Biotecnika Times 11th June 2019 Edition - Govt Sector Job Special

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GOVT SECTOR BIOTECH & LIFE SCIENCE JOBS Top 10 Lab Techniques Every Researcher Must Know Top 10 Ph.D. Research Topics GET THIS NEWSPAPER e-copy VIA WHATSAPP every week GIVE MISSED CALL TO

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Career Options In Govt Sector After Msc Biotech / Life Science At last, career planning in India is slowly and steadily waking up and has started to take notice of the life sciences.

NEWSPAPERS ARE DEDICATING ENTIRE SECTIONS TO THE BREAKTHROUGHS IN THE BIOLOGICAL SPHERE — FROM ADVANCEMENTS IN STEM CELL TECHNOLOGY TO GM FOODS AND OIL-SPILL CLEANING BACTERIA, THIS FIELD IS MAKING WAVES LIKE NEVER BEFORE, WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF CAREER OPTIONS.

By Ms. Urmimala Ray

So, if you are passionate about biology, a medical college is not the only career option to consider! A career in Life Sciences is a unique blend of knowledge, innovation, discovery, and science. The subject traces all the traits of origin to evolution and development of living beings and discovers theories that aid the human race and the environment in diverse manners.

One can opt for Life Science not only as a career opportunity but as a means to serve humanity.

interview. However, the syllabus may vary from state to state. The exams are conducted separately and differently for various government job posts, starting from a lower level of posts to high-level posts. Eligible candidates are then shortlisted and then are later made to write the next level of exam.

The process goes on according to the priority of the job.

Getting a good job in the Govern- Some of the common govt employment sector is a dream come true for ment areas for candidates seeking many. There are numerous Govt Sec- Govt Sector Msc Biotech Job are listtor Msc Biotech Jobs available. It all ed below: depends on your knowledge & job search strategy. One stands a chance • Medical laboratories to get a good job by passing the vari- • Testing Laboratories ous exam conducted by – PSC, UPSC • Seed and Nursery organizations and SSC (Staff Selection Commis- • Biotechnology Firms • Government Colleges sion).

• Agricultural Research Organizations Government jobs are something that not only the citizens need, but also • Botanical Survey are important for the entire nation. • Hospitals Government jobs are the only option • Medical research for stable pay to people and stable • Food Institutes running of the system. Hence this • Wildlife and Fishery Departments whole process of selecting people to • Public Schools fill into the job sector doesn’t come easy. That’s what the Public Service Commission does. Public Service Science and Research: SRF/JRF/ Commission Exams are mainly con- PA ducted to recruit people for a different governmental job position within the One sector that will never ever see states. Public Service Commission a latent phase in hiring is Science conducts exams for Biology candi- and Research sector. Presently, India dates as well like – The Indian Forest is under a massive need for science and research employees to carry out Service Exam – (IFS) Exam. their experiments/patents/technologThe pattern of PSC exam is almost ical researches, etc. This particular similar to the Union Public Service sector offers unprecedented growth, Commission, i.e. prelim + mains then financial security and professional

growth. There are over 10,000 jobs Govt Organizations Hiring JRF/ for science and research students/can- SRF Scientific/ Education Officer: didates, with much flexibility offered DBT, DST, SERB, Several Govt secto especially women job seekers. tor Schools like Kendriya Vidyalaya, Navodaya Vidyalaya, NCERT Hire With a masters degree in life scienc- for this post frequently. Candidates es, one has two academic options: with experience in the field. Candidates with PhD degree are preferred.

1. To settle down as an Associate Professor, leading to assistant profes- CSIR NET Qualification is mandasor and finally to Professor[depend- tory in order to match the eligibility ing on the university norms]. criteria for Govt Sector Msc Biotech 2. Pursue Ph.D. as a junior research Job. All Govt organizations hire fellow and senior research fellow candidates for research job based – obtain a Doctorate degree in 3+2 on CSIR-NET / ICMR JRF / DBT / years and then Settle down as Scien- GATE qualification. tist.

Laboratory Manager For both of these, clearing a national level exam NET/SET (SLET) is a Job profile includes maintaining lab must. After which, the candidates can equipment performance by establishapply for a Government research in- ing quality standards, creating operstitute. ations, quality, and troubleshooting processes. They have to ensure staff Scientific/ Education Officer compliance, certify instrument performance and arrange for equipment They need to work in coordination replacement, service, and repair. A with the State Director and the Sen- lab manager also maintains equipior Education Officer to effectively ment supplies inventory, checks and and efficiently roll-out the certain determines inventory level, anticiscience-related programmes at the pates needed supplies, places orders Government Schools, where they for supplies and verifies receipt of have to liaise with the State Govern- supplies while coordinating with purment Dept. of Education in starting chase department. the program, manage and coordinate with Principals and Teachers for ac- Govt sector Organizations Hiring tive implementation, organize train- Lab Manager: THSTI, CDSA- THSing, workshops and EcoFest and also TI, All Research Labs under CSIR need to monitor the timely and efficient implementation of project activities by the Teachers according to the agreed/ approved work plan.

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hiring Lab Managers very frequently.

Candidates with Masters degree in Life science / Biotech or candidates with a bachelors degree with experience are considered for this post.

Application scientist They need to create SOPs, train technical staff and manage them for efficient delivery of the technical services. They are also expected to carry out method development and assist the user with data acquisition and interpretation. Provide teaching assistance to students and trainees wherever required.

Govt Organizations Hiring Application scientist: All ICMR & CSIR Institutes Hire Application Scientists.

THSTI – CDSA, IBAB, Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), DBT are also among the top hiring Govt Organizations for Application scientist post. Candidates with Masters degree in Life science/biotech are preferred but with 3-5 years of experience. Fresh PhD candidates and Experienced candidates are mostly desired.

Technical officer This job profile includes validating equipment and methods as per the SOPs for the various technical processes, Carrying out testing of samples as per the SOPs, and maintaining equipment in a qualified state and provide technical services to the consumer scientists.

Jobs in Govt Public health sector This job profile will demand concurrent monitoring of the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey, supporting in supervision and monitoring of field monitoring activities in each zone.

This is a good employment option for high performing professionals with a desire to serve the public health needs of the country with the requirement of extensive travel to various states for oversight monitoring visits.

Senior Pharma Associate They are involved in handling DPCO(Drug Price Control Orders) / DPEA / overcharging cases along with other related work assigned in NPPA, The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority, a government regulatory agency involved in controlling the prices of pharmaceutical drugs in India.

Govt Institutes hiring Senior Pharma Associate – Indian Pharmacopoe-

ia Commission (IPC) is the top hiring institute for this post, along with other institutes that fall under Ministry of science & technology. ICMR institutes also hire for the post of Senior Pharma Associate. Masters with Life science degree / Pharma degree / Chemical Science degree is preferred for this post.

Wildlife Conservationist Typically employed by governments and NGOs, wildlife conservationists are involved in protecting wild animals and their habitat from destruction. It is a great career opportunity for people who love the outdoors. A degree in Wildlife Conservation and Biology is the definite launchpad for a career in this field. A good grasp over biology and geography is essential.

Marine Biologist Studying the degradation of ocean environments and offering solutions for sustainable development is what a marine biologist does. They will definitely find employment with governments, NGOs and academic institutions, for specific functions such as product development and formulation of new processes. Core skills required are the appreciation of marine life, scientific temper, curiosity, and data analysis.

Ecologist

the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change – Like Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Botanical Survey of India (BSI) & Wildlife Institute of India (WII).

Successful Forensic Science graduates can also find a lot of opportunities in government agencies, hospitals, and laboratories. It depends on one’s area of specialization.

Apart from these, some non-traditional Govt Sector Msc Biotech Jobs are also available in the Central Intelligence Agency, Department of Defense or Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Successful graduates of the course are lucratively hired in both private and government sectors, with an initial average annual salary ranging between INR 2.5 and 7 Lacs, depending upon the candidate’s expertise in the field.

– Regulatory affair: is a subject that deals with the regulation of medicines that may be devices, active ingredients, biologics, formulations as well as intermediates. It is controlling the aspects of quality, safety, efficacy and manufacturing practices of drugs, by government bodies with the help of acts and legislation. The procedural and scientific guidelines are always routed through the relevant legislation. One also has a prospect in this field.

– Patent examiners: In this field, you could work as a patent examiner or patent lawyer (patent attorney).

Usually, patent examiners are employed by the Government to review patent applications and decide whether to grant them or not. As a patent examiner, one can be searching for literature and patent databases to determine if the application is innovative and meets the requirements for a new patent

Generally employed by government agencies, NGOs and research organizations, the job of an ecologist is to study ecosystems and make a record of the plant and animal life that thrives in the area. Ecologists get a chance to divide their time between working indoors and in the field. Their studies help policymakers devise plans for sustainable development and utilization of natural resources. Ecologists Top Government Organizations / can find careers in conservation and Institutes Hiring Biotech / Life Sciforestry. Foresters oversee and pro- ence Candidates : tect forest environments by directing recreational, environmental, econom- • Department of Biotechnology ic and conservation activities. Con(DBT), Govt of India and one of servation scientists help farmers and its public sector enterprise – Bigovernment agencies to conserve waotechnology Industry Research ter, soil, and other natural resources.

Assistance Council (BIRAC) Ecologists in research positions col- • DRDO-DEBEL (Defence Biolect and analyze soil, food, water, and engineering and Electromedical air data. One of the core skills for an Laboratory) ecologist is to have an appreciation of • The Directorate of Forensic Scinature and wildlife, love of the outence Services (DFSS), a noddoors, good presentation and commual organization of Ministry of nication skills, observation skills.

Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India For Wildlife Conservationist, Ma- • Various institutes under the Minrine Biologist & Ecologist post one istry of Environment, Forest and must apply @ Various institutes under Climate Change – Like Zoo-

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logical Survey of India (ZSI) & Botanical Survey of India (BSI), Wildlife Institute of India (WII) • Centre for Cellular And Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP), an initiative of Dept of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Govt. of India, running cutting edge Life Science Research and Innovation.

• CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT SERVICES AGENCY (CDSA), a unit of THSTI, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Govt. of India • Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB), an academic institution established by the Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India having regional and global partnerships to synergize with the programs of UNESCO as a Category II Centre.

• • Government of India, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), one of the oldest and largest medical research bodies in India, for the formulation, coordination, and promotion of biomedical research, funded by the Government of India through the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

• Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), a National Centre of the Government of India, under the umbrella of the Department of Atomic Energy • IIFPT – Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology, Thanjavur.

• The Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, a system of central government schools that fall under the aegis of the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD).

• Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry • Govt of Karnataka, EMPRI – Environmental Management & Policy Research Institute • Punjab State Council for Science & Technology – PSCST • Bharat Immunologicals & Biologicals • ICAR – Indian Council of Agricultural Research • Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) • NCERT – National Council of

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Education & Research Training • Central Silk Board – Ministry of Textiles – Govt of India • Tea Board of India • National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS) • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare – eg: National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) Competition is very tough to get a Government job as lakhs of candidates applies for just a few hundred seats. While hard work definitely is the key to get success, possessing some additional skills may take you the extra mile.

Government research jobs will require the independent ability to carry out secondary research, ability to write proposals and carry out project management where necessary, ability

to search data sources to cull relevant information. And very importantly candidates must possess strong analytical skills and be self-initiated and self-driven. A thirst for knowledge is required in order to keep oneself updated; in research, a determination to succeed is certainly a required characteristic. The most important attributes students need to have interests in biological sciences and creative thinking. Computational skills and IT experience can also be helpful Some Govt sector job recruitments have very specific needs such as certificate courses/lab hands-on training/internships or even desired work experience in the required field.

• School teaching jobs/ Post Graduate Teachers (PGT) – Biology will require a B.Ed degree or

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equivalent qualification from a recognized University. Candidates also will be expected to have at least some basic computer skills. While government lecturer jobs may demand comprehension of the education system and teaching methods with classroom teaching experience.

• Experience in monitoring and/ or management of public health program or community-based research project may be a requirement for public health sector jobs.

• Understanding of the issues faced by specific Life Science sector, and having adequate knowledge of policy and regulatory landscape are also important.

• Some technical jobs may require the candidate to possess the ability to gauge industry needs and

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represent them in a cogent form to the relevant stakeholders.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills are always icing on the cake for any job.

Along with which, one should also possess good coordination abilities with Industry, Government, multilateral and bilateral agency, consultants, etc.

Proficiency in the local language may also be a contributing factor for some of the state-specific jobs.

A forward-looking attitude, resourcefulness, and initiative are facets that are always desired in any potential candidates.

Analytical, communication and interpersonal skills are valuable skills that every aspirant should cultivate.

Top 10 Lab Techniques Every Researcher Must Know A Researcher on an average spends 4-5 years of his life in the laboratory. The entire time is dedicated for setting objectives, designing experiments, conducting experiments, recording and analyzing experiment outcomes, interpreting and concluding the experiment outcomes for publishing the results.

AMONG ALL THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP IS CONDUCTING EXPERIMENTS WHICH ARE PRACTICAL, UNLIKE THE REST WHICH ARE THEORETICAL AND ARE FEASIBLE.

By Manisha

In order to find the best results for the experiments, it is essential to be very crafty with the instruments and to be skillful with wet lab techniques.

A life science researcher has the liberty to choose any field of research based on their interest from the wide array of research areas such as molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, and animal or plant biotechnology. Each field has its own set of experiments requiring different techniques and use of different lab instruments. But as no matter whatever words you want to write you must learn the alphabet first, in a similar manner each researcher needs to learn some useful lab techniques to be efficient in wet lab experiments.

Top 10 Lab Techniques Every Researcher Must KnowBlotting is the most common lab technique widely used in the field of cell & molecular biology. It is an extremely useful multi-step technique used in the identification of different biomolecules such as DNA, mRNA, & protein during different stages of gene expression or for identifying specific proteins from a complex mixture of proteins after In this article let’s have a look at Lab extraction from cell – the applications Techniques Every Researcher Must are many. Blotting techniques are of following types: Know – Top 10 List 1. Blotting Techniques

• Southern Blotting – widely used

Other alternative blotting techniques are also available based on the experiment requirement. Looking at its wide range of application it is a must learn lab technique for all who want to build a career in research. Only theoretical knowledge is not going to suffice, sufficient hand on training experience with all type of blotting technique will help you conduct ex• Western Blotting – identification periments & research at much ease in of specific antibody in complex, your Ph.D. or at Work.

Confirmatory texting for HIV, Hepatitis B infection & mad cow disease. in gene mapping, gene discovery, analysis of genetic patterns and in Transgenic, Forensic & evolutionary studies.

• Northern Blotting – gene expression analysis at mRNA level, also used in the study of RNA degradation, RNA splicing & determining RNA half-life.

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2. Techniques For Extraction & Storage of Biomolecules Top 10 Lab Techniques Every Researcher Must KnowThe most common biomolecules used in laboratory experiment include DNA, RNA, and Proteins. There are fixed protocols for extraction of these biomolecules.

RNA being very sensitive to degradation has to be extracted with the utmost care. The extraction protocol includes the use of different reagents with different roles playing in the extraction of the purest biomolecule. It is important for the researcher to learn the significance of each reagent and use them properly as per the requirement of the experiment. It is also required to have a clear idea regarding proper storage condition of the molecules to store them for long term use.

3. Gel Electrophoresis For any molecular analysis such as analyzing DNA, RNA and protein have to be done by gel electrophoresis. So it is important to learn using the electrophoretic apparatus and also to cast the gel properly. The quality of gel will provide a transparent and accurate result. Top 10 Lab Techniques Every Researcher Must KnowWhile preparing gel for casting the most important part is an accurate proportion of ingredient (agarose%/ PA), as this will affect the pore size which in turn will determine the experimental outcome. While agarose gel is used for the analysis of DNA, PAGE (polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) and SDS (Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate)-PAGE are used for proteins. Agarose gel electrophoresis is the most effective way DNA analysis based on size. Gel electrophoresis is widely used in molecular biology and biochemistry labs in areas such as forensic science, conservation biology, and medicine.

Some key applications of the technique are listed below: • In the separation of DNA fragments for DNA fingerprinting to investigate crime scenes • To analyze the results of polymerase chain reaction • To analyze genes associated with a particular illness • In DNA profiling for taxonomy studies to distinguish different species • In paternity testing using DNA fingerprinting • In the study of structure and function of proteins • In the analysis of antibiotic resistance

• In blotting techniques for analysis of macromolecules.

• In the study of evolutionary relationships by analyzing genetic similarity among populations or species Though this lab technique is taught at graduation level itself to all life science students, it’s very limited. One must be thorough with the entire Gel Electrophoresis protocol, including the process, its limitations, error rate & applications. This technique once mastered will be with you till you are into the research field.

4. Microscopic techniques Looking deeply and clearly is very important in the field to science as in this field for every statement you make, you should always have the reliable experiments and results justifying the statements scientifically. A microscope is used widely in a huge myriad of topics in science specifically to understand life at its core and to carry out crucial experiments. With the constant advancement in the field of microbiology, we can visualize from bacterial, plant and animal cells to the structure of macromolecules present inside the cell.

Remember the first day in the college laboratory when you were able to see a beautiful Top 10 Lab Techniques Every Researcher Must Knowmosaic of stained plant cell under the compound microscope and the smile that it brought on your face!! It’s always exciting and novel every time to see life at a microscopic level, isn’t it!!

Like fluorescence microscope which is popularly being used in the field of biomedical research. It helps to deduce information related to the functioning of the cells specifically from the light emitted by certain molecules which are tagged by fluorescence dye. A certain field in science doesn’t make any sense without the presence of microscope like for example the field of histology. Histology is a very interesting field which studies the tissues at the microscopic level. This field helps us to understand functional morphology as well as the dynamics of tissues. Hence this field is gaining popularity lately in its application in the field of cancer and alike diseases.

In the most advanced recent technologies, which are being used to construct microscopes, the most fascinating ones are the real-time complex ones which give live footage regarding the interactions between organisms and intracellular dynamics.

These real-time microscopes can also

record these engaging phenomena.

Like in IISER, Pune Dr. Milind Watve had demonstrated how predation occurs in microbes with the help of one such real-time microscope which also helped him to understand various novel phenomenon occurring around this idea. Looking back in history as well, complex and crucial scientific events have been discovered with the help of a microscope. To name a few, the following are some of the interesting lists of such events discovered with the help of microscope: • Krebs Cycle by Hans Krebs (1937) • Cell division by Walther Flemming (1879) • Neurotransmission (between the late 19th century and 20th century) • Photosynthesis and cellular respiration by Jan Ingenhousz in the 1770s “An eye of science” a precise description is given to the word microscope. The microscope was, is and will always be a right hand of science and hence every researcher should consider having an optimum knowledge in this vast field in order to progress and understand science at a minuscule level.

5. Polymerase Chain Reaction This is one of the most important techniques in the field of molecular biology. It is not only a revolutionary technology but is also very cost effective – using which millions of DNA copies can be developed with just one single DNA strand as a base.

Polymerase Chain Reaction technique is widely used in both medical & biochemical laboratories – is a prime part of almost all types of experiments. Few of its applications are listed below: • DNA sequencing • Chai Bio -Open QPCR – Purchase @ labs.biotecnika.org • Detection of genetic mutations • Cloning & expression profiling • Tissue typing during organ transplantation procedures • Genetic fingerprinting • miRNA research • Parental testing – in forensic cases • Formulation of cancer therapy treatments • Early detection of various types of cancer & HIV • DNA sequencing, cloning & gene expression • Well, these applications are just a few out of several other. For one

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with a dream of making a mark in the research community, this lab technique will be an asset for you. Highly advanced PCR machines are being developed by manufacturers globally – one must know about them as well.

In short, keep updated yourself with the latest advancements & changes in terms of PCR machines, Technique & usage by referring to research papers & research trends.

6. Cell Culture Techniques Culturing of bacterial cells, plant and animal cells are highly essential for microbial, cellular and molecular biology. Microbial culture is of the best techniques to study the physiology, biochemistry, and genetics of microbes along with the antibiotic screening. Also, microbes can be tested for the development of essential metabolites that can be implemented for commercialization of the product in large scale. Microbes specialized in the degradation of certain chemicals. Animal and plant cell culture is essential for studying cellular metabolism and the most effective method for studying the impact of drugs and chemicals.

Cell culture can be used to study mutagenesis and carcinogenesis by application of potent mutagens. The cells can also be screened for drug discovery and development. Learning this technique is one of the essential requirements of cell biology laboratories. Maintaining a sterilized environment, using suitable media, incubation, and storage of cells, subculturing at appropriate times are crucial for cell culture. Cell culture techniques include the knowledge of: • Design and Equipment for the Cell Culture Laboratory • Safety Aspects of Cell Culture • Sourcing of cell lines • Cell Types & Culture Characteristics • Storage of cells – cryopreservation • Cell Culture Protocols • Authentication of cell lines 7. Spectroscopic Techniques UV-visible and mass spectroscopes are mostly used for both qualitative and quantitative study of biomolecules such as proteins. Nucleic acids etc. UV-Vis is used in molecular biology as well as microbial studies

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as it is possible to assess quantification, purity of proteins and nucleic acids as well as determining the microbial growth curve. Similarly, mass spectroscopy is used for the determination of the molecular weight of proteins. NMR is used for structure refinement, prediction of protein structure, to understand the mechanism of the secondary structure of a protein by protein folding, conformational dynamics, DNA/RNA simulation, protein simulation, etc. Some of the chromatography techniques & its types are mentioned below.

• UV- Visible – Qualitative and quantitative assay of proteins, nucleic acids • Circular Dichroism – Secondary, tertiary structures of proteins • Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer – Detection of metal ions in biological samples • NMR – Structure of large organic molecules • IR – Analysis of functional groups in compounds 8. Chromatography Technique Chromatography is based on the principle of exploitation of the partition effect that distributes the molecules into different phases thus complex mixture broken into individual components. In most of the chromatography lab techniques, a stationary phase and a mobile phase is used for separating the molecule. So in other words chromatography is a set of techniques used to separate biological molecules based on their partitioning between a stationary and a mobile phase.

• Thin layer chromatography is used to separate proteins amino acids etc.Top 10 Lab Techniques Every Researcher Must Know • Ion exchange chromatography is a commonly used chromatographic method for separating the charged molecules such as proteins, polypeptides, nucleic acids, and others. The principle of ion exchange chromatography is the two-way exchange of the (ions) present in the solution with those electrostatically bound to the insoluble support medium.

• Affinity chromatography techniques are based on separating proteins as there is specific binding of the protein to their ligands or receptors. Some of the receptors or ligands, for instance, the antigenic epitopes and the active sites of enzymes exhibit high specificity to the protein of inter-

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est and affinity chromatography takes advantage of these biospecific interactions for Protein purification essentially in one step.

• Size exclusion chromatography.

– Proteins are separated based on their size. When protein molecules pass through the gel the smaller the size the more they get stuck through the sieve or gel hence elute later. Large molecules elute faster they move avoiding the pores in the gel.

• High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography: In HPLC silica-based beads are used instead of polysaccharide bead. Because of high pressure and smaller size of the silica beads, this gives a higher number of theoretical plates resulting in superior resolving power to separate complex biological samples. Reversed phase chromatography (RP-HPLC) uses resins with small hydrophobic groups attached.

– Rasmol, for designing primersNEB cutter, etc these tools are important to be learned. As most genomic and proteomic work needs updated information, so researchers should be in practice with accessing molecular and biotechnology databases for any updated information. Bioinformatics altogether is a vast subject – with loads of individuals techniques like Molecular docking, Molecular Modelling, Programming languages like – Python, C, C++, SQL, and the list is endless.

B.sc / B.tech / M.sc / M.tech Biotech / Life science candidates need to learn the protocols of a flow cytometry lab technique in your academics, but don’t forget to get a hands-on experience on it too. Join a lab as an intern or do an internship or short course based on this topic. It will not only be an add-on for your CV but will also be extremely helpful in your research career or higher study ahead.

Molecular Modelling 4 Days Online

9. Flow cytometry This is a useful technique for cell sorting i.e separating different types of cells from a heterogeneous mixture of cells. This instrument is so sophisticated that it can be used to identify multiple physical characteristics of a single cell. The principle depends on the light scattering properties of the cell of your interest which is tagged with either dye or monoclonal antibodies on the cell surface or some specific intracellular molecules.

FACS allows the study of multiple populations of cells within a limited time. This instrument is highly essential for cell biology and animal/plant tissue culture laboratories. Thus candidates seeking a research career in these areas – get a hands-on experience on this technique soon.

10. Bioinformatics Tools Apart from being efficient in wet lab techniques, researchers who work in the field of genomics, proteomics should have a thorough idea regarding soft lab skills as well. For say to compare sequence homology – BLAST, to predict protein structure

Candidates interested to be extremely successful in their research career, comprehensive knowledge of Bioinformatics tools is a must. It is an emerging interdisciplinary research field and is progressively getting used in all type of research be it – cancer research or human genome mapping.

Thus start acquiring knowledge on Bioinformatics tools & techniques early in your career.

Workshop While these are some of the common Lab techniques every researcher must be thorough with, yet there are many more techniques in this vast field of bioscience like – NGS, CRISPR, etc – knowledge about which can also be gained eventually In addition to these instrumental & lab techniques, some general laboratory techniques have to be learned.

These simple techniques include sterilization by autoclaving, cleaning of apparatus, common reagent preparations, use of a centrifuge, laminar air flow, media preparation, plating and culture of microbes, serial dilution, optimization of different apparatus, water bath, making cotton plugs for culture tubes, etc. These techniques usually learned after practical exposure in the laboratory only. But before starting your career, a researcher has to be technically sound in all.

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Top 10 PhD Research Topics You Can Take Up in 2019

According to Albert Szent-Györgyi, the Nobel Prize winner in the field of Biochemistry, Research is to what everybody else has seen, and to think what nobody else has thought. Research should aim for innovative development, for a good cause towards society. Research literally means searching again for facts hidden inside what is right in front of us, cause and effect of a thing, exploring things to enhance socio-economic development.

RESEARCH OUTCOME SHOULD CONTRIBUTE TO MAKING EXISTING THINGS BETTER.

By Manisha

The world surrounding us is full of mystery. So many things are there to be discovered and explained why they are the way they are. With the emergence of a new era as we are creating something new, parallelly those discoveries create unwanted problems altering natural balance as well. So if the invention is for the enhancement of lifestyle at the same time it is our duty to develop strategies to restore the balance of nature.

Some of the important concern of today’s world includes saving the planet against unwanted plastic pollution, fighting severe life-threatening diseases, developing a strategy for the conservation of threatened animals, developing innovative alternative natural resources, etc. So a researcher can definitely use his/her creativity in contributing any solution for any of the concerns mentioned above.

In this article, we have summarized a few PhD Research Topics that can be taken up by the researchers in 2019.

Microbial degradation of plastic Generating waste is a natural process. In order to manage the waste natural decomposers are there who help in cleaning the environment and recycling also. But as more and more synthetic products are developed accordingly decomposers are not developing. Moreover, decomposers are living organisms capable of degrading only organic and a limited number of chemicals. Due to the population explosion, the extensive use of substances has led to the accumulation of a huge amount of plastic wastes.

Plastic wastes not only polluting the earth rather they have now invaded into destroying the oceans as well.

It’s not possible to completely forbid these substances. As most of these are non-biodegradable, so one alternative is either we find a biodegradable substance or we genetically modify the available microbes for degradation.

Certain microbes have been identified

as potential plastic degraders such as Bacillus cereus, that can degrade polyethylene with an efficiency of 72%.

Similarly, other potential microbes Pseudomonas putida that can degrade milk packets are there. So they can be screened and a thorough genetic study may help in identifying particular genes and their products responsible for this plastic degrading quality.

Once genes are identified, they can be cloned or altered to enhance the efficiency of the microbes.

Biofuel Production The human population has expanded to such an extent that the availability of non-renewable energy resources has come down to a critical point.

Most of the stored organic fuel in the interior of the earth has already been excavated. So it is high time to search for alternative sources of fuel that is economic and environmental friendly, such as biofuels. Although crops and other plants that store oil could provide a source to be used as biofuel, this will lead to a food crisis. So the better alternatives include photosynthetic algal groups which are also rich in terms of oil storage. Some algal species such as Euglena, Tribonema, and Ulothrix are good potential sources of biofuel production. Biofuel extraction from algae is easy and economic. The approximate oil content of algae is 20-80% which can be converted to fuel forms such as kerosene and biodiesel. Once the genes involved in regulating the synthesis of oil is identified, gene manipulation technologies can be used to enhance

the oil production in the organism and nate viruses from the body. As per the subsequent commercialization of the declaration by FDA HIV cure should product. research should include any scientific approach that will result in controlling As per reports, a private US com- viral load up to such an extent that the pany successfully operated for sever- patient won’t need any medical assisal years for commercial-scale (2 ha) tance for survival. Hence recently the production of Haematococcus pluvia- research area of HIV has been shifted lis for biodiesel annual averaged rate from treatment to cure. of achieved microbial oil production equivalent to 420 GJ ha1 yr1. It was The major problems in developing a also claimed that a rate of 3200 GJ/ cure for HIV is the presence of quiesha/ yr was achievable using Chlorella cent viral reservoirs in the body that thus eliminating fossil fuel emissions are unresponsive to ART. At present, of CO2 of about 6.5 gigatons of car- the research is oriented in developing bon (GtC) per year. It was also expect- a biomedical cure by sustained ARTed that some algal biodiesel process- free suppression of HIV by eliminates, such as the one being developed at ing all the latent viral reservoirs and the University of Utah, would be cost a functional cure to control the recompetitive with regular diesel. Xu bound of the virus without complete(2006) in China also reported the pro- ly eliminating this in absence of ART. duction of biodiesel using Chlorella So definitely this field gives a broad protothecoides at a scale of 11,000 L. research area to invent a sustainable So it definitely makes it a good PhD cure for HIV. Research Topics with better scopes for the future.

Phylloremediation, a Solution for air pollution Finding a cure for HIV Air pollution has become one of HIV has been one of the most dan- the biggest concerns in some develgerous diseases ever affecting man- oping countries like India and China kind. As the virus attacks the immune because of their excessive population system itself treatment and cure of and economic growth. Polluted air is this disease become challenging. severely affecting the well being of the Scientists working intensely across local inhabitants as it can be directly worldwide have successfully devel- inhaled resulting in primary respiraoped the ART (Antiretroviral therapy) tory disorder. Small air filters have for the treatment of HIV. Although been invented by various scientists in ART has achieved great success in order to remove contaminants from terms of controlling the mortality rate of HIV infected persons until now there has been no absolute cure developed which can completely elimiNext Page>>>>

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the surrounding. But these devices are effective within a limited radius.

In order to find a large scale purifier definitely, plants and plant-associated microbes can be exploited.

Previous reports indicate the potential capacity of leaf and leaf associated plants in degrading pollutants such as toluene reduction by leaves of yellow lupine plants along with endophytic Burkholderia cepacia, poplar leaves, and the leaf-associated Methylobacterium sp. For the degradation of xenobiotic compounds.

So definitely Phylloremediation via plant leaves and leaf-associated microbes in bioremediation of air pollutants is an interesting and useful PhD Research Topic.

Cancer Prevention Research There is a saying “Prevention is always better than cure”. In the past few decades, cancer has aroused as one of the most panics striking human diseases. A lot of research work is going on in order to treat and at least slow down the progress of the disease. Last year the Prestigious Nobel Prize was awarded to James P. Alison and Tasuku Honjo for their magnificent discovery of cancer immunotherapy. So research has advanced to the extent of curing the disease but the prevalence of the disease in the population is highly significant. At this stage, it is really important to pay attention to controlling the outbreak of disease by finding the mechanisms linked with the onset condition. The major research topics could be understanding the biochemical mechanism behind association of common causes such as obesity and diabetes with cancer, exploring the activity of the immune system such as recognition pattern of healthy self and nonself foreign cells and strengthening the immune system to fight more effective against unhealthy cancerous cells, if drugs used treatment of other diseases have any significant role in cancer development etc. Obesity-associated cancer can be explained on the basis of the mutagenic effect of dietary components or hormonal imbalance. As per some recent evidence, chronic inflammation in cancer risk is due to inflammation-induced activation of the kynurenine pathway and its part in feeding and metabolism by activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and by modulating synaptic transmission in the brain. The role of the kynurenine pathway in carcinogenesis provides a potentially major link between obesity and cancer.

Another latest hypothesis is based on evidence that serine proteases can de-

plete cells of the tumor suppressors Deleted in Colorectal Cancer (DCC) and neogenin. These enzymes include mammalian chymotryptic proteases released by pro-inflammatory neutrophils and macrophages.

With food intake, there is a direct increase in blood levels of chymotrypsin. The mechanistically similar bacterial enzyme subtilisin is widespread in the environment, animal probiotics, meat processing, and cleaning products. Simple public health schemes in these areas, with selective serine protease inhibitors and AHR antagonists and could prevent a range of intestinal and other cancers. So the selection of this high profile PhD Research Topics that enables a research scholar to work at the best laboratories worldwide, is suggested.

Developing a survival strategy for the Secret Lion of Asia The Asiatic lion – Panthera leo ssp.

Persica is the only surviving species of lions in India. This beautiful and majestic species has been listed as endangered in the IUCN red list of threatened species. The remnant of this species is found only in the Gir forest of India as a single subpopulation threatened by a wide variety of risks. Among common threats such as poaching, unsuitable environment, conflict with humans, inbreeding depression leading to increased incidents of death is another major reasons behind the population growth.

As the population has reduced to a very small size the most harmful impact is seen as genetic inbreeding leading to loss of genetic diversity. If appropriate measures are not taken then the species may go extinct from earth.

So in-depth research analysis regarding the genetic status, the reproductive pattern, environmental influence on disease incidence could be done to predict possible conservation strategies. Some Modern Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has been recently proposed in the conservation, protection and development efforts of the Greater Gir Region by monitoring the animal population.

Such as GPS tracking (Surveillance Tracking) Automated Sensor Grid (Magnetic Sensors, Movement Sensors, Infra-red heat sensors, Night vision capability enhancement, GISbased real-time monitoring, analysis and report generation). This is a very unique PhD Research Topic – candidates with interest and matching the educational background must defi-

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nitely give a thought over this topic.

Development of early detection methods for fatal diseases Quite a significant number of diseases could be treated if they are diagnosed at early onset. Once the disease spreads control and treatment both becomes difficult. Most of the time the disease is detected after the onset of the symptoms. But prior to that, the diagnosis can be done using molecular markers. Ultimately it is the gene responsible for the protein expression which affects different characters including diseases. Gene is in turn regulated by a lot of factors such as modification of DNA bases, histone proteins, etc. Any change in the normal gene morphology and expression pattern will lead to mutant protein altering the cellular and physiological condition.

So by analyzing certain genes anticipated to be responsible for their contribution to certain diseases the prediction can be done. For example, a lot of research is ongoing in the early detection of cardiac arrest or an epileptic seizure, etc. So much more research is required in this field to explore validated detection methods for any numbers of known fatal diseases based on molecular markers.

are the most important requirement for biocatalyst enzymatic activity for a biochemical reaction. Synthetic supplement production has already been approved by the FDA, US. As a person may not be very well aware whether a diet he/she is taking is sufficient to meet the essential vitamin and mineral requirement in the body, the deficiency may lead to severe disease condition such as goiter (iodine deficiency), anemia (iron/folic acid deficiency). So more in-depth research can be done to find the role of essential micronutrient associated with particular diseases and accordingly better inexpensive easily available products can be developed from common sources and used by all. This can help in the maintenance of healthy condition strengthening of the immune system to fight diseases.

CRISPR: a gene-editing toolkit

The natural defense mechanism of the bacterial cells against bacteriophage infection has is now rapidly growing as a highly precise gene editing tool. The impaired inactivated CRISPR-Cas9 enzyme is now acquiring a lot more potential activity including gene regulation epigenetic editing, chromatin remodeling, imaging, etc and has become more efficient than the wild type cas9. Cystic fibrosis Development of synthetic dietary (CF) is a genetic disease that occurs supplement due to mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) For a healthy living, a balanced diet gene. The disease of CF is fatal as is required which includes carbohy- patients suffer from progressive lung drates proteins lipids as well as the most essential components such as minerals and vitamins. Minerals and vitamins though required in traces Next Page>>>>

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disease. CF models have been developed in 4 species (mice, rats, ferrets, and pigs) to enable understanding of the CF pathogenesis. Sheep may be of particular interest as a model CF for humans due to the similarities in lung anatomy between both species.

A sheep model for CF using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) techniques were generated using cells with CFTR gene disruption and used them for production of CFTR-/- and CFTR+/- lambs. The newborn CFTR/- sheep suffered from severe disease consistent with CF pathology in humans. The phenotype of CFTR-/sheep suggests this large animal mod-

el will be a useful resource to advance the development of new CF therapeutics. A lot more research is required basically to enhance the target specificity of CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat) for gene editing. Its the most trending PhD Research Topic lately, with loads of researchers working on this on a global scale.

human population constantly there is an increase in demand for food crops.

Again because of any number of anthropogenic activities environmental conditions are fluctuating. So agricultural plants are not getting adapted accordingly that leads to damage to the crops. So a researcher can analyze the crop plants in order to bring about the genetic modification for the properties like drought resistance, resistance Development of more & better ge- against pathogens and also modifying netically modified organisms. the plants to increase the yield with more nutritional value. Similarly, anGenetically modified organisms are imals used as food can be modified better adapted to environmental var- for better qualitative and quantitative iation as compared to wild type va- yield to meet the demands. rieties. Because of the expansion of

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Always the PhD Research Topic should be chosen as per the subject of interest with in-depth knowledge about it for future analysis. No matter whatever research topic is chosen by the researcher, the most important thing is setting right – the objective, experiment design and outcome of the experiment. Choosing a topic that is widely researched worldwide helps a researcher to set objectives for new discoveries with supported background knowledge and information.

Choosing a novel topic can help you in some significant contribution in the field that may promote new discoveries by other researchers.

BARC Researchers Invent Bacteria Killing Nano-Silver Coating Research SoP wherein SoP stands for ‘Statement of Purpose’. An SoP is a long essay about someone that is often asked by universities/Institution mostly abroad. This essay (usually about 1000 words) attempt to understand the candidate’s approach towards life, the motivations for the chosen career path and ultimately his/her goals.

THERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT ELEMENTS TO A STATEMENT OF PURPOSE OR A RESEARCH SOP AS IT IS FAMOUSLY REFERRED TO. THE UNIVERSITIES/INSTITUTES COULD ASK FOR QUESTION-BASED ESSAYS OR SIMPLY TO PRESENT YOUR STATEMENT OF PURPOSE. UNLESS A SPECIFIC FORMAT IS GIVEN, A RESEARCH SOP MUST COMPRISE A LIST OF YOUR GOALS, ACADEMIC PROGRESS AND YOUR FUTURE PLANS TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS.

By Dr. Tuluma Das

Other elements that are further important to the research SoP are also the personal motivations that lead you to choose the university/Institutes/ Program you have applied to as well as how you anticipate that experience to achieve the goal. A research SoP is your key to directly communicate with the admissions committee. To convince the committee that you have the spark, the thirst for knowledge that could add value to your work.

You should give yourself enough time to submit a clear, thoughtful, polished essay that will heighten your chances for admission. Writing a reasonably good ‘Statement of Purpose’ is not at all an impossible task. It requires intuitiveness, attention, and patience. You should take enough time to write the SoP, show them to your mentors, seniors or experienced people and polish if neces-

sary, the essay till you get the perfect version of your essay. If it is done in the right way, this will even turn out to be an enjoyable process for you as you will discover your purpose in life.

It should be as lively as possible so that you can convince the admissions committee that you are capable of a seat in the program.

Why do universities ask for a research SoP? The SoP assists institutes/universities decide if the applicants are really interested in the course of the program they’ve applied for, their capacity to pursue the application and completing it successfully, and whether they will have the ability to contribute significantly to the Institute. A good SOP helps applicants to highlight their strengths in the admis-

sion process like a proper cover letter or job application letter helps candidates present themselves successfully in the job market.

Importance of SoP in the Admission Process The SoP is one of the most critical components of your entire admission process. The SoP portrays the major impression of you to the admission officers. Your SoP will say a lot of things about you silently that a strong profile might never be able to reveal. The SoP highlights your attitude, ambition, clarity of thought and your personality; and carries the potential of leveraging low GPA and/ or average test scores (e.g. SAT, GRE or GMAT). The SoP gives you the chance to stand out from the crowd.

What do they seek in a STATEMENT OF PURPOSE? The primary question admissions committee members ask themselves while reading a Statement of Purpose is: What does this essay epitomize about the writer?

Try to imagine yourself in an admission officer’s shoes. From among thousands of applications, you have to choose the fraction of interesting, confident and enthusiastic students who will make the laboratory a stimulating research place. Academic achievements and good test scores are also important. It becomes increasingly difficult to select the wor-

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thy person to give the admission offer where the majority of applicants have good academic records.

It is true that each of the items present in the admission check-list like references, extra-curricular achievements add an extra dimension to your personality & the application overall but it is the SoP that brings you to life. That is the reason that each essay is read carefully by at least two and more before taking the final decision.

Do not think that the SoP is the main deciding factor. Your academic record, grades and the courses you have taken are the first things admission committee members turn to. Being from a reputed school or college confers a distinct advantage.

Another thing that you should keep in mind that you should not try to be something that you are not, rather project your inside honestly. It means you should be self-aware. The people who read your essay want to be convinced that you have thought enough about who you are, what are the things you are interested in, what inspires you, What you want out of life, and where you are going from here.

Finally, you must show a desire to become a skillful person and learn from books, your teachers, friends, music, art and from life itself. However, only the SoP or application essays can bring to the surface your individuality. As an applicant, if you are not taking enough care for the essay, you are discarding the best opportunity available.

Does it seem blurred to you? Continue reading to transform all these attributes into concrete steps to come out with perfect research SoP. What to include in your SoP? To begin with, this is not about the basic dos and don’ts of writing a statement of purpose. Arguably, an essay/SOP is perhaps the only aspect of the application that distinguishes you from the crowd. A personal statement lets you display how unique you are, how you are more than your scores and how you would be an ideal candidate and best suited for the university/ college. But we all know that. What we do not know is what we should include in the SoP to make it exceptional.

Following points may be included: -Personal/ Financial Background What students ought to understand

that when universities are screening your applications, they are looking for areas that highlight you. If your story is exceptional, do include that in your Research SoP. But, do not be endless to how humble your background was.

State it, as a matter of fact, and focus on how you defeated the same. For example, if you belong to a rural area, you can mention how you managed such a condition.

-Your extracurricular activities Sports, debates, clubs and other activities are ideal ways to highlight your leadership qualities. Working individually or more importantly in a team are important aspects of your personality. It’s important to let them know how much of an individual you are and what kind of a leader you are, whether you are a leader at all. Apart from that, your participation also draws attention to your ambitious personality and your determinative nature. It is also a way to lay focus on things you are passionate about.

-Your Failures Yes, it is important. In fact, it is a must!

Many students never talk about the failures that have made them what they are at present. If you flunked an exam or lost a tournament do not be ashamed to talk about them. The idea is to focus on your ability to bounce back from situations of personal/professional failures. They will be interested to know how self-assured you are about winning and on the other hand how positive you are to failures/ criticisms.

-Work Experience – part time, full time, voluntary, etc.

While MBA aspirants are required to provide mandatory work experience, the same might not be the case with other bachelors or masters courses.

But if you have any work experience, even voluntary – you can include it.

Do not consider it trifle as it is a twomonth summer job. The main point here is that you must have learned something during that project – the universities would be interested in knowing all about that.

– Published works, papers submitted, etc.

Did you submit a research report in masters or during graduation? Then mention it if it was an important aspect and you managed to get some appreciation. That talks about your ability to think scientifically and work

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towards a goal in a dedicated way.

Start writing in note form the things that come into your mind while reading this and start ranking them in order of their importance to you, and then according to the chosen career path. Keep the qualities that you wish to highlight about you and then start eliminating accordingly. This would help you understand what has led you to the decision of research in the future. Once you have understood your purpose simply project them in words.

deciding about scholarships. Hence, details about your financial status and requirements are not necessary for the SoP. Unless money has truly changed your personality, stay away from mentioning lengthy details about it.

-All your accomplishments

You may have several accomplishments in academics, sports, art, recommendations from your teachers, etc. but it is not necessary to mention each of them in the SoP. It should not be a brag sheet of your achievements.

You need to choose carefully only The next thing that matters is what those accomplishments that make the you should not include in your State- most sense to your candidacy. ment of Purpose.

Statement of Purpose is, in fact, the -Details about your Academic Promost important 1000 words that stand jects or Jobs between your application and admission to the research program. Just as It is important to include your acait is important to know all the things demic Projects in your Research SoP you should include in your SoP, but never go for explaining in detail equally or perhaps even more impor- about your project and what you did tant is to know what not to include in elaborately. Same applies for your your research SoP. work experience also. It is important to make a reference, illustrate perhaps Often Universities find a lengthy the incident and then talk about what statement of purpose, hence they dis- you have learned from it. Focus on card it. Even when you cannot find your key learning and how it transone grammatical error, the outwardly formed you into what you are. excellent SoP would be rejected. Here the primary reason is – too much un- Now that you know what all you necessary information. For instance, can talk about apart from your acajust because you might want to talk demics and your job profiles, maybe about your family, does not mean you you are buzzing to start writing that go on and on to talk about your fami- essay. So before you pick up the pen ly. This is not because the candidate is and start jotting down, remember, not aware of what to include, it is be- the key to a good essay is not includcause what he/she fails to understand ing everything about yourself but to what not to include. maintain the balance. Sometimes little yet heavy words matter a lot. Keep Few points that you should not in- it short, keep it simple and do it for a clude in an SoP: reason. Even if you are talking about saving an animal on the street or try-Family History ing your area’s residents understand waste management techniques, the Do not write too many words in essence of the essay should be your your Research SoP to describe your target in life. How motivated you are maternal and paternal family to the about achieving your aims and what admission committee. They have no are the things that matter to you. consideration if your forefathers descended from royalty or not – until that has something to do with the personality that you wish to emphasize.

Their focus is to understand you as a person. A small and brief statement, if absolutely necessary, should be enough to wrap up about your family.

Remember no family history will be entertained.

-Financial Details Often, universities demand separate documentation for your financial status. Sometimes universities/Institutes would ask the candidates to provide a separate essay for the same while

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Rose Named After First Indian Woman Botanist – E.K. Janaki Ammal E.K. Janaki Ammal is India’s First Women Botanist who played a great role in restructuring Calcutta’s Botanical Survey of India in 1951 on the request former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

SHE WORKED AT THE JOHN INNES HORTICULTURAL INSTITUTE (194045), WHILE SHE FACED MANY OBSTACLES IN HER CAREER BEING A WOMAN, BUT CAME OUT VICTORIOUS IN HER FIELD – ESPECIALLY THROUGH HER WORK ON SUGARCANE AND AUBERGINE.

By Preety Suman

Indian Plant breeders who hail from Kodaikanal – Girija and Viru Viraraghavan has named a new Rose variety – ‘E.K. Janaki Ammal’.

New Variety of ose named after Janaki Ammal Picture courtesy: John Innes Centre and The Sainsbury Laboratory, England Janaki was specialized in cytogenetics and her research work revolved Botany from the University of Mich- Later she worked closely with Diaround analyzing chromosome numrector, C.D Darlington and collaboraigan. bers in a variety of garden plants at tively published – Chromosome Atlas England. Her tremendous work & of Cultivated Plants’, in 1945 which Despite all this success, she still discoveries in the field of botany have Before the Viraraghavan couples led to the understanding of the evolu- could finalize on the name – they con- faced discrimination at work which is a key book for all plant scientists led her to move to John Innes Horti- across the globe. tion of species, and types. tacted Dr. Henry Noltie of the Royal cultural Institute in 1940. She settled Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh, ScotGirija in a statement said that they land – who told them about told us there and had experienced World War After returning to India, she conhave always wondered about Janaki about, Dr. Vinita Damodaran, Janaki II. As per records she used to hide un- tinued her research career at the Ammal’s remarkable contributions Ammal’s great niece, who is Head of der her bed during wartime bombings. Sugarcane Breeding Institute in Coimbatore, where she was instrumento plant science – back in 1966, Viru South Asian History at the University started breeding roses. She wanted of Sussex, UK. Upon seeking permis- As per records, it is said that Janaki tal in selecting the best varieties for to study Indian rose species but was sion from her – Dr. Vinita Damodaran had smuggled a palm squirrel named cross-breeding to produce the sweetnot sure on how to proceed and breed gladly said a yes and was delighted to ‘Kapok’ into the UK when she arrived est sugarcane while also analyzing them, thus they turned to the book know Aunt is being honored in such from the USA and the Kapok lived the geographical distribution of sugwith her at the John Innes Horticul- arcane across India.

– ‘Chromosome Atlas of Cultivated a way. tural Institute for many years.

Plants’ and started studying the ploidy in the rose species, she further added. Viru & Girija feel that this new

Girija further added that – Janaki did not get enough recognition for her work and died in oblivion. Her botanical research work has been remarkable so they felt they should definitely name the new Rose variety after her and honor her.

The couple said they bred Rosa clinophylla seedling and were testing it for many years, and they flowered in a medium-dark rich yellow color.

They had read that Janaki wore saris of only this particular color in her later years – hence were very sure to name the Rose variety after her color.

The parentage of this rose is: Landora x [Montezuma x {Little Darling x ( R.clinophylla x R.bracteata)}]. It has been classified as a Grandiflora, yellow blend color, fragrant, a tall growing shrub, disease resistant and continuous flowering.

rose hybrid can be a ‘pioneer’ in rose breeding, considering the fact that there exists very few rose varieties bred from Rosa clinophylla. Also, Rosa clinophylla is the world’s only tropical rose species and the center of its natural distribution is India.

Samples of this new Rose variety has been sent across to the John Innes Institute, the Royal Horticultural Society’s gardens in Wisley, and in the Botanical Survey of India’s gardens – places associated to Janaki Ammal.

About E.K. Janaki Ammal Janaki’s educational career started in India with a Bachelor’s degree and Masters degree in Botany from Presidency College in Madra in 1921.

She moved to the US a decade later, wherein she became the first Indian Women to receive a Ph.D. degree in

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Breakthrough Discovery – Scientists Recreate Cell Division Outside A Cell With the advancement of science, loads of mysteries of life have been unveiled by scientists.

BUT AT THE FUNDAMENTAL GROUND LEVEL, RESEARCHERS ARE STILL TRYING TO ANALYZE THE CORE PROCESS BEHIND HOW OUR OWN CELLS BUILD, MOVE, SPLIT AND TRANSPORT.

By Preety Suman

Margaret Gardel, a professor of physics at the University of Chicago headed an innovative study, under which for the first time scientists have successfully recreated the mechanism of cell division – outside a cell. The experiment, led by postdoctoral fellow Kim Weirich and published May 21 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, helps scientists understand the physics by which cells take out their regular tasks, and could one day lead to medical breakthroughs, ideas for new kinds of substances as well as artificial cells.

“How cells divide is one of the most basic facets of trying to create life, and it is something we’ve been trying to comprehend for centuries,” said study senior author Gardel, that unites physics and biology to study the methods by which cells change themselves.

Cells locomote through the body, but some of the very complicated motion happens inside the cell itself, as it ships ingredients and supplies from

place to place, flattens or expands, endings of the droplet and pinched off and divides to recreate itself. Among the droplet into two. the critical players in this biological process is actin, a protein which as- They were totally shocked to see the sembles itself into rods and structures. procedure, Gardner said. “There is no precedent for it. It looks exactly like Gardel’s team wanted to know the the spindles that induce cell division.” physics behind the actions of actin.

So Weirich turned into one of the Gardener long with Thomas Witten chief ways that scientists have for this – University of Chicago physicist and Vaikuntanathan, question: choose the ingredients and Suriyanarayanan try to assemble together outside the postdoctoral fellow Kinjal Disbaswas together turned this model into action. cell.

Weirich separated out actin proteins and observed as they shaped droplets that took on an almond shape. When Weirich inserted myosin (“motor” proteins shared in muscles), they found the center between the two

lel to the actin. But as more myosins gather, they begin to stick together, forming clusters that favor tilting instead of remaining parallel-so it pinches off into two. It’s the first such detailed look at the way the cell might accomplish this task.

Seeing this procedure –just how living things tap the construction of a droplet to form more life–is not just interesting but practical, Gardner said. “This is the kind of thing that you want to learn to envision buildThe rod-like actin molecules when ing things like artificial tissue for a in a droplet gets into parallel align- wound,” she said. ment to minimize conflict, forming the almond shape. The more myosin This article was adapted from a post molecules prefer to assemble at the at UChicago News. center so they can still remain paral-

labs.biotecnika.org

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Govt Allocates ₹896.09 Crore For TIFR Hyderabad Campus Development TIFR – Tata Institute of Fundamental Research has been allocated a fund amounting to ₹896.09 crore from the central government to develop its TIFR Hyderabad campus in Gachibowli for the period 2019-2024.

TIFR – THE TATA INSTITUTE OF FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH, MUMBAI, IS ONE OF THE MOST RENOWNED R&D INSTITUTES OF INDIA UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF ATOMIC ENERGY AND IS COMPLETELY FUNDED BY THE CENTRAL GOVT OF INDIA.

By Preety Suman

A detailed project proposal for TIFR Hyderabad Campus was submitted which was approved by Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) earlier in February 2019.

Land for the TIFR Hyderabad campus had been allocated by the Telangana government. In 2010 the found- till date in anticipation of fund aping stone for the same was laid by the proval for campus development. former Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh. TIFR had been running its re- Now with the Govt allocating search activities in rented premises ₹896.09 crore fund, TIFR plans to in-

itiate research projects with an objective of – ‘Life-Light-Matter’.

Currently, it’s working team comprises of 25 faculty members, 95 re-

search scholars in total, & approx 33 post-doctoral fellows at the campus.

The institute is projecting to double the numbers in the future.

Human-Made Invisible DNA To Study Pathogenic Bacteria Bacteria is omnipresent. Be its soil, water, our skin, and within our own bodies. Most of them are pathogenic and cause serious infections.

TO BATTLE THESE PATHOGENIC BACTERIAL SPECIES VIA EFFECTIVE REMEDIES, SCIENTISTS ON FIRST HAND NEED TO UNDERSTAND THE POSSIBLE GENES IN THE BACTERIA, RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PATHOGENICITY.

By Shekhar Suman

Researchers can identify pathogenic genes via genetic engineering – by inserting human-made DNA into a bacteria cell. The major problem encountered is that the bacteria have evolved complex defense mechanisms to protect themselves against foreign particles. Current genetic engineering approaches frequently to disguise the human-made DNA as bacterial DNA to hamper these defenses, but the procedure requires highly specific modifications and can be expensive and time-consuming.

In a paper published recently in the

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal, Forsyth Institute Scientists – Dr. Christopher Johnston and his coworkers have identified a novel technique to genetically engineer bacteria by making human-made DNA invisible to a bacterium’s defense systems. In theory, the procedure can be applied to virtually any type of bacteria.

Dr. Johnston said that when a bacterial cell detects the entry of any foreign particle, it immediately triggers a mechanism to destroys it. Bacteria live under constant danger of attack with a virus, so they have developed exceptionally effective defenses against those threats. The same issue is encountered by scientists when they try to insert a human-made DNA into a bacteria.

To get beyond this barrier, scientists add special alterations to disguise the human-made DNA and fool the bacterium to believing the intruder is part

of its own DNA. This approach sometimes works but may take considerable time and resources.

Johnston’s strategy differs. Instead of incorporating a disguise to the human-made DNA, he eliminates a particular part of its genetic arrangement called a motif. The bacterial defense system requires this theme to be current to recognize foreign DNA and mount an effective counter-attack. By removing the motif, the human-made DNA becomes virtually imperceptible to the bacterium’s defense mechanisms.

This new method requires less time and fewer resources than current practices. From the analysis, Johnston utilized Staphylococcus aureus germs as a model, but the underlying strategy he developed could be used to sneak past these significant defense mechanisms which exist in 80 to 90 percent of bacteria that are known now.

This new genetic technology tool

opens the possibilities for study on bacteria which haven’t been well studied previously. Since scientists have a limited quantity of resources and time, they have a tendency to work with germs which have been broken into, Johnston explained. With this new instrument, a substantial barrier to breaking bacteria’s DNA was solved, and researchers may use the method to more clinically important bacteria.

“Bacteria are the drivers of our planet,” stated Dr. Gary Borisy, a Senior Investigator at the Forsyth Institute and co-author of this newspaper. “The capability to engineer bacteria has profound consequences for medicine, for agriculture, for the chemical sector, and for the environment.”

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NOTICE : DST Increased Research Fellowship Arrears To Be Released As we have already been informed, Department of Science & Technology (DST) R&D Programmes fellowships has been revised.

THE OFFICIAL NOTIFICATION FOR THE PAYMENT OF ARREARS AND ENHANCED FELLOWSHIP TO RESEARCH PERSONNEL ENGAGED IN R&D PROGRAMS HAS BEEN RELEASED. CHECK IT OUT BELOW:

By Diluxi Arya

No. SR/S9/Z-08/2018 Government of India Ministry of Science & Technology Department of Science & Technology Subject: Payment of arrears and enhanced fellowship to research personnel engaged in R& D programs of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in connection with the recent revision of fellowship The Government has revised the fellowship of research fellows (JRF & SRF) and Research Associates (RA) working in R&D programs of the Central Government Departments/

Agencies vide DST OM No. SR/ S9/Z-08/2018 dated 30.01.2019 with effect from 01.01.2019.

2. Subject to availability of funds, Institutions in receipt of R&D projects from DST and Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) may pay arrears and enhanced fellowships to research personnel (JRF/ SRF/RA) who are eligible to receive revised fellowship as per the said OM

from respective project funds or internal resources of the grantee institutions with immediate effect. For grant of additional funds on account of the revision in fellowships, if necessary, the grantee institutions / Principal Investigators are requested to submit an arrear statement in the format given along with Statement of Expenditure (SE) and Utilization Certificate (UC) for 2018-19 to the concerned Programme Officer of DST / SERB.

3. The Autonomous Bodies of the DST may pay arrears as well as revised fellowships to JRF/SRF/RA engaged by them from their annual salary budget. For additional funds, if necessary, they may approach DST for enhancement in allocation.

4. This issues with the approval of Secretary, DST vide Dy. No EF24051 dated 23.04.2019.

NEWS

June 10th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 82

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Scientists Genetically Edit Chicken Cells To Stop Bird-Flu Group of researchers at Imperial College London & the University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute together have successfully used gene editing methods to prevent spreading of bird-flu in chicken cells in laboratory conditions.

THIS FINDING COULD MARK THE BEGINNING OF PRODUCTION OF GENETICALLY-ALTERED CHICKENS – THAT COULD STOP THE BIRD-FLU HUMAN PANDEMIC WORLDWIDE.

By Priyanjana Ghosh

Bird flu viruses currently are known to spread quickly in wild birds and poultry and can occasionally jump into humans. International medical & infectious disease specialists cite this as one of their biggest concerns – a threat of a human flu pandemic brought on by a bird flu strain that jumps & mutates to a mortal and airborne form which could pass easily tific journal eLife on June 4. between people.

“This is an important advancement By editing a section of chicken DNA that indicates we may have the abilwithin the lab-grown cells, investiga- ity to use gene-editing methods to tors averted the bird influenza virus produce chickens that are resistant by taking hold of the cells and repli- to bird flu,” McGrew said in a statecating. ment.

The following step will be to attempt to produce chickens with the exact same genetic change, stated Mike McGrew of the Roslin Institute, who co-led the research. The findings were due to be published in the scien-

“We have not produced any genetically altered chickens yet and we will need to check if the DNA change has any other impacts on the bird cells until we can take this next step.” he further added.

In the additional work, the team hopes to utilize the gene editing technologies, known as CRISPR, to eliminate a section of the birds’ DNA accountable for generating a protein named ANP32, where flu viruses depend to infect a host.

Laboratory evaluations of cells engineered to lack the gene demonstrated they resist the flu virus – blocking its entrance and stopping its replication and spread.

in influenza virology in Imperial who worked with McGrew, says the idea behind developing gene-edited flu-resistant hens would be to be able” to stop another flu pandemic at its source”.

And she explained the work thus far was showing promise: “We have identified the smallest possible genetic change we can make to chickens which may help stop the virus taking hold”.

Wendy Barclay, professor and chair

C-CAMP – BNV Innovation Hub To Support Biotech & Life Science Startups in India The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP), India’s premier bio-innovation hub Recently signed an LOI with Beyond Next Ventures (BNV), one of the leading accelerators in Japan committed to incubation investment in technology start-ups.

THIS COLLABORATION WAS SIGNED it aims to support start-ups in both WITH A MOTIVE TO ENCOURAGE & India & Japan through Exchange of PROMOTE INNOVATIONS IN THE human resources & technologies.

FIELD OF LIFE SCIENCES & BIODr. Taslimarif Saiyed, CEO & DiTECHNOLOGY IN INDIA. rector, C-CAMP said, “C-CAMP has

By Preety Suman been identifying and Supporting the most exciting early stage creations and today looks forward to nurturing many more such The two organizations: C-CAMP & high-risk high-return innovations at BNV intend to create the C-CAMP — an early stage through this cooperaBNV Innovation Hub (CBIH) which tion with This will be a Great start to will focus on facilitating Japanese in- build Indo-Japan collaborations for vestment of approx 5 million USD for highIndian start-ups working on ground- End innovations.” breaking technologies in the Life Sciences & Biotech. Simulatnaeulsy Mr. Tsuyoshi Ito CEO, BNV said,

“We are very excited to collectively launch the “C-CAMP Past Next Ventures Innovation Hub” (“CBIH”) in cooperation with the best incubator in India C- CAMP. As the very best accelerator and VC in Japan, we look forward to combining our expertise and extensive community

with C-CAMP to encourage new inventions in Japan and India. Through this collaboration, we plan to make full-fledged venture investments to the life sciences area of both India and contribute to the economic and industrial development in India in the long run.”

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NEWS

June 10th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 82

Notice : SERB NPDF National PostDoc Fellowship HRA Hiked As we have already been informed, many fellowships are being revised. The official notification for the National Postdoctoral Fellowship (NPDF) Scheme – Provision for House Rent Allowance has been released. You can check out all of the details on the latest revision and more below: SUBJECT: NATIONAL POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP (NPDF) SCHEME – PROVISION FOR HOUSE RENT ALLOWANCE

By Priyanjana Ghosh

National Postdoctoral Fellows under the SERB – NPDF Scheme has been provided with a research grant of Rs.2.00 lakh per annum in addition to a fellowship of Rs. 55,000/- pm (Rs. 35,000/- p.m for candidates who have submitted the thesis, but degree not awarded). Overheads amounting to Rs.1.00 lakh per annum are provided to the host institute to provide necessary administrative and infrastructural support to the Fellow.

2. The SERB Board has approved a provision to extend House Rent Allowance (HRA) to NPDF fellows as per prescribed rates applicable to Central Government employees.

3. The HRA benefit will take effect from 1st April 2019.

4. This issues with the approval of Secretary, SERB vide Diary No.2280/ SERB, dated 3/6/2019.

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NEWS

June 10th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 82

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CSIR NET Tips & Tricks Workshop + Mock Test Conducted Successfully

More than a coaching institute, we call ourselves – guidance providers. Be it Career guide or assistance for clearing biotech competitive exam like CSIR NET & GATE, we are there for all. Another unique venture by Biotecnika – conducted in the form of a FREE workshop to provide guidance to the students who are appearing for CSIR NET June 2019 Exam was successfully conducted on 28th May 2019.

THE WORKSHOP WAS CONDUCTED AT 3 BRANCHES OF BIOTECNIKA I.E. BIOTECNIKA NOIDA, BIOTECNIKA KOLKATA, AND BIOTECNIKA PUNE BRANCH.

By Preety Suman

With the whooping response and participation of a total of 110 students from all three branches, the workshop had an intriguing and enthusiastic audience.

The main aim of the workshop was to guide the students who are interested in giving CSIR NET examination.

The guidance consisted of detailed information and useful tips and tricks about the approach to be considered while preparing for CSIR NET life science examination. A plethora of knowledge consisting of strategies on how to choose important units from CSIR exam point of view to maximize the scores, how to select & study important sub-topics from each unit, standard reference books for each unit to be considered while studying, expected number of questions from each unit by looking at the history of CSIR etc were provided by the Biotecnika experts to the students at each center. Along with subject information and tips, strategies about how to structure your day efficiently to prepare for CSIR exam was also discussed.

datory exam for the life science students to be eligible for applying for research and teaching positions. But during the graduation and post-graduation years, students are not made aware regarding this fact as well as not guided properly regarding how to prepare for CSIR NET exam. We at Biotecnika identified this loophole and aimed at solving it with our efforts to reach maximum students and guide them efficiently regarding how to study and prepare for CSIR NET life science.

Young minds looking for right guidance appeared in huge number with anticipation drizzling from their eyes and zeal in their hearts at all the three Noida, Pune and Kolkata Biotecnika centers. As they entered, all the expertise faculties at different centers were all set to assist the students and took that accountability to contribute to the students’ careers. Each faculty shared useful tips and tricks initiating from selecting the units from the entire CSIR –NET syllabus. Students were infused with precise guidance on how they can adapt the strategy of incorporating quality rather than quantity in the mode of preparation. Valuable methods of solving the questions with the right approach and attitude, avoiding guesswork to elude negative marking which affects the final scores of students were discussed in the interactive sessions.

With life science being a vast field often we have multiple paths available to progress in terms of career. But with these multiple options available there is a risk as well about which path should one choose, and which will help achieve the target of becoming a successful scientific researcher or a lecturer. Students from various backgrounds from life science had attended this workshop and had such questions lingering in their minds since they got exposed to the real world after their Master’s. These questions were efficiently been addressed by the faculties at all the centers converting doubts into dreams in the minds of the students and influencing them to work smart and hard in order to at- Insightful information regarding essential topics from all the units was tain their goals. imparted unit wise by various faculCSIR NET has now become a man- ties. Students esteemed trying their

hands at the sample questions shared by the academicians. Time management – another fundamental aspect being the most common issue confronted by the aspirants was summed up in a synergistic manner. Practicing skills for questions from Part A based on numerical ability, subject-based questions from Part B and analytical questions from part C were discussed and imparted. The Students were conveyed to confer doubts and queries regarding CSIR –NET exam paper format, syllabus, time administration, and even any personal concerns they had.

Following the interactive sessions with the faculty, students were reflecting more confidence and comfort in their gestures. Enthusiastic aspirants were seeking career guidance and they were abetted till they were convinced. Apart from all the technical information provided, insights were presented as to how the students can work upon the stress piled upon during the exam time by adopting the buoyancy and optimism in their regular study pattern and behavior. They were conveyed about the significance of embracing a healthy schedule where health does not get compromised at the cost of exam preparation.

In continuation of that – a delicious meal was served for the students attending the workshop. After relishing the lunch break, they were given the prospect of evaluating themselves by means of writing the quest organized

by Biotecnika based entirely on the CSIR – NET exam scheme. Aspirants

were discerned to take the quest in a pragmatic approach. The workshop ended with the students leaving the venue, presenting their gratitude to the Biotecnika faculties and customer support team. By the end of the event, they could have been observed turned up into more poised and assertive individuals, taking all those treasured moments of the workshop along with them.

We are guiding hands to the bright lights of India’s future. With 13 years of experience in guiding students in the national level examinations like CSIR NET and GATE, it is our honor that we could be of some help to the bright students who want to clear CSIR NET. We found that bright light of dreams in every student which required a direction to spark without any inhibitions and we are happy to know from these student’s feedback that this purpose was being served from this workshop well.

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SCHOLARSHIPS

June 10th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 82

Janaki Ammal Scholarships for Indian Students

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he official notification for the Janaki Ammal Scholarships for Indian Students has been released. All of the candidates that are interested in pursuing higher studies opportunities abroad can check out the details on the scholarship below: Overview The John Innes Centre offers Janaki Ammal Scholarships to overseas postgraduate research students, who are nationals of eligible developing countries, to help enable them to study for a PhD degree at our institute.

The award covers the difference between the Overseas and UK/EU labbased postgraduate research tuition fees (e.g. a difference of £14,090 for the 2018/19 academic year).

Each award is tenable for a full-time three or four-year PhD degree programme of study at the John Innes Centre, subject to the satisfactory progress of the student.

The Janaki Ammal Scholarship is aimed at those students in receipt of some external funding. So, students must be able to provide evidence of additional funding to cover living costs (e.g. RCUK level is £14,777 in the 2018/19 academic year) and the residual Home/EU level of tuition fee (e.g. £4,260 for the 2018/19 academic year).

Applications are welcome from students wishing to study any aspect of plant and microbial sciences the John Innes Centre is currently engaged in.

Overseas applicants from countries not covered by the Janaki Ammal Scholarship may be eligible for a John Innes Centre International Scholarship.

About Janaki Ammal • Janaki Ammal (1897-1984) was one of the first women from India to obtain a PhD in Botany (Michigan USA 1931).

• She worked at the John Innes Horticultural Institution briefly in 1931 and 1935, followed by a longer period between 1940 and 1945.

• This led to the publication of the Chromosome Atlas of Cultivated Plants, which she wrote joint-

ly with the then Director, C. D. Darlington.

• She ultimately returned to India to continue a long and distinguished career in science.

Eligibility To receive a Janaki Ammal Scholarship while studying at the John Innes Centre, candidates must: • Have completed and submitted all relevant sections of a formal application online at the University of East Anglia (UEA) with all supporting documents for a full-time PhD research degree programme at the John Innes Centre with a primary supervisor who is a Project Leader at the John Innes Centre. No separate application for the Janaki Ammal Scholarship is required • Have completed the Research Statement on the application form and ensured two academic references are provided • Have been shortlisted by the prospective supervisor and interviewed in person or by video conference by that supervisor, another Project Leader and the Postgraduate Research Director from the John Innes Centre • Be in subsequent receipt of an offer of admission to register at UEA on a PhD research degree programme (other than the Rotation Programme) • Be assessed as Overseas for UEA lab-based postgraduate research tuition fee purposes • Be a national of one the developing countries listed • Not hold any other source of funding that will cover the cost of the Overseas tuition fee • Have met all conditions for admission to the UEA before admission Note, we review our scholarships from time to time.

Applicants should check this page to ensure they are aware of current eligibility criteria, procedures, and deadlines etc., at the time of their studentship application.

Eligible countries Eligible countries for the Janaki Ammal Scholarship are listed below.

Afghanistan Angola Armenia Bangladesh Benin Bhutan Bolivia Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Central African Republic Chad Comoros Congo Côte d’Ivoire Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Democratic Republic of the Congo Djibouti Egypt El Salvador Equitorial Guinea Eritrea Ethiopia Gambia Georgia Ghana Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras India Indonesia Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kyrgyzstan Lao People’s Democratic Republic Lesotho Liberia Madagascar Malawi Mali Mauritania Micronesia Moldova Mongolia Morocco

Mozambique Myanmar Nepal Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Pakistan Papua New Guinea Paraguay Philippines Rwanda Samoa Sao Tome and Principe Senegal Sierra Leone Solomon Islands Somalia South Sudan Sri Lanka Sudan Swaziland Syrian Arab Republic Tajikistan Tanzania Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vietnam West Bank and Gaza Strip Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe They are drawn from the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) list of Overseas Development Assistance Recipients (Least Developed, Other low Income, and Lower Middle Income Countries and Territories) as overseen by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) as of 1 January 2015.

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Upper Middle Income Countries are not eligible.

Application help and guidance Applications for all studentships should be made using the online application form on the University of East Anglia’s website.

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•

This guidance is written to help you submit the best possible application.

Applicants should fulfil the entry requirements for PhD registration at the University of East Anglia (UEA) and should have, or expect to obtain, a good Undergraduate Honours Degree (minimum of Upper Second Class or equivalent) Before you apply Ahead of submitting your application, you should prepare; • Official Transcripts (in English)

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•

of your Higher Education qualifications Evidence of your English Proficiency (if English is not your first language) – Details of English Language requirements for candidates can be found at: English Language Requirements Two references – We require two references and you will need to request these. At least one of these must be an academic reference. References will not be considered from supervisors of the project you are applying for Personal statement – Your personal statement must be no more than 500 words and should outline how your experience relates to undertaking research study with us Curriculum Vitae – Your CV should detail professional qualifications, publications and research interests when applying for a research degree (PhD, MPhil and MSc by Research)

• Research proposal/statement – follow instructions below for your type of application; • Advertised research project – Instead of submitting a Research Proposal, upload a Research Statement including why you are applying for the project, an outline of your relevant current knowledge and skills indicating how these will help you complete the research and your training needs. Please note that all Research Proposals/Statements must have been produced by you • Rotation PhD – You are not required to develop a research proposal. Describe your reasons for choosing Rotation PhD programme and how it fits with your long term career objectives. You should include three research areas of the participating institutes that you could potentially choose for your three mini-project in the first rotation year • Self-funded – If you are applying

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for a research degree that would be funded by yourself (including those that may be part-funded by one of our Scholarships for overseas applicants), you should include a research proposal of no more than 900 words, giving the name(s) of the research faculty member(s) working in your research area • Visiting students – If you are registered for a degree at another university and wish to undertake some of your studies at the John Innes Centre as a visiting student, provide a summary of what research you will be doing with us. Applying through UEA to be a visiting student at the John Innes Centre provides full access to the University’s facilities and support, plus assistance with some types of visa.

DBT Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award (IYBA) 2019 With Rs. 75,000/- pm Fellowship

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he official notification for the Har-Gobind Khorana ‘Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award’ (IYBA) 2019 has been released.

Awards of Rs. 75,000 and Rs. 1 Lakh is up for grabs. Freshers candidates with life sciences background are eligible to apply. Check out all of the details on the same below: DETAILS OF HAR-GOBIND KHORANA INNOVATIVE YOUNG BIOTECHNOLOGIST AWARD Background & Purpose The Har-Gobind Khorana’Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award’ (IYBA), instituted by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India is an attractive Research Award to identify and nurture exceptional young scientists with innovative ideas and desirous of pursuing research in frontier regions of Biotechnology.

Young scientists up to the age of 35 years with relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/OBC, Women and Physically Handicapped Category are considered for this award. Scientists without regular employment are eligible for this award. The award is made up of Research Grant for a proposed innovative project and a fellowship of Rs. 75,000/- per month for 3 years

awardees that aren’t in regular employment. Association of a mentor (senior faculty/scientist in a University, Research Institute, Medical/Agriculture/ Veterinary College or any other research institute of repute) is compulsory for all those candidates that aren’t in regular positions. The mentor must agree to provide lab space and other facilities that are needed. The application has to be forwarded by the head of this institute or duly designated competent authority.

It’s anticipated that the awardees will work independently and the mentor will facilitate the awardee’s research efforts. Awardees having regular (permanent) employment will receive a cash award of Rs.1,00,000/- (Rupees One Lakh Only) annually for a period of 3 years in addition to a Research Grant.

Eligibility (Mandatory): • The applicant must be an Indian Citizen.

• The applicant must have a PhD in almost any branch of Life Sciences, Computational Sciences (applied to Biotechnology, Medicine or Biological Sciences), Veterinary Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Agricultural Sciences. Master degree holders in Dentistry or Medicine (MD/MS/MDS or IMC designated equal ) and Engineering/

Technology (M.Tech or AICTE designated equal ) are eligible to use.

• Age limit: Not more than 35 years old on the last date of submission of application i. e., 15th July 2019. Fresh PhD’s are strongly encouraged to apply if they meet the mandatory requirements. Age relaxation of 5 years is made for Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC, Women and Physically Handicapped Category.

• The applicant should have a superb academic career and a track record of high impact peer-reviewed publications or invented technologies as evident by granting Indian and/or International patents.

• Cumulative publication of 4 as a first or corresponding author or a single granted Indian patent or

one granted International patent.

• The proposed project needs to be completed in any recognized research institution/university in India having adequate facilities to carry out for its implementation. A consent letter signed by the proposed mentor stating that all lab facilities will be provided for implementation of this proposed project has to be provided for people who aren’t in permanent services. The application needs to be forwarded by the head or designated competent authority of the host Institution or University.

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SCHOLARSHIPS

Nature of Award: The award will cover both non-recurring and recurring fiscal grants for executing the innovative research plan proposed by the awardee. Including equipment/software, consumables, contingencies and travel grant as needed for the research project. In addition, a fellowship of Rs. 75,000/- per month will probably be admissible for awardees which don’t have regular employment or aren’t drawing any other fellowship. If during the course of this project, the awardee finds out regular employment or receives some additional fellowship,

June 10th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 82

as a result of the research completed due to their award. The mentor and many others could be co-authors. This arrangement will serve the goal of the award, namely nurturing excellence of young investigators, which makes them independent, eligible for faculty positions and excel as scientists.

Additional Terms & Conditions should be followed as mentioned in the sanction order of their grant as and if the award is going to be sanctioned to awardees.

How to Apply: Applications in the prescribed proforma should be submitted through online DBT portal (ePromis) (url: http://www.dbtepromis.gov.in or http://www.dbtepromis.nic.in) before or on 15th July 2019. Three hard copies of application along with requisite documents should 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.

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the awardee should immediately inform the fact to the DBT and the monthly payment of a fellowship in the subsequent month onward will be discontinued.

In this situation, the awardees will receive Rs. 1.00 lakh cash award per annum similar to the awardees those are in regular employment. Awardees having regular employment will receive a cash award of Rs. 1.00 lakh each year during the course of this project in addition to the gear and other recurring grants except that the fellowship amount.

Duration: The length of the project is going to likely be for a period of 3 years subject to satisfactory progress.

Additional conditions: A letter from the Mentor, giving consent to provide lab space where the applicant needs to work, should be included with the application for people that aren’t in permanent employment. The lab ought to have the ability to support the major needs of this project.

The project will be operated by the awardee. But, capital equipment will be procured in the name of the institute in which the awardee proposes to work.

The financial transactions of this award need to be dealt with by the host institute, which will be responsible for submitting the Utilization certificate and Statement of Expenditure every financial year.

IYBA awardee shouldn’t undertake foreign deputations for more than three months throughout the whole course of this project period.

The awardee will be the corresponding author for any publication emanating

SCHOLARSHIPS

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Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) International Scholarship

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ustralian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) Scholarship (International) notification has been released. This is open to Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral candidates in all sciences disciplines. Interested and eligible candidates, can check out all of the details on the same below: DESCRIPTION The Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) Scholarships (International) are especially meant to encourage international students to undertake a research higher degree at Flinders University.

The Scholarship covers global tuition fees and a stipend.

Please notice: For visa purposes, the AGRTPS is a Commonwealth Sponsored Scholarship.

A limited number (around 10) of AGRTP Scholarships are available each year and the scholarship around is extremely competitive. The AGRTP Scholarship is given to applicants who exhibit exceptional capacity for independent study. AGRTP Scholarships are believed on the basis of academic merit, academic study training and study indexes and performance.

The scholarship is tenable for up to three years to get a Research Doctorate degree as well as 2 years for a Research Masters level. Successful applicants are expected to undertake whole time study and have to be commencing a study higher degree at Australia for the very first time.

BENEFITS The scholarships allow suitably qualified applicants to start a fulltime research higher level.

The AGRTP Scholarship pays the global student tuition fees billed by Flinders University for a research higher level.

Additionally, Flinders University provides the receiver with a generous living allowance paid at the rate of $27,596 (2019 rate). It’s tax-exempt and indexed annually, and Overseas Health Care cover.

An AGRTP Scholarship student who

goes to Adelaide from abroad qualify to an institution allowance (after arrival at Flinders) up to $1,485 to help with relocation expenses and airfares, given receipts could be made by the pupil.

ELIGIBILITY Applicants should meet the University’s academic entrance requirements to get a Masters degree by research or Doctorate by research.

Applicants need to have completed at least the equivalent of an Australian First Class Hons level (this is a four year degree with a significant research project in the last year) Applicants should have fulfilled the English proficiency levels established

by Flinders University for global students in the time of application. Pupils for whom English is a foreign language will have to give proof of their English language proficiency.

Applicants should not hold an equal research higher level qualification.

Applications are open to students starting a research higher level in Australia for the very first time.

Applicants should not hold Australian citizenship, Australian permanent resident status or New Zealand citizenship. Please visit the attached terms of award for complete eligibility criteria.

Please visit the attached terms of award for complete eligibility criteria.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION: All candidates have to read the application guidelines provided below before filing an application.

Incomplete applications won’t be accepted.

To Make Sure your application is competitive and complete, please browse and attend the following: Research Supervisor: You have to contact an academic team member and also have an informal agreement with that individual to oversee you if effective. Email proof of the manager’s agreement ought to be included along with your application. Applicants who don’t have a supervisor in the time of application won’t be considered to get an AGRTPS/FIPRS. Publications:

You have to add up to five of your books, each followed with a completed coversheet; books without coversheets won’t be considered. Publications will be employed to evaluate the standard of earlier research in the subject which you would like to study at Flinders University. Candidates with more than five publications need to speak with their own Flinders University manager to pick the best . Explain briefly why those five were selected. Don’t provide more than five publications. Additional books may be said in your CV or in another list.

Coversheets aren’t required for publications listed on the CV but not contained among the top five.

Typically, only publications in English should be included among the top five. Publications in other languages will be accepted only if the nature of the publication (for example, a report to a government agency) dictates that another language is most appropriate.

Please note, due to the highly competitive nature of the AGRTPS, applicants who have not published are unlikely to be competitive.

Academic Transcripts: You have to supply certified copies of university degree academic transcripts, translated into English, please don’t offer secondary college certifications or non-educational awards or certificates.

Research Proposal: You must include a research proposal of approximately 500 words in length, outlining the problem, hypothesis or question and the methodology or approach.

Complete Section A of two copies of the Academic Referee’s Confidential Report forms and forward them to two appropriate referees of your choice. If possible the referees should have an informed, personal and professional knowledge of your academic ability and be able to exercise judgment of your research potential. Indicate on your application form who the Referee Report forms have been sent to.

Academic Referee reports must be returned to rhdscholarships@flinders. edu.au by 9 August 2019.

Curriculum Vitae: An updated CV outlining your work experience, all research expertise, and a complete list of cited publications must be included along with your application.

APPLICATION Format & Language All documents must be uploaded via the application portal, and should be in English. Please save as a PDF and scan and save in the correct orientation. Please name all documents with your family name and document name, for example: name_Transcript, name_publication 1.

APPLICATION To apply for an AGRTPS and FIPRS, you will need to first submit an application for admission to a higher degree by research (PhD or Master of Arts by research) followed by an application for the International RHD Scholarship group, which will

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produce an application for both the AGRTPS and FIPRS via the Student info system.

You will need to have an active Flinders Authentication Name (FAN) to complete this process.

If you have never studied at, or made an application to Flinders University, you can register and submit your application for admission to a higher degree by research using the application portal.

After completing your registration you will receive a confirmation email, this will arrive within 1 hour to your nominated email address and will contain your login details and instructions on how to activate your FAN. If you have studied at Flinders Uni-

June 10th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 82

versity within the last 12 months you able to identify you more accurately can submit your application for ad- if you can enter your student ID. mission to research higher degree and for scholarship via the Student Infor- With an active FAN you will then be able to submit your application for mation System. admission via the Student InformaIf you have studied at Flinders Uni- tion System as advised above versity but graduated more than 12 months ago you will need to reactive You will find the application form your FAN via the FAN reactivation by selecting the My Applications tab page. With an active FAN you will at the top of the page, selecting the then be able to submit your applica- degree you wish to be admitted to and tion for admission via the Student In- completing the form. Once you have completed the application for admisformation System as advised above. sion, you will need to complete an apIf you have previously applied to plication for the scholarship. study at Flinders, you will be able to reactive your FAN via the FAN reac- To do this, continue by selecting the tivation page, you will need to enter My Scholarship tab and then Create your Fist name, Last name, date of a new scholarship application. The birth and your student ID, normally scholarship application is called Infound on any letters sent by the uni- ternational RHD Scholarship – group. versity to you. The system will be This application will ensure you are

assessed for both the AGRTPS and the FIPRS. Once your application is complete, including all mandatory questions and doumentation, your application will be assessed. Assessment will commence once applications have closed.

Applications close Friday 9 August 2019 at 5pm Australia, Adelaide local time.

Any questions about the application process should be directed to the Student Finance Office via email at rhdscholarships@flinders.edu.au Any questions about the candidature application process should be directed to the International Centre via email at agrtps.international@flinders.edu.au

TATA Trusts ILBS – TATA Fellowships 2019

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he official notification for the TATA Trusts – ILBS – Institute of Liver & Biliary Sciences – TATA Fellowship 2019 has been released. Interested and eligible candidates with relevant credentials can check out all of the details on the same below with regards to qualification, application procedure and deadline below:

of PhD or students supervised in the field of Hepatology and/or Liver regeneration, unique technique, know how or expertise, patents, etc.. Senior Fellows will be expected to mentor and provide research ideas (wisdom) for its ongoing and new research projects at the Institute. They need to have 10+ years of experience in the field of regenerative medicine.

ILBS-Tata Fellowship is a novel effort of its kind initiated by Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) and Financed by Tata Education and Development Trust. The fellowship is meant to invite distinguished clinicians and basic scientists from all over the world in addition to young researchers working in the field of regenerative medicine to get involved with ILBS by sharing their own experience and helping in the setup of the facility under their expert guidance.

For young researchers, this will serve as a platform for bidirectional flow of ideas to gain experience and improve science.

3 Junior Positions designated as ILBS-Tata Emerging Leader for a duration ranging from 6 to 12 months.

Age bar for the Junior Positions is 40 years +. These points will be taken into consideration for the choice of a Junior Position: Years of experience, thesis work, a number of research publications in the field of regenerative medicine and/or liver, and research field on which he/she was the last working, does he have some fresh research idea that might be of interest for ILBS, whether Institute is going to be helped by the inputs received from the Young researcher, unique technique, know how or expertise.

Junior Fellows will be required to do hands-on in the lab or clinics in their respective fields. They need to have 5years of experience within the field of regenerative medicine.

The fellowship invites two kinds of positions as Stated below: – 2 Senior Positions designated as ILBS-Tata Professor of Eminence for a duration ranging from 3 to 12 months. There’s no age-bar for Senior Positions. These points will be taken into consideration for the selection of a Senior Position: Years of experience, number of research publications in the mandatory field, number

Duration Of Fellowship • For Senior Positions: 1-6 months • For Junior Positions: 3-12 weeks Remuneration for fellowship: Fellows will be provided monthly remu-

neration; the amount will be finalized by the ILBS-TATA Fellowship Committee with approval of the Director, ILBS according to rules that are specified. A one-time to-and-fro travel and convenience charge will be provided to the fellows. ILBS will give accommodation within the campus to the fellows at a reasonable cost; nevertheless, this will be subjected to its availability at the time of fellowship.

Bio-sketch and Proposal: Candidates for both of the positions will have to submit their bio-sketch together with the proposal in a format that is prescribed. The proposal must have a novel idea on which the fellows are already working or they’d like to mentor or work, while their tenure at the Institute. The fellows may also be asked to help set up the facility linked to their research at the Institute. The novel idea or proposal ought to be written in a prescribed format with a proper timeline established activities. The Bio-sketch together with

the proposal needs to be submitted online at tatafellowship@ilbs.in.The biosketch such as the proposal ought to be sent as one attachment as PDF. The file shouldn’t be exceeding 100 MB. Text in the document has to be in Times New Roman Font size 12 in a portrait orientation, together with a single space between the lines, and double space between the paras. The file should not have any electronic signatures, hyperlinks and URLs (unless a citation). Our system has to have the ability to open and edit your application for official consideration and processing.

Applications are encouraged throughout the entire year. The current call for applications finishes on June 30, 2019. Someone missing the deadline may contact at tatafellowship@ilbs.in.

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Bayer International Life Sciences Fellowship Program 2019

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ayer International Fellowship Program – Life Sciences & Agro Sciences 2019 official notification has been released. Life Sciences, Agro Sciences, Biology and Chemistry Educators can check out all of the relevant information with regards to the fellowship given below: Overview: The Bayer Fellowship Program targets students and apprentices in medical and scientific areas. Its intention is to encourage the next generation of teachers and researchers as they participate in”Science for a Better Life”.

The Fellowship Program is composed of five scholarship programs offering tailored financial support.

Significant requirements for the support: The project should be supported must be innovative as well as international. Scholarships are granted to students and young professionals (up to 2 years after graduation) from Germany wishing to realize a study or research project abroad or to foreign students/young professionals following a job in Germany.

Life Sciences: Students and young professionals in the fields of biology, molecular biology, bioengineering, bioinformatics, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceuticals and computational life sciences are able to apply for the Otto Bayer Scholarship.

Agro Sciences: Students and young professionals in the fields of agro sciences, digital

farming, agronomy, crop sciences, green biotechnology, environmental sciences and sustainability are able to submit an application for the Jeff Schell Scholarship.

Biology and Chemistry Educators: Student teachers in biology and chemistry (up to Master’s degree level) can apply for the Kurt Hansen Scholarship. The focus is on study projects, internships, summer courses in addition to supplemental courses of study.

Apprentices: Apprentices and young professionals in non-academic professions are able to apply for the Hermann Strenger Scholarship. Here, foreign assignments such as projects, internships, supplemental courses or onthe-job assignments in the following fields are in focus: • Careers in healthcare • Technical or scientific occupations • Business administration How to Apply: The Bayer Science & Education Foundation supports students and young professionals who want to work or study outside of their home country with the Bayer Foundation Fellowship Program, which is made up of five scholarships.

All candidates need to have a high level of commitment, dedication and an innovative project plan. Scholarships are granted to students and

young professionals (up to 2 years following graduation) by Germany wishing to realize a study or research project abroad or into foreign students/young professionals pursuing a project in Germany. The following application documents are required for the Otto Bayer Scholarship, Carl Duisberg Scholarship, Jeff Schell Scholarship and Kurt Hansen Scholarship: • Confirmation letter from the foreign host institute/university on the planned project from September 2019 to August 2020 • A description of this project (duration of 2-12 months) with a financial plan within the timeline of September 2018 to August 2019. The project can include special study courses, lab assignments, research projects, summer classes, internships, Masters or PhD programs.

• Latest transcripts • Any additional documents that will enhance the application • Job application photograph (no photo of your passport, please) CV • The quantity per Mentor is individual but limited each 20.000$

per request.

For the Hermann Strenger Scholarship, applicants should submit the following: • Confirmation letter from the foreign host institute/university on the planned project from September 2019 on August 2020 • latest transcripts with good to excellent grades • A description of this project (duration of 2-12 months) with financial plan. The project can include special study courses, lab assignments, research projects, summer classes or internships • Job application photo (no photograph of your passport, please) The next round of applications must be submitted from June 1, 2019, until July 14, 2019. Please be aware that an application can only be submitted via the online tool. The online tool will be available on this site within the application round.

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DST & DAAD Indo-German Joint Research Collaboration

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he official Announcement 2019 Project- based Personnel Exchange Programme with India – Indo-German Joint Research Collaboration – DAAD / Department of Science and Technology (DST) has been announced. Interested candidates, check out all of the information on the same: Agreement: The ’Project-based Personnel Exchange Programme’(PPP) is a bilateral research promotion programme which is the result of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) concluded in 1998 between the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

Who would be the financing institutions?

DAAD receives funds for implementing the programme through a budget allocation made by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). On the Indian side, the programme is funded by Government of India through the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

What are the goals of the programme?

The basic aim of the programme is to strengthen the collaboration between Indian and German research groups, which are working jointly on a particular scientific project. The programme ’Project-based Personnel Exchange’ envisages, in this connection, financial support for operational mobility only. Particular emphasis is thereby accorded to academic training and specialization of young researchers. Concrete objectives have to be mentioned in the application (project description) (including the number and academic credentials of the researchers to be supported).

Research collaborations entered into with the intention of initiating major projects, such as the preparation of joint applications meant for submission to any other funding organisation, are highly preferred.

Which are the target groups?

Scientists/ researchers, university

professors, post-doctoral researchers and doctoral students.

Who can apply?

University professors, scientists/researchers and post-doctoral researchers from German and Indian universities and those in permanent positions at public funded research institutes are eligible to apply.

The programme is open to academics in the disciplines of agricultural sciences, veterinary medicine, forestry, engineering, earth sciences, mathematics, theoretical computer science, informatics, medicine, life sciences, health sciences, animal sciences, nutritional medicine, physics, material sciences and chemistry.

What are the pre-requirements For application?

The pre-requisite for application is concrete and precise scientific research project proposal of high quality, on which academics from both countries jointly, and to the extent possible complementarily, want to work on. It would not suffice just to describe scientific problems of a general nature which both research groups are interested in.

The basic funding for the project (personnel and material costs on both sides) must be secured by own funds or by third party funding.

The research group on each side should consist of a project leader and up to two doctoral students or post-doctoral researchers. The total number of participants in the project on both sides should not exceed three from each side.

The application shall be considered

by DST and DAAD only if a parallel application has been submitted simultaneously by the Indian and German partner to DST and DAAD respectively. The project proposal must be clearly described in, the concrete tasks that would be undertaken by the German group and those by the Indian partner.

The scientific contents of the proposal must be common from both sides.

What is the funding period?

A project, if jointly approved, shall be funded for a maximum period of two years.

In case the applicant leaves his/her institution before the expiry of the official validity of the project, its continuity must be safeguarded, for instance through a written confirmation by the grantee institution.

The project funds for the fiscal year 2020 and 2021, will be sanctioned subject to the condition that the budget allocation is available to DAAD and DST through the funding ministries.

What are the measures that can be funded?

The financial support under this scheme is available only to support exchange visits to the partner institution, which are undertaken during the course of the project related collaboration. These allowances cover all the expenses related to mobility and hospitality.

Short term stays of scientists and doctoral students are eligible for funding. The maximum duration of stay for scientists is 30 days per visit per year and for doctoral students, it is 50 days per visit per year. The project description must clearly mention the criteria used for selection of the scientist’s/ research scholars to be supported.

Within the validity of the project duration (FY 2020-2021, 2021-2022), a total of 4 visits by theGerman participants and 4 visits by the Indian participants shall be funded subject to the condition that not more the one visit is permitted during a year for a particular project participant. The funds can be utilised only to support mobility of the project participants officially

included in the project document.

The number and duration of the exchange visits under the project must be balanced in number and days on both sides. The reciprocity of visits under the project has to be strictly ensured from both sides.

DAAD shall bear the expenses related to international travel (including medical insurance, visa fee, domestic travels) of the members of the German research group to visit their Indian partner institution; and the local hospitality for members of the Indian research group visiting Germany.

DST, on the other hand, shall bear the expenses related to International travel related expenses (airfare, medical insurance, visa fees, domestic travel in India and Germany of the Indian research group members visiting Germany and the local the hospitality of the German research group members visiting India by granting respective allowances.

It is understood that the expenses incurred in connection with the project which go beyond the scope of funding provided by DAAD and DST (basic office set-up, procurement of equipment, consumables, documentation, photocopies & printing and personnel costs) will be borne by respective Institutions.

What cannot be funded?

The following shall not be funded: • Projects of the Indo-German Cooperation in Research and Technology that pertain to the same topic, which is already being funded by another mode, and

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• •

• • •

•

• •

also, include personnel exchange Pure skill enhancement projects Bilateral collaboration, which forms only a part of an otherwise multilateral collaboration funded through other routes Language courses Individual scholarships Project-related ancillary expenses (computing time, material expenses, documentation, photocopying and printing expenses) Expenses towards setting up basic facilities such as office space and equipment, as well as staff expenses Pure seminar events Conference participation

What are the selection criteria?

The applications shall be evaluated on both sides by the independent selection committee. The final selection shall be made jointly by DST and DAAD. • The key criteria for the selection are: The quality of the project (here especially: the clarity of project goals and methodology).

• The scientific significance and relevance of the project (The topicality of the subject and the level of innovation in the project) • Feasibility of the research project (under which especially: security of funding the arrangement, preparatory work, and appropriate planning for reciprocal

visits) • Project-relevant competency of both the research groups.

• Complementarities of the research groups in their common objectives (with regard to methodology, content, instruments, etc.)

• Adequate participation of young scientists.

Other criteria are:

What’s the deadline Of application?

The deadline of submission of online applications at DAAD Bonn Germany and also at DST New Delhi is 6th August 2019. Applications received after this deadline won’t be entertained whatsoever.

When does the funding start?

The funding shall start from FY • Knowledge transfer between the 2020-2021.

German and the Indian group.

• Scientific and/ or industrial us- Where should the Applications be ability, where applicable, of the submitted? project results.

• An additional benefit (technical, The German research groups should institutional, inter-disciplinary) apply online on the DAAD-Portal through cooperation with the In- https://portal.daad.de/irj/portal. dian partner.

Just One original hardcopy of this What are the things to be kept in proposal, in the prescribed format attached, duly Forwarded by Head mind at the time of application? of the Institute / University has to be Only those applications that have submitted to DST. A soft Copy (in been submitted by both partners to single soft pdf in PDF or MS-word DST (by Indian partner) as well as to format) as email attachment has to DAAD (by German partner), com- also Be delivered to sivaji@nic.in. plete in all respects, shall be consid- Please Don’t include scan pages from ered further for evaluation. Incom- the soft copy of this proposal. Adplete applications, in form, shall be vance copies of these proposals won’t summarily rejected. No advance cop- be considered in any instance. ies of the proposals shall be accepted The German partner needs to subby DST. mit an application online as Stated in The proposals received after the no- https://portal.daad.de/irj/portal while tified due date shall not be considered the Indian partners will need to submit ONE original Hard copy of the in any case. application according to the format

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accessible at https://onlinedst.gov.in Who is the contact person at DAAD? Heike Gabler P 33 – Projektförderung deutsche Sprache, Alumniprojekte, Forschungsmobilität (PPP – hier mit Indien – DST) Kennedyallee 50 53175 Bonn Tel.: 0228 / 882-375 Fax: 0228 / 882-9375 E-mail: gabler@daad.de http://www.daad.de/ppp Who is the contact person at the DST in India?

For information regarding programme implementation and the application procedure in India, please contact: Dr. Chadaram Sivaji Scientist-F International Bilateral Cooperation Division Department of Science and Technology Ministry of Science and Technology Government of India Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road New-Delhi-110 016 Tel: 011-26590489 E-mail: sivaji@nic.in Deadline: 6th August 2019

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Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellowships 2019

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he notification for the Human Frontier Science Program Postdoctoral Fellowships 2019 has been released. Interested and eligible candidates can check all of the details on the Postdoctoral Fellowships 2019

by Human Frontier Science Program (HFSCP) as given below only on Biotecnika: HFSP postdoctoral fellowships encourage early career scientists to expand their study skills by moving to new regions of research when working in a brand new nation.

HFSP fellowships are for three years.

Fellows may decide to remain for up to three years from the host nation or utilize the past year of the fellowship to come back to their home country or to proceed to some other HFSPO member nation.

Long-Term Fellowships (LTF) are for applicants with a Ph.D. in a biological field, who will expand their experience by proposing a job in the life sciences that’s substantially different from their past Ph.D. or postdoctoral work.

Cross-Disciplinary Fellowships (CDF) are for applicants with a Ph.D. from outside the life sciences (e.g. in physics, chemistry, math, engineering or computer sciences), who’ve had limited exposure to biology during their prior training Eligibility Criteria: Important eligibility criteria: 1) Nationality A candidate who is not a national from one of the HFSP members (see list below) may apply to work only in a research institution in one of the member countries. A candidate who is a national of one of the member countries can apply to work in a research institution in any country.

HFSP member countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus (EU part only), Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania,

Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

Applicants must propose to work in a country different to the one where they did their previous PhD work or first post-doctoral studies. For those institutions that are not classified as national, i.e. international or extraterritorial institutions such as EMBL, ICPT or ICGEB, the country in which the laboratory is located will be considered the host country.

2) Doctoral degree A research doctorate (PhD) or a doctoral-level degree comparable to a PhD with equivalent experience in basic research (e.g. a research based MD or medical PhD) must be conferred by the start of the fellowship. It is not required at the time of submission. By “conferred degree” we mean you have received your diploma for the degree. The “conferral date” is the date on the official PhD document.

Please refer to the application guidelines for information in case you were not yet awarded the PhD. 3) Research publications Applicants must have at least one lead author, full-length research paper – either accepted for publication, in press or published – in an international peer-reviewed journal or published on a pre-print server such as bioRxiv by 22 August 2019 in order to be eligible to apply. The applicant must either be the single author, first author or joint first author. In a joint first author paper the applicant does not have to be listed in the first place, but the equal contribution of the authors must be clearly stated in all cases. In some cases the standard publication practice makes first authorship impossible (e.g. alphabetical listing of authors); these circumstances must be explained in the “Additional Comments” section of the application.

Only publications written in English are taken into account. Review articles and patents are not taken into account.

Electronic copies of lead author publications must be uploaded while preparing the application. They cannot be uploaded after the applicant has submitted.

Application Process: There is only one competition per year for HFSP fellowships. The deadlines for the 2020 competition are as follows: Password registration and fellowship initiation: 8 August 2019 Submission deadline: 22 August 2019 at 1.00 p.m. applicant’s local time.

Please read carefully the 2020 fellowship application guidelines with the eligibility criteria before applying. Should you have any question as to your eligibility, please contact the fellowship office at fellow@hfsp.org Applications must be submitted via the HFSP website, which will open in July 2019 at https://extranet.hfsp.org.

Only the online application form is required at the time of application, no further documents (acceptance of host institution, signatures, etc.) are requested or accepted at this stage.

Applicants may update their publication list via the HFSP extranet site until 30 November 2019.

The registration site for the 2020 fellowship applications will open end of June/early July.

The application guidelines for the 2020 competition are available here.

The next fellowship initiation deadline will be 8 August 2019 with a submission deadline on 22 August 2019.

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CSIR Diamond Jubilee Research Interns Awards

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he official notification for the CSIR Diamond Jubilee Research Interns Awards 2019 has been released. Interested candidates with either a BSc or an MSc Life Sciences background are eligible to apply for the awards.

A stipend will also be given for the intern. Check out all of the details on the same below: Established in 1984, the CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTECH), Chandigarh is one among the chain of 38 national laboratories of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR). The Institute’s primary asset is a team of more than 55 highly motivated scientists, with a majority of them having several years of training in world renowned laboratories. Supported by more than 300 well trained technical staff and graduate students, these scientists have built strong peer credibility both in basic and application-oriented broad thematic areas of molecular biology and microbial genetics, cell biology and immunology, protein science and engineering, and fermentation technology and applied microbiology. These overreaching focus areas

required enabling research facilities, structures and practices which IMTECH has created over the years, recognized nationally ot be the best, globally at par with the best.

CSIR-IMTECH invited applications for CSIR Diamond Jubilee Research Interns Awards Your opportunity to: • Work using state-of-the-art R&D facilities.

• Imbibe the spirit of R&D be interacting with leaders in scientific research.

• Gain from knowledge & experience of accomplished scientists.

• • Gain training in the area of cell biology, molecular biology and immunology.

• To take up science as a career.

Positions: 2 Tenure: Maximum of two years (subject to performance review every 6 months) Eligibility: First Class or equivalent

GPA in

didates.

(a) Bachelor’s in Life Sciences / Technology / Pharmacy OR (b) Master’s Degree in any branch of science

Application Procedure: Interested candidates should apply through online link available on IMTECH website. Candidates are required to upload their CV (in pdf format only) along with the application. The list of eligible candidates will be displayed on IMTECH website for general information of candidates to appear in interview.

Stipend: Rs. 24,000 pm Desirability: Working knowledge in the area of cell biology and molecular biology.

Age Limit: 25 years as on 20 June 2019 (last date of receiving applications). Age limit is relaxable up to 5 years in case of SC/ST, physically handicapped, OBC and female can-

The last date for receiving application is 20th June (Thursday) 2019.

CSIR Recruitment 2019 for Biological Sciences Candidates @ TKDL Unit

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Sc Biological Sciences and Bioinformatics jobs for project assistant vacancies.

CSIR-Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (CSIR-TKDL) is hiring msc biological sciences and bioinformatics candidates for project jobs. Interested and eligible candidates can check out all of the details on the same below: CSIR-Traditional Knowledge Digital Library Unit (TKDL Unit) Vigyan Suchna Bhawan, CSIR-NISCAIR Building, 14, Satsang Vihar Marg New Delhi – 110 067 The CSIR-Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (CSIR-TKDL) Unit is engaged in the protection And preservation of India’s vast traditional medicine knowledge present in early texts

by Converting the information into modern languages. It aims to prevent the misappropriation of Indian Sys-

tems of Medicine through patenting at the international level. CSIR-TKDL Unit is a Unit beneath the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), an autonomous body with the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (Ministry of Science and Technology).

Name of the Post: Project Assistant – III (Patents) Code: TK08 No. of Posts: 02 Qualifications & Experience (if any): Masters degree in Chemical or Biological Sciences/Bioinformatics/ Cheminformatics or equivalent with minimum 55% marks and two Years experience in patent analytics/informatics Desirable Qualification: PG Di-

ploma in IPR, great oral and written skills in English.

cording to CSIR/Govt. Of India instructions on the subject.

Remuneration/Stipend payable:

Job Requirement: Preference will be given to people with competence in both computers and commonly used software

For Project Assistant — III: Rs. 28,000/ and HRA as per rules Age Limit: 35 years for Project Assistant — III according to date of Written test/interview. The aforementioned age limitations are relaxable for applicants of statutory groups ac-

General Conditions:

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(a) The engagement That’s on contract basis in regard to above positions will confer no Rights to the candidates, in any respect, implicitly and/ or specifically due to their continuation beyond Tenure/absorption/regularization in CSIR. The contract may be terminated at any time at a note of 1 month from either side or a single month stipend in lieu thereof. (b) Project staff could be governed by the guidelines relating to engagement of project staff in Contract Research and Plan Projects / NMITLI Scheme under the National Laboratories Scheme Issued by CSIR vide OM No. 4/CMG/2016-PPD dated 04/07/2016. (c) The project staff might be asked to travel according to need. (d) Reservation (SC/ST/OBC/PwD) is applicable according to CSIR/Govt.

Of India instructions on the subject. (e) Head, CSIR-TKDL Unit reserves

the right to increase/ decrease the number of positions and Additionally cancel the recruitment procedure for the positions mentioned previously at any given stage of this Recruitment procedure. The conclusion of the Head, CSIR-TKDL Unit will be binding and final.

Notice: (a) Candidates must present themselves at Vigyan Suchna Bhawan, CSIR-NISCAIR Building, 14, Satsang Vihar Marg, New Delhi — 110 067 for Interview in the Aforementioned dates against Each post at 9:00 AM. A written test may be conducted if needed. In this case, the interview of Shortlisted candidates will occur on precisely the exact same day or on the following day. (b) The candidates should bring with them original certificates/ testimonials in the time of test/ Interview

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along with two copies of self-attested photos plus also a set of self-attested copies of Certificates/ testimonials in support of age, qualification, marks obtained, expertise etc.. The Applicants should also bring a copy of the bio-data neatly typed on A4 paper along with a printout of this duly filled registration form. (c) The candidates belonging to reserved categories have to bring their original certification of Categories to which they belong issued by the competent authority (as well as self-attested copies Of exactly the same). (d) No TA/DA is going to be compensated for attending the Test/ Interview. (e) If currently employed, then the candidate Will Need to furnish no-objection certification from the Current employer at the time of joining. (f) Candidature will be purely provisional subject to fulfilling the eligibil-

ity standards. (g) Canvassing in any form will render the candidate disqualified.

How to Apply: Candidates that fulfil the aforementioned criteria must download and fill out the form available at www.csir. res.in and send a scanned copy of the same along with a copy of qualifying degree to tkdlsupport@csir.res.in.

Candidates must also take a printout of this filled form and bring it with them in the time of test/interview.

For any question please contact Telephone: 011-47011293 Email: tkdlsupport@csir.res.in Date of Walk-In-Interview: 19 June 2019

Life Science Govt Public Sector Job @ Bharat Immunologicals & Biologicals

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ovt of India, Ministry of Sciences & Technology, DBT Bharat Immunologicals & Biologicals Corporation Limited (BIBCOL) is hiring BSc candidates for multiple Lab QC Vacancies with a salary of Rs. 42,500 per month. MSc Biochem candidates are also eligible. Check out all of the details on the same below: Government of India Ministry of Science & Technology Department of Biotechnology POST I Name of the Post: Lab Staff (QC Microbiology Lab) No. of Posts: 02 Pay: Rs. 42500/- a month consolidated Essential Qualification: BSc degree in Microbiology or biochemistry Desirable Experience: 1-3 years’ experience in microbiology assays to support IPC and Release microbiology assays POST II Name of the Post: Lab Staff (QC Biochemistry Lab) No. of Posts: 02 Pay: Rs. 42500/- a month consol-

idated Essential Qualification: BSc or MSc degree in biochemistry, chemistry or analytical chemistry Desirable Experience: 1-3 years’ experience to support IPC and Release biochemistry and chemistry assays.

POST III Name of the Post: Lab Staff (QC Bioassay Lab Lab) No. of Posts: 02 Pay: Rs. 42500/- a month consolidated Essential Qualification: BSc degree in immunology, microbiology or biochemistry Desirable Experience: 1-3 years’ experience in running immunoassays demonstrated expertise with ELISA preferred.

How to Apply: The qualified candidates may apply on prescribed format. The candidates working at central Government/state government, central PSUs and State PSUs must apply through proper channel.

The last date for submission of application is 28-06-2019 (5.00 P.M.).

At the very top of envelope Please mention clearly, “Application for vaccine project” Completed application Together with relevant documents must be submitted by post or Courier (preferably DTDC courier) to:

HOD (P&A) Bharat Immunologicals and Biologicals Corporation Limited (BIBCOL) OPV Plant, Chola-203203 Bulandshahr, U. P. Deadline: 28-06-2019 (5.00 P.M.)

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Govt KPSC Food Safety Microbiologist Job With Up to Rs 75,000 Salary

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heck out the Kerala Public Service Commission jobs for msc food microbiology and microbiology candidates. Interested candidates with a masters background are eligible to register online and apply. For more details on the food safety job, the details, application procedure check out the information below: Name of the Post: Microbiologist No. of Posts: 01 Department: Food Safety (Govt Analytical Laboratory) The scale of Pay: Rs. 35,700 – 75,600 Method of Appointment: Direct Recruitment Age Limit: 18-40. Only the candidates born between 02.01.1979 and 01.01.2001 (both dates are included) are eligible to apply for this vacancy with the usual age relaxation for SC/ ST/OBC. Qualifications: • MSc in Food and Industrial Microbiology OR • MSc in Microbiology with emphasis on Food Microbiology.

How to Apply for Food Safety Job: • Candidates must register as per ONE TIME REGISTRATION with the official website of Kerala Public Service Commission www.keralapsc.gov.in, before applying of the post.

• Candidates who have already registered can apply by logging on to their profile using their USER-ID and Password.

• Candidates should click on the Apply Now button of the respective posts in the Notification Link to apply for the vacancy.

• The photo uploaded in the profile should have been taken after 31.12.2010.

• Name of the candidate and the date of the photo taken should be printed legibly at the bottom portion in the white background.

• The photo once uploaded meeting all the requisites should be valid for ten years from the date of uploading.

• There is no change in other instructions regarding the uploading of photos.

• NO APPLICATION FEE is required.

• Candidates should take a printout of the application by clicking the link Registration Card in their profile.

• Candidates are accountable for

•

• •

•

•

the accuracy of the personal info and secrecy of password.

Before the final submission of the application on the profile, candidates must make sure the accuracy of the information on their profile.

They must mention the User-ID to enable further communication with the Commission.

Applications once received is treated as provisional and the details cannot be deleted or altered after the last date of receipt of applications.

The applications submitted not in accordance with the conditions stipulated in the notification will be summarily rejected in due course of processing.

Documents to prove age, qualification, experience, community etc., have to be produced as and

when called for.

• The profile correction made by the candidate or in the office of KPSC on request after the last date fixed for the receipt of application will not reflect in the application.

• Such corrections will be in effect on the date on which corrections have been made.

Candidates who have AADHAR Card should add AADHAR as ID Proof in their profile.

Last date of submission of application: 03/07/2019 Wednesday up to 12:00 midnight

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BIOTECNIKA TIMES

June 10th, 2019 Vol. 03 NO 82

CSIR NET + GATE Regular / Online Coaching Admissions Open | Next Batch: 1st July 2019 Bangalore | Noida | Kolkata | Pune | Chennai + Online @ Home Call 080-5099-7000 or Toll-Free 1800-1200-1818 Launching : BioTecNika’s Video Pen Drive Enrol for the NET or GATE Classes & GET BioTecNika’s Video Pen Drive

ABSOLUTELY FREE of Cost !

HURRY ! LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE !

Plug and Learn with BioTecNika’s VideoDrive (16 GB & 32 GB) Dear Aspirants,

the success of our students in their Features of BioTecNika’s Video CSIR NET December 2018 journey. Pen Drive :

CSIR NET is an All India Level Exam and the best talent of INDIA You can watch our Toppers talk gets selected, that means you need below. the best support for CSIR NET from the Best Teachers of India. CSIR BioTecNika Student secures 7th NET exam is all about Application of Rank in CSIR NET JRF Dec 2018 Knowledge and not just about knowing concepts. Its a competitive exam CSIR NET and GATE Bioand Only the Smarter aspirant qual- technology- Jumbo Combo ifies.

Course Starts 1st July.

As you know, It’s always wise to start preparing early to hit the target, And with a proven track record of 231+ students clearing CSIR NET exam with the help of BioTecNika, It’s clear that students who enrolled with us earlier had better chances of clearing the CSIR NET Exams.

What is needed for a better preparation?

• Plan your study so that you can schedule your subjects • Focus more on important and difficult units: 2, 4, 6, 7, 9 and 13.

• Check out difficult topics first and then look up to the easier ones later • For PART A: Concentrate on Graphical Analysis and Formula-based questions first • Perform the combined revision of the topics which you studied during the long day, before going to bed at night • Start practicing with Test Series & Previous Years Question Papers: Just studying is not enough, Practice makes you perfect • Concentrate more on your strengths and stay positive Biotecnika is proud to announce

Course Content: • Classroom Coaching / Online Coaching from Biotecnika’s well qualified and experienced teachers.

• Printed Study Material for CSIR NET (Life Science): 14 Books (13 books as per syllabus + 1 book for Part A) • Printed Study Material for GATE (Biotechnology): Set of 4 books with MCQs • Online Study Portal: Our state of the art e-learning portal equips you with video recordings of each and every lecture that you attend ( e-copy of books, presentations, animations and e-copy flashcards will be provided to get the concept registered into your mind) • Unlimited Classes: We do not limit your classes, attend as many classes as you can, no limits because our goal is your success.

• Weekly tests, AIMNET and AIMGATE Test Series • 12 X 7 Chat Support for Doubt Solving • 24 X 7 Email Support for Doubt Solving Learn More

• 350+ Hours of The Best Lectures of BioTecNika since 2006 • Complimentary access to BioTecNika’s latest e-Learner 2019 for 1 Year • Free AIMNET & NET JRF Pro Test series as per the new pattern.

• 24X7 Doubt Solving by BioTecNika Experts who will resolve your doubts via chat • Animations, Powerpoints, Video recordings & eBooks - All at

One Place How to Get BioTecNika’s Video Pen Drive?

You can enroll for 1 Year CSIR NET Coaching ( with FREE Study Material package) and get this Video Pen drive for FREE - Next Batch Starts 1st July 2019.

You can enroll for 1 Year CSIR NET Coaching ( with FREE Study Material package) and get this Video Pen drive for FREE - Next Batch Starts 1st July 2019.

Attend Regular courses if you are in Bangalore, Kolkata, Pune, Chennai or Delhi & NCR Or Opt for our Hassle Free Online Coaching @ Home Got Questions? Ask BioTecNika

Dial 1800-1200-1818 / 080-5099-7000 or chat with the chat support agent for more information.

Our Mission: BioTecNika Revolution Our Vision: To Reach every Bio Professional in our country and help them build a strong career