma of the Institution of Chemists (India)/ from a recognised University. Experience Five years’ experience in the related field i.e. Pharmaceutical Sciences/ Bio-Chemistry/ Biotechnology/ Chemistry/ Pharmacology/ Microbiology especially in the analysis/ research of pharmaceuticals and drugs. Desirable Qualification: (i) Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences/ Bio-Chemistry/ Biotechnology/ Chemistry/ Pharmacology/ Microbiology/ (ii) Post-qualification research experience in the relevant field with a support of paper(s) published/ drugs analysis experience. (iii) Good understanding of computer application. Age Limit: Up to 35 years POST II S. No. 6: Senior Scientific Officer, (Pay Matrix Level 11; Rs.67700208700) (Deputation) Deputation: Officers under the Central Government/State Govt. /Union Territories/Central Public Sector Undertakings/Autonomous Bodies/ Statutory Organizations/Recognized Research Councils or Institutions (a) holding an analogous post or (b) with 5 years regular service in Pay band-3 (Rs.15600-39100) and Grade pay Rs.5400 (pre-revised) [according to 7th CPC Pay Matrix Level 10; Rs.56100-177500 (Revised)] or equivalent (c) or with 6 years regular service in Pay band-2 (Rs.9300-34800) and Grade pay Rs.4800 (pre-revised) [according to 7th CPC Pay Matrix Level 8; Rs.47600-151100 (revised)) or equivalent in the parent department /cadre and possessing the qualifica-

tion(s) and experience prescribed for direct recruitment as specified below: Scale as per 7th (CPC) recommendation: Pay Matrix Level 11 Essential Qualification: Post Graduate degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences/Biochemistry/Biotechnology/ Chemistry or equal Associateship diploma of the Institution of Chemists (India)/ Pharmacology/Microbiology from a recognised University. Experience: 5 years of experience in the region of pharmaceuticals especially in the analysis/research of pharmaceuticals and drugs. Desirable: (i) Ph.D. from the associated fields i.e. Pharmaceutical Sciences/ Bio-Chemistry/ Biotechnology/ Chemistry/ Pharmacology/ Microbiology. (ii) Post-qualification Research expertise in the relevant field with a support of paper(s) published/ drugs analysis experience. (iii) Good understanding of computer application. POST III S. No. 7: Scientific Officer, (Pay Matrix Level 10; Rs.56100-177500) (Deputation) Scale as per 7th (CPC) recommendation: Pay Matrix Level 10 Deputation: Officers under the Central Government/State Govt. /Union Territories/ Central Public Sector Undertakings/ Autonomous Bodies/ Statutory Organizations/Recognized Research Councils or Institutions holding analogous post or with two years regular service in Pay Band-2 (Rs.9300-

34800) and Grade pay Rs.4800 (pre-revised) [according to 7th CPC, Pay Matrix Level 8; Rs.47600-151100 (revised)] or with 3 years regular service in Pay band-2 (Rs.9300-34800) and Grade pay Rs.4600 (pre-revised) [according to 7th CPC, Pay Matrix Level 7; Rs.44900-142400 (revised)] or with 8 years regular service in Pay band-2 (Rs.9300-34800) and Grade pay Rs.4200 (pre-revised) [according to 7th CPC, Pay Matrix Level 6; Rs.35400-112400 (revised)] from the parent department/cadre and owning the qualification(s) and experience prescribed for the post as specified below: Essential Qualification: Post Graduate degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences/Biochemistry/Biotechnology/ Pharmacology/ Microbiology Chemistry or equal Associate-ship diploma of the Institution of Chemists (India)/ from a recognised University. Experience: Five years’ experience in the related field i.e. Pharmaceutical Sciences / Bio-Chemistry/ Biotechnology/ Chemistry/ Pharmacology/ Microbiology especially from the analysis/ research of pharmaceuticals and drugs. Desirable: (i) Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences/ Bio-Chemistry/ Biotechnology/ Chemistry/ Pharmacology/ Microbiology. (ii) Post-qualification study expertise in the appropriate field with the support of paper(s) published/ drugs analysis expertise.

Next Page>>>>

GOVT JOBS

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88

(iii) Good knowledge of computer application How to Apply: • Application giving particulars according to prescribed format with a passport size photo on the application at the space indicated with attested copies

of certificates must be sent to the Secretary-cum-Scientific Director, Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, Sector 23, Raj Nagar, Ghaziabad-201002. The envelope containing the application ought to be superscribed”Application for the post of _______________”. • The posts carry usual allowances

as admissible to Central Government Employees of corresponding status. • The experience may also be relaxed at the discretion of the competent authority if an adequate number of applications from applicants with the requisite experience isn’t available. • The competent authority re-

serves the right to reject any/or all incomplete/incorrect/without signature applications received for the post without assigning any reason. • The application complete in all respects has to be sent in order to the undersigned lasted by 5.00 PM on 13th August 2019.

Latest Govt Recruitment at Wildlife Institute of India – MSc Biotech / Life Science / Biology Apply

II Zoology/ Biotechnology/ Life sciences candidates apply for Project Fellow posts at Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun. Latest Govt Recruitment. WII Dehra Dun jobs for MSc Biotech/Life Sciences/Zoology candidates. Wildlife Institute of India job vacancies for msc candidates. Wildlife Institute of India – WII is hiring as per the details posted below: Advt. No. SEA-NCPOR/2019-22

WII/In-

Position: Project Fellow No of Posts: 01 Name of the Project: Long-Term Monitoring of Wildlife and their Habitats in Antarctica and Southern Ocean Essential Qualification (EQ): First Class Master’s degree in Wildlife Sciences/ Marine Biology/ Zoology/ Biotechnology/ Life sciences or allied disciplines. Desirable Qualification (DQ): • Minimum one-year expertise of field research/wildlife Conservation work in high altitudes/ overseas marine Surveys/ Polar areas. • Experience of working in a multidisciplinary project. • Experience of conducting aerial surveys or participation in field expeditions. • Publications in peer-reviewed UGC approved journals Job Description: • Work involves data collection onboard marine vessels, Aerial surveys, on-foot surveys for seabirds and seals over Large regions, aerial surveys. • The candidate will conduct field research, data collection, data

analysis, technical analysis and scientific paper writing. • Candidate Will Need to be physically fit for working in Difficult terrain and display the ability to carry forward the Tasks under limited logistics. Duration: 1 year (extendable based upon performance for an additional 2 years) Emoluments: Rs. 25,000/- + HRA as applicable Funding agency: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Wildlife Institute of both India and NCPOR, Goa. How to Apply: • Age limit for the position is 32 years but age relaxation will be considered according to Government of India standards for reserved category candidates. • The candidates appearing for Written Exam ought to report at Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Chandrabani, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, with original application and Documents at 0930 hours on 2nd August 2019 for scrutiny of documents followed By Written Examination on precisely the exact same day at 1030 hours. The result of this written examination will be announced at 1300 hours and shortlisted candidates would be interviewed From 1400 hours onwards. • The application should be duly filled in the prescribed format, duly signed and ought to be accompanied by self-attested copies of documents on educational qualifications, Research expertise, UGC/CSIR/GATE certificates (if any), extracurricular activities, Date of birth, mark sheets of all examinations, community certificates (if sought Relaxation according to Government of India rules), etc.

• The Institute Won’t provide accommodation for candidates appearing for the written examination and personal interview. No TA/DA will be compensated for attending the written examination and personal interview. • At the time of this verification of original documents or even after selection, if it’s Found that an attempt has been made by the applicant to willfully conceal, Misrepresent or canvass the facts,

such applicant won’t be considered for Selection and due action will be taken. • The application form may be downloaded from the Institute’s site www.wii.gov.in • The Director WII reserves the right to reject any candidature in view of incomplete information provided by the candidate or for any other reason.

BIOTECNIKA TIMES

July 23rd, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 88