Organisation Name:
Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC)
Application Deadline:
31 October 2026
About Organisation
The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) is a public sector enterprise established by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. It supports biotechnology innovation by connecting researchers, entrepreneurs, academic institutions and industry with funding and development opportunities. Its programmes encourage the translation of scientific ideas into products, technologies and solutions addressing societal and industrial needs. Through fellowships, research support, mentoring and incubation partnerships, BIRAC helps early-stage innovators develop technical capabilities and explore entrepreneurial pathways. Its E-YUVA scheme focuses on young students and researchers, providing structured support for applied research and innovation through designated E-YUVA Centres and their knowledge partners.
About the Grant
The BIRAC E-YUVA scheme invites applications under two categories: E-YUVA Fellowships for undergraduate students and Innovation Fellowships for eligible postgraduate and doctoral graduates. The programme supports applied research and innovation addressing societal or industry needs, particularly ideas with potential for translation into useful products and technologies. Selected fellows can receive fellowship support, an annual research grant, access to incubation infrastructure and mentoring through designated E-YUVA Centres and BioNEST partners. Eligible project areas include healthcare, diagnostics, medical devices, vaccines, agriculture, industrial biotechnology, sanitation, clean energy, bioinformatics and relevant applications of artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things and automation.
Who can Apply?
The call is open to undergraduate student teams and eligible postgraduate or doctoral graduates, depending on the fellowship category. Undergraduate applicants must form teams of three to five Indian students enrolled at Indian colleges or institutes, with a mentor or guide supporting the project. Interdisciplinary teams and applications from first- and second-year undergraduates are encouraged. Innovation Fellowship applicants must meet the scheme’s degree and completion-time requirements and be willing to work full-time at an E-YUVA Centre. The proposal should demonstrate applied research potential and a credible path towards innovation. Applicants should carefully review the current call because the requirements differ by fellowship category.
How to Apply?
Applicants should review the current E-YUVA guidelines and identify the appropriate fellowship category and eligible centre. Create an account on the BIRAC website and complete the online application form. Undergraduate teams may have one member create an account on behalf of the team. Prepare a clear proposal describing the innovation, research plan, intended application and potential societal or commercial value. Ensure the required mentor support and supporting documents are in place, then submit the application online before the deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 31 October 2026.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
