Deadline: 20-Aug-2025
The Department of Biotechnology has launched a Call for Proposals to advance quantum-based research and development in biotechnology. The focus is on understanding biotechnological phenomena at the atomic level and applying this knowledge in industrial processes such as biomolecular engineering, diagnostics, synthetic biology, and product development including biosensors and imaging technologies. The initiative also aims to support the start-up ecosystem.
Only proposals that aim to build interdisciplinary networks or clusters across institutions will be considered. These must involve collaboration between investigators from different fields to ensure a holistic and impactful approach.
The primary objective is to develop India’s academic and industrial biotechnology ecosystem. This includes strengthening institutional capacity in quantum biotechnology, generating skilled human resources, enhancing academia-industry linkages, encouraging start-up growth, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
Priority areas include quantum-inspired techniques and simulations to study biomolecular reactions, quantum biosensing for medical diagnostics, quantum photonics for sensitive imaging, and the use of supporting technologies like nanorobotics, machine learning, and mobile apps. Additionally, understanding quantum dynamics in biological systems is a key focus for creating novel biotechnology applications.
Financial support will be provided only to academic or scientific institutions. While industries cannot receive funding directly, they can collaborate with academic institutions and may contribute financially. Infrastructure funding will be allocated solely to academic institutions. Project funding will be granted for up to three years, with the possibility of extension based on performance. Continued funding depends on the timely submission of progress and financial reports.
Proposals must be written in English and submitted by investigators holding a regular position in Indian academic or scientific institutions. They should clearly outline objectives, rationale, deliverables, and a detailed work plan. In collaborative proposals, the roles of each partner must be complementary and well defined. Proposals that demonstrate potential for technological output and public-private partnerships will be given preference.
Eligible applicants are Indian nationals employed in academic or scientific institutions, with at least four years remaining before retirement. Collaborations with other institutions, industries, or start-ups are encouraged.
Proposals will be evaluated based on academic and industrial linkage, multidisciplinary scope, clear objectives, short-term deliverables, national interest alignment, and the presence of industrial or international collaboration.
Once selected, applicants must provide a signed institutional declaration, necessary ethical clearances, and a certificate of compliance with the National Biodiversity Act (2002). For projects involving product development or commercialization, a declaration ensuring the originality and intellectual property integrity of the proposal must be submitted.
For more information, visit Government of India.
