Biotecnika Times Newspaper 30 October 2018

October 30th, 2018.

Vol. 02

NO 50

www.biotecnika.org

Call:1800-200-3757

Top 12 Questions Asked During PhD Interview & How to Answer Them

UK Chevening Fellowship Programme for India

Dept of Biotechnology Showcases India’s R&D Potential in Berlin

Career Advice

Fellowship

News

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Dept of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare Recruitment 2018 The DAC&FW is organized into 27 Divisions and has five attached offices and twenty-one subordinate offices which are spread across the country for coordination with state level agencies and implementation of Central Sector Schemes in their respective fields.

MSC CANDIDATES WITH A BACKGROUND IN PLANT PATHOLOGY, BIOCHEMISTRY, MICROBIOLOGY AND BACTERIOLOGY CANDIDATES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR INTEGRATED NUTRIENTS MANAGEMENT VACANCY

By Diluxi Arya

Eligibility Conditions: Essential (i) Master’s Degree in Agriculture with specialization in Agricultural Chemistry or Soil Science or Plant Pathology or Chemistry or Bio-Chemistry or Microbiology or Bacteriology from a recognized university or institute (ii) three years’ experience in the field of promotion of organic manures or bio-fertilizers or fertilizers or quality control of fertilizers or (iii) Ph.D. from a recognized university or institute in any of the specialization indicated above

Read more on Page 2

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PH.D. ADMISSIONS

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

FAQ FOR PHD ADMISSION AT IISER, GENERAL QUERIES DISCUSSED

DAZZLING DUSSEHRA 2 DIWALI OFFERS FOR ALL CSIR-NET & GATE ASPIRANTS

●● Lakhs of students try for PhD Admission at IISER every year. Getting admission for a PhD at IISER is a great deal. One can get admission in either of the IISER institutes at different locations in India...

●● Festive Season is Here! We Indians are blessed with a lot of colorful festivals to celebrate all the year round, but it should never come in between your studies. Balancing both the festive enjoyment & study is the key to success in CSIR & GATE Exam....

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HEADLINES

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

Dept of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare Recruitment 2018 The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (formerly Ministry of Agriculture), a branch of the Government of India, is the apex body for formulation and administration of the rules and regulations and laws related to agriculture in India. The three broad areas of scope for the Ministry are agriculture, food processing and co-operation. ii) Integrity Certificate iii) List of major/minor penalties imposed on the officer during the last ten years (if no penalty had been imposed, a “NIL” certificate should be enclosed) iv) Vigilance clearance certificate v) photocopy of the APARs of the preceding five years 2012-13 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2016-17 each page attested by an officer, not below the rank of under secretary to the Government of India.

cancy. Interested and eligible candidates can

AGRICULTURE IS THE PRINCIPAL check out all of the details on the same below: SOURCE OF LIVELIHOOD FOR MORE THAN HALF POPULATION Job Name: Assistant Commissioner (Integrated OF INDIA. AGRICULTURE PROVIDES Nutrients Management) T H E B U L K O F WA G E G O O D S Pay Scale: Level 11 (PB 3: Rs. 15600-39100) with REQUIRED BY NON-AGRICULTURE Grade Pay of Rs. 6600 as per 6th Central Pay SECTORS AND MOST OF THE Commission R AW M AT E R I A L S F O R T H E Eligibility Conditions: INDUSTRIES SECTOR

By Diluxi Arya

MSc candidates with a background in Plant Pathology, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Bacteriology candidates are encouraged to apply for Integrated Nutrients Management va-

Essential (i) Master’s Degree in Agriculture with specialization in Agricultural Chemistry or Soil Science or Plant Pathology or Chemistry or Bio-Chemistry or Microbiology or Bacteriology from a recognized university or institute

(ii) three years’ experience in the field of promotion of organic manures or bio-fertilizers or fertilizers or quality control of fertilizers or (iii) Ph.D. from a recognized university or institute in any of the specialization indicated above How to Apply: Application (in duplicate of the eligible candidates whose service can be spared immediately on selection may be forwarded as per the prescribed proforma at Annexure – I together with a certificate from the forwarding authority as per the prescribed proforma at Annexure-II along with the following documents. i) Cadre Clearance

Complete advertisement biodata specimen (Annexure – I) and certificate format for cadre clearance, integrity certificate vigilance clearance and major /minor penalty statement etc Can be downloaded from the Department of Agriculture cooperation and farmers welfare website http://www.agricoop.nic.in/. Application, along with the requisite document may be forwarded to the Under Secretary (personnel-II) to Department of Agriculture, cooperation and Farmer Welfare, Room number 37, ground floor, F wing, Krishi Bhawan, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Road,New Delhi -110001 within 60 days of publication of the vacancy circular in the employment news/ Rojgar Samachar. Applications not forwarded through proper channel or those received without requisite certificates and document will not be entertained. Applicants will not be allowed to withdraw their applications subsequently.

Reference: Employment News – ISSUE NO 29, 20-26 OCTOBER 2018 Last Date to Apply: 20th November 2018

Freshers Jobs, MSc Life Sciences, Post Graduate Trainee Jobs at Merck The Merck Group, branded and commonly known as Merck, is a German multinational pharmaceutical, chemical and life sciences company headquartered in Darmstadt, with around 50,000 employees in around 70 countries. Merck was founded in 1668 and is the world’s oldest operating chemical and pharmaceutical company, as well as one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world.

Interested and eligible candidates check all

MSC LIFE SCIENCES JOBS AT the below: MERCK, BENGALURU. MERCK, BENGALURU IS HIRING MSC LIFE Job Title: Life Sciences (MSc.) Post SCIENCES CANDIDATES. LIFE Graduate Trainee SCIENCES CANDIDATES APPLY Req ID: 183365 ONLINE FOR A POST GRADUATE TRAINEE POSITION AT MERCK Location: Bangalore SBS, Karnataka –

By Diluxi Arya

India

Purpose of the Role: We’re looking for bright, spirited students who have finished their Post Graduate academic course in the Life Science domain to join as a trainee for a period of one year.

This position provides an exceptional opportunity for highly motivated and talented individuals to gain valuable experience and training in the multifaceted disciplines of business with a focus on Sales and Marketing.

• Presentation Skills • Supervisory Skills • Managerial Skills • Insights and Global Cultural Perspectives

During the program, members will experience rotational assignments while getting exposure to the company’s core businesses, procedures, technologies and leaders.

• Minimum Masters’ degree in Life sciences (Biotechnology/Micro Biology/Bio chemistry and allied branches) • Graduated in 2017 • Outstanding academic record • Immediate availability to join • Excellent command over the English language

Assignments provide learning opportunities concentrated in the areas of: • Sales & marketing

Education Requirements:

CAREER ADVICE

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Top 12 Questions Asked During PhD Interview & How to Answer Them A Ph.D. Interview freaks out a lot of candidates. They often struggle thinking what all questions will be asked and how he or she should prepare oneself. PhD Interview format and the type of questions asked vary with institutes.

YOU MAY BE CALLED FOR A ONE-ON-ONE INTERVIEW WITH YOUR POTENTIAL SUPERVISOR IN PERSON OR VIA SKYPE. MOST OF THE INSTITUTES FOLLOW A FORMAL INTERVIEW FORMAT WHICH IS CONDUCTED IN FRONT OF A PANEL, AND YOU CAN BE ASKED TO GIVE A PRESENTATION TO THE DEPARTMENT

By Preety Suman

Rarely you will be called for an informal chat with your potential supervisor and their students over lunch. Regardless of the type of interview and level of formality, you must do your homework and prepare for the interview. Of course, you cannot predict the specifics of the questions that they will ask you, but certain topics are almost inevitable. As per our survey, below we have tried to accumulate a set of Q&A, Top 12 Questions Asked During PhD Interview & How to Answer Them. Lets Dive In! Q1. Tells Us Something About Yourself or Give a Brief Introduction about yourself!

Ans: You will say now this is a common question, everybody can answer it. Wrong!

The first impression is the last impression!

Obviously, this will be the first question in a PhD Interview and almost 70% of candidates handle this question in a wrong manner.

Appearance – This is the most important attribute of an interview. One should be dressed up properly as it shows that you’re paying attention to the details and care about making the right impression. Truly said by someone, What you wear is a part of who you are! Hence use it to communicate your personality. Keep the focus on you by avoiding flashy accessories and extravagant attire.

Be simple.

How to Start – How you pitch your first line matters. The intensity of your voice & the choice of words matters. Plan on the first few speaking moments of your introduction beforehand. Confidence is equally important as your appearance. To establish a solid foundation, boldly state your name. Don’t be afraid to speak up.

A solid volume shows you’re confident and that you are excited about the opportunity.

Here’s an example that someone applying for a Biotechnologist position might use: “My name is Anurag and I’m a passionate plant biotechnologist with over five years of research experience specializing in somatic embryogenesis and haploid culture. I’m looking forward in growing my technical and research skills to develop and inspire a thought of my own.”

Customize it further as per your & the post requirement and Bingo! You will have a great start!

Q2. What do you plan to do after you complete your PhD? Ans: Strategically answer to this question.

Start with “I am really excited to do my PhD in this subject, this has been my topic of interest since my masters, after exploring it further during my PhD that too in this institute, I am sure I am going to like it even more, so definitely at this point of time i am willing to pursue my postdoctoral studies after PhD to broaden my horizons further. I would even like to take up an opportunity if it comes by to serve myself as a professor, rendering my knowledge to our future assets.”

requires a lot of skills technical skills on handling R&D equipment, do not say that your weakness is technology. Also, no matter what weakness you select, show a positive side to it. Like you are working on your particular weakness rigorously and it will never reflect in your work.

Q4. Any type of training you are planning to take up during or after of your PhD? Ans: The answer to the above questions can be given in the below way:

Above answer is just an example to give you an idea about how excatly the flow of your statemnet should be.

Analyze first what are your future plans and then frame your answer accordingly.

“Yes, definitely Sir/Madam, some training/ workshops or hands-on technical skill development programmes are on my top priority list which I am planning ahead of my Ph.D. I have learned that major biotech and biopharma companies in spite of having an appropriate academic degree and academic qualifications overall, new graduates were hired for less than 15% of all available entry-level job openings. Later I understood that Transferable job skills are a major issue among new PhDs. If I can somehow minimize this skill gap I feel it will be beneficial for me.”

Q3. What do you think are your strengths and weaknesses, can you highlight them?

Q5. Why are you choosing this particular project?

Ans: The best way to answer this tricky question is to keep the job description in mind and then tread cautiously. Do not speak your heart out. Be specific and to the point. Speak about your strength in conjunction to the Job requirement. For example, if the job revolves around a lot of team projects, in that case, you might say that you are a great team worker and clear communicator who can work with diverse groups of people.

Ans: Say that “According to me, this project is much related to my prior work knowledge and it will be easier for me to connect with the current project and provide fruitful results. Moreover, I want to expand and extend my thought of research to a higher level and this project will be the best platform for me.”

While addressing your weaknesses, avoid pointing out weaknesses that would make you unfit for the job. For example, if the job

By now you must be knowing some specifics of the project you are going to work on, pick up keywords and frame your answer around it. This question is generally asked in order to check how passionate you are about the subject.

Q6. What makes you the right candidate for this PhD? Ans: I am a self-motivated person who is willing to give 100% in the project. If I am selected for this PhD not only I will implement my existing knowledge but will also be open to exploring advanced techniques. I hold a lot of experience & hands-on exposure in ‘Plant tissue Culture lab’ (For example) as I had Plant Biotechnology as my special paper in my masters and post Msc I have worked as a project assistant for 2 years ( Supposed) in a lab. The requirements of this project and the prior knowledge I have suggests that I will be a perfect fit for it. So for sure Sir/Mam I can bring my successes and experiences to my PhD work here.

Q7. What difficulties do you expect to encounter during this project?

Ans: This question has been the most common & an important part of most of the Biotech PhD interviews. This question can be thrown at you either in the beginning while you are talking about your strength & weakness or during the time you explain to them about your post PhD plans. Tackling this question perfectly can be a key to your selection in the PhD Interview.

As an answer to this question you can cite: “I per my understanding in order to start with the project I need to go through the existing archived research records, hence those should be easily accessible, also easy access to the labs for conducting studies, proper SOP’s in place are the major things I am concerned of which I am sure will definitely be taken care of here, without even me asking for it. (Say it with a confident smile ). The most common crisis I feel we will have to face is a shortage of required sample & chemicals if that can be taken care of, it will help us accelerate our work.”

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I can understand you will be very much tempted to speak about fund crisis as one of the major challenges you will face, but mentioning this point in the first meet is not advisable. Analyze the members in the interview panel and then take up this point.

Q8. What would you like the impact of this project to be?

Ans: Questions related to funding are asked in interviews concerned with non-funded PhDs. In case you have a fully funded PhD, you might still be asked about contingency plans if funding falls through or the project is overrun due to some unforeseen circumstances.

You can reply by saying:

Ans: The answer for this may vary from person to person depending on the type of project you are getting into. For example, if you are getting into a cancer-related project, say that ” Intense research is being done on this topic worldwide. Advancements are there yet nothing breakthrough. I would like to take this project in a direction where not only we focus & analyze areas untouched, but also it yields a prominent result. I would put my every possible effort & knowledge to come out with some breakthrough research which could save the mankind from Cancer.

“In case of a funding issue my first step will be to short-listed external funding agencies who will be willing to fund in our project. If needed I can work parttime, earn in some extra bucks without hampering my major project work, just to fund the project temporarily until the fund crisis is resolved. I would never like the project to stop abruptly, will do whatever in my hands to support the project.”

If you are getting into hardcore Biotech research cite that:

Ans: To answer this question you have to come prepared. Discuss what you really understand more about its own particular R&D Department and the university. Discuss how this University will be able to assist you and the way they’re much better than the others.

Describe how you will be able to bring about their endeavors and you’d love to study & grow with the supervisors assigned.

“As my work will be mostly around biotechnology, which is an applied branch of science, I hope to provide some economic benefits to the biotech industry globally and moreover, I’m keen to share my passion for this subject with a wider audience.“ Q9. How are you planning to fund this project?

Q10. Why you want to do your PhD from this University ?

Do not miss on the opportunity to reiterate your awareness of the broader re-

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

search context for your project. If other departments or labs are undertaking work that is related, mention that. Say what attracted you in particular to this university and what you hope to achieve as among its pupils.

In short, a simple answer to this question can be given as : “I have looked at plenty of chances in this area. I feel this project is best among one of its kind, combining a research angle that is exceptional with a training module that will meet my professional needs. I was already familiar with the job of my potential supervisor and their study has greatly influenced my knowledge development. A combination of my skills aided by the guidance of my supervisor along with the universities extremely advanced infrastructure at the display I assure you this project will be a hit.“ Q11. What can you bring to this research group?

Ans: “I’ll be honored if I could be part of the research team and will attempt to bring huge development in Research Quality. I have learned plenty of technical skills in past work experience and it’s going to be a terrific opportunity for me to execute exactly the exact same inside this study group. I also mean to publish my own research work in cooperation with my teammates in impactful & renowned journals. Moreover, I would love to teach my juniors along with my group mates using whatever abilities and understanding I have accumulated till

date in my experience.”

Q12. If you repeatedly get negative results in your project, what will you do?

Ans: “Sir/Madam repeated negative consequences is a symptom of a new study measurement and may contribute to some fresh ideas respective to our scope of the study. I have also learned about this a group of journals that have been specially designed to release the ‘rejects’ for example the Journal of Negative Results in Biomedicine. May more such journals exist.

Negative findings can also be progressively represented in broad-scope journals like Disease Models & Mechanisms and PLoS ONE. So sir/mam I believe one ought to keep high trust and soul on adverse results instead of becoming a pessimist.”

So here we are with Top 12 Questions Asked During PhD Interview & How to Answer Them. In this piece, we have tried to enlist most common questions that are asked during PhD interviews. The above answers are just a suggestion meant to guide you, give you an idea on what kind of answers exactly the interviewers expect from you and how you should frame your answers smartly in order to get through the selection process.

Do let us know your views by commenting below. Also, do let us know if you have any question or topic in your mind which you feel we must answer & cover it on our website which would help a lot of students.

Dazzling Dussehra 2 Diwali offers For all CSIR-NET & GATE Aspirants Hello Biotecnikans! Festive Season is Here! We Indians are blessed with a lot of colorful festivals to celebrate all the year round, but it should never come in between your studies. Balancing both the festive enjoyment & study is the key to success in CSIR & GATE Exam. this Diwali and get eLearning portal access till NEXT DIWALI • Get FREE Lecture DVDs on Important Topics of CSIR with the purchase of CSIR NET / GATE Coaching.

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WITH DUSSEHRA FEVER STILL ON AND DIWALI KNOCKING ON THE DOOR, IT CALLS FOR A CELEBRATION AND A LOT OF EXCITING GOODIES

By Preety Suman

As we celebrated this Dussehra with some magical offers on our Biotecnika stores, here comes yet another Delightful DIWALI offer.

Diwali with some add-ons which you cannot resist. Read more about the exciting offers below:

BioTecNika Celebrates D2D (Dussehra 2 Diwali) offers on stores.biotecnika.org

Exclusive D2D Limited Time Discounts & Offers:

We are extending the Dussehra offers till

• Buy CSIR NET / GATE Study material

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This Offer is valid from 24th October 2 PM to 6th November 2018 Mid Night. Contact us in chat or call 1800-200-3757 for more details.’

FELLOWSHIP

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

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UK Chevening Fellowship Programme for India The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship is a partnership between the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Clore Leadership Programme. It’s a unique programme of cultural leadership development that attempts to enrich and transform cultural practice and engagement.

UK FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE AND THE CLORE LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED. INDIAN NATIONALS THAT ARE INTERESTED IN THIS PROGRAMME CAN CHECK OUT ALL OF THE DETAILS ON THE DESCRIPTION, APPLICATION PROCEDURE, DEADLINE AND TIMELINES CAN CHECK OUT ALL OF THE DETAILS BELOW

By Diluxi Arya

Professionals in the arts and culture sector are given the opportunity to undertake an individually tailored leadership programme in the united kingdom.

Every year, 25 places are given to exceptional leaders from a range of specialisms across the cultural sector such as the visual and performing arts, film and digital media, museums, libraries, archives and heritage, cultural policy and practice. The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office funds up to six international Fellows to become part of their cohort.

About the fellowship programme: The Fellowship provides a number of core activities and a loose framework to support your individual development as a cultural leader over a period of around seven months. The Programme has been shaping exceptional cultural leaders for the previous 14 years.

The Fellowship is self-guided so you will have to be highly motivated and deeply curious. It’s primarily experiential, underpinned by contemporary leadership theories. You will learn from the experiences of guest speakers and your peers, and gain insights about yourself from practical workshops and throughout your secondment, mentoring and coaching. You will extend your knowledge and understanding of the wider cultural sector through dialogue, inquiry, study visits, conferences and meetings, and increase your skills and acumen via courses and individual training as part of your unique development plan.

This is a learnt, not a taught programme.

It’s action-orientated and practical. It’s intellectually rigorous but not academic. It’s intensive and challenging. Fellows work in small groups on practical projects, and attend masterclasses, talks, and workshops on topics like change management, strategic planning, and ethnic policy.

Who’s it for?

The Fellowship Programme is for leaders with ambition and vision, that can show clearly how they may take their leadership to the next level. We’re looking for leaders that are dynamic, collaborative and strategic; that have a high degree of intellectual

curiosity, creativity, integrity and emotional intelligence. You’ll be entrepreneurial and driven to making a difference in your community of practice, sector and society through culture. Whether working individually or as part of an institution, you’ll have the ability to demonstrate your aptitude and appetite for effecting significant change. Additionally you will: • Have significant expertise of leading people, projects, organisations or practice either in a professionally paid or voluntary capacity in the cultural sector.

• Be comfortable with managing budgets.

• Demonstrate a deep commitment to, passion for and understanding of the cultural sector in your own country.

• Be able to demonstrate aptitude for leading and effecting significant change via your work.

Structure of the Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship: The structure of the programme comprises two residential courses, an extended placement, individually selected training and mentoring.

As Part of the Clore Leadership Programme, each international fellow will undertake an individually tailored programme based in the UK which will include: • Attendance at 2 compulsory intensive residential leadership courses (lasting two weeks each) with their group of Clore Fellows; the first takes place in September/October at the start of the academic year and the second in June/July at the conclusion of their academic year; • A period of secondment for approximately eight weeks at a cultural institution in the UK; • Participation in courses and conferences in the UK; • Support from a mentor in the united kingdom.

The majority of the fellows’ individual training and development programs, such

as their secondments, mentoring, attendance at seminars and courses, along with the 2nd residential course will take place in the period between April and July of 2020; the fellowship will be completed by 31 July 2020.

The fellowship begins in September 2019 and runs throughout the academic year, together with fellows travelling between their home country and also the UK to undertake the fellowship. For more information regarding the fellowship please visit the Clore Leadership Programme site.

What does this fellowship contain?

A Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship involves a training budget of up to #14,000 to cover: • Up to two return economy flights from your house country to the UK to tackle fellowship activities • Accommodation whilst at the united kingdom • Living expenses while at the united kingdom • A period of secondment for approximately eight weeks in a cultural institution in the united kingdom • Individually tailored fellowship learning plan that might include participation in courses conferences and other professional development activities in the united kingdom • Course and conference fees within the united kingdom • Training and development costs within the united kingdom • Travel in the united kingdom Who’s qualified?

Applications are encouraged from individuals from the following countries: To be eligible for a Chevening/Clore Fellowship, you need to: • Intend to return to the nation they were chosen from at the close of the period of study.

• Hold a degree that’s equal to a great UK second-class honours degree or possess equivalent professional experience or training.

• Have completed at least five years’ (or higher as required by the Clore Leadership Programme) work, or equivalent experience, by the end of September from the year prior to the academic year for which the fellowship applies (e.g. by September 2019 for courses starting from September 2020).

• Meet the minimum requirements in accordance with the main fellowships’ scheme.

• Not hold dual nationality in which one nationality is British (besides for nationals exempt from this condition listed in the Chevening Guidance for Applicants).

• Not be workers, workers’ relatives (or former employees who have left employment than two years before) of Her Majesty’s Government including the FCO (including FCO Posts), the British Council, DFID, MOD, BIS, UKTI and UKBA, the Association of Commonwealth Universities or the Clore Leadership Programme or some of the wholly-owned subsidiaries.

Applicants who have previously received financial benefit from an HMG-funded scholarship or fellowship are eligible to apply after a period of five years following the completion of the first HMG-funded award and therefore are needed to demonstrate their career progression with that point.

Applicants are also advised to review the Clore Leadership Programmes key features.

The best way to apply?

Applications for this fellowship are open between 6 August and 6 November 2018. If you’re conditionally selected, please familiarize yourself with all the placement timeline.

Deadline: 06th November 2018

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FELLOWSHIP

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

Commonwealth Scholarships For MSc & PhD 2019 The notification for the Commonwealth MSc & PhD Scholarships for full-time masters & doctoral study at a UK university form candidates from low and middle-income Commonwealth countries has been announced. bility criteria need not apply.

2. Canvassing in any form will be a disqualification.

3. It is very important that applicants who are in employment to which they wish to return after completion of their studies in the UK should have an assurance from their organization that on the final selection by the CSC, they will be granted sufficient leave to complete the study. In general, a candidate undertaking research for a PhD can be expected to need 36/48 months’ study in the United Kingdom even though in the first instance, the award will only be offered for one or two years.

4. All announcements will be made available on the website of the Ministry of Human Resource Development i.e. www.mhrd.gov.in/scholarships.

5.The nominated candidates will be informed through e-mail and public notice on the Ministry’s website.

The best way to apply:

ONLINE APPLICATION IS INVITED FROM INDIAN NATIONAL FOR ‘2019 COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARSHIP TENABLE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM’ FOR PURSUING MASTER’S & DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMME COMMENCING FROM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019.

By Diluxi Arya

The Scholarships are offered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), UK for the following Scholarships only: • Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships (for low and middle income Commonwealth countries) • Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (for low and middle income Commonwealth countries) The information in respect of the scholarship is available on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s website: http:// cscuk.dfid.gov.uk/apply/applicants/.

Number of nomination: 52 nominations would be made, out of which 13 nominations would be for PhD. The specific terms and conditions in respect of Master’s and PhD scholarships are available on the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s website at the following URL: Master’s: http://cscuk.dfid.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/terms-conditions-mastersscholarships-low-and-middle-incomes-2019.docx-1.pdf PhD: http://cscuk.dfid.gov.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2018/10/terms-conditions-phdscholarships-low-middle-income-countries-2019. pdf Eligibility:

(i) The candidates who have received the offer of admission, from any of the university listed with the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission is only eligible to apply. The list of the university may be found at URL: http://cscuk. dfid.gov.uk/apply/ukuniversities/part-funding/ (ii) The applicant must be a permanent resident in India. (iii) The applicant must be available to start his/ her academic studies in the UK by the start of the UK academic year in September/October 2019 (iv) The applicant must NOT be registered for a PhD, or an MPhil leading to a PhD, at a UK university or India university or elsewhere before September/October 2019 (v) The applicant must not be able to afford to study in the UK without this scholarship.

(Candidates are compulsorily required to sign a declaration that they do not have access to sufficient funds to study in the UK). (vi) Candidates who have already been abroad for studies/training/ specialization either on scholarships or on their own, for a period exceeding six months are eligible to apply, if they have been in India for at least two consecutive years as on 10th January, 019 after returning from abroad.

Minimum qualifications: (i) For Master’s course: One should have completed or is expected to complete the Bachelor Degree by October 2019. The academic qualification must have direct and applied relevance to the development theme selected by the candidate. (ii) For PhD degree: One should have completed or is expected to complete the Master Degree/Qualifying Exam, by October 2019.

The academic qualification must have direct and applied relevance to the development theme selected by the candidate.

Level of course:(i) Master’s Course (one year) (Note: Master Degree programs which are less than 2 years in duration, are not equivalent to Master Degree in India.) (ii) Doctoral degree (up to three/four years’ duration)

Scholarship would be offered under following development themes and the candidates who have taken admission in UK university must apply under one of the themes: • Science and technology for development • Strengthening health systems and capacity • Promoting global prosperity • Strengthening global peace, security and governance • Strengthening resilience and response to crises • Access, inclusion and opportunity.

Selection and nomination: • The candidates who have received an offer of admission from any participating universities must upload a copy of the same on the Ministry’s portal at the time of online application, failing which their candidature will not be considered.

• The system would automatically generate the subject/theme wise list of students along with the name of the University.

• In case, there are a number of students than the available nominations, in that scenario, ranking of the institution as per the ‘QS Ranking 2019’ would be taken to draw the merit list.

Anti-fraud Policy: • The CSC is committed to administering and managing its scholarships and fellowships in a fair and transparent manner. For further information, see the CSC anti-fraud policy and the DFID guidance on reporting fraud available on CSC’s website at the following url: CSC anti-fraud policy: https://www.gov.uk/ government/publications/csc-in-the-uk-antifraudpolicy-and-procedure DFID guidance on reporting fraud: https:// www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ department-for-internationaldevelopment/ about#reporting-fraud • The Ministry’s anti-fraud policy is enclosed and may be seen as ANNEXURE-I. General Instructions: 1. Candidates who do not possess the eligi-

Candidates are required to apply online at the following portals: • Ministry of Human Resource Development portal by 10th January 2019.

Link for online application: http://proposal.sakshat.ac.in/scholarship/ • Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s Electronic Application System (EAS) by 19.12.2018 by 16:00 (GMT) Link for EAS: https://fs29.formsite.com/ m3nCYq/form62/form_login.html Note: • It is compulsory for the applicant to apply on both the portals before their cut-off dates, failing which would make his/her candidature ineligible.

• Sometimes the link does not open after the click or after copying to the address bar. You are required to type the link in the address bar to go to the link.

Important Links: • For applying online to the Ministry of Human Resource Development: http://proposal.sakshat.ac.in/scholarship/ • For applying to CSC trough EAS: h t t p s : / / f s 2 9 . f o r m s i t e . c o m / m 3 n C Yq / form62/form_login.html • 2018 Commonwealth Scholarship terms and conditions:Master’s: http://cscuk.dfid.gov. uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/terms-conditionsmasters-scholarships-low-and-middle-incomes-2019.docx-1.pdfPhD: http://cscuk. dfid.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/ terms-conditionsphd-scholarships-low-middle-income-countries-2019.pdf • The list of UK universities: http://cscuk.dfid. gov.uk/apply/uk-universities/partfunding/ • Details of the CSC’s selection criteria:http://cscuk.dfid.gov.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2018/10/selection-criteria-phdscholarships-low-middle-income-countries-2019.pdf • Handbook for Commonwealth Scholars and Fellows at: http://cscuk.dfid.gov.uk/ award-holders/handbook-forms

PH.D. ADMISSIONS

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

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FAQ for PhD Admission at IISER, General Queries Discussed Most of the students are unaware of the procedure of PhD Admission at IISER. Here in this article, we have tried to answer most commonly asked questions related to PhD admission at IISER. FAQ for PhD Admission at IISER and General Queries are Discussed below.

LAKHS OF STUDENTS TRY FOR PHD ADMISSION AT IISER EVERY YEAR. GETTING ADMISSION FOR A PHD AT IISER IS A GREAT DEAL

By Preety Suman

One can get admission in either of the IISER institutes at different locations in India 1. IISER Pune 2. IISER Mohali 3. IISER Kolkata 4. IISER Bhopal 5. IISER Berhampur 6. IISER Thiruvananthapuram 7. IISER Tirupati Most of the students are unaware of the procedure of PhD Admission at IISER. Here in this article, we have tried to answer most commonly asked questions related to PhD admission at IISER. FAQ for PhD Admission at IISER and General Queries are Discussed below. IISER is known to provide modern R&D amenities as well as comfortable housing for students selected into a PhD. program at the institute.

For enrollment, it is very important to have knowledge regarding the sequence of steps to be followed. A candidate who has qualified National Level Examinations like CSIR NET / GATE / DBT are eligible to apply for PhD at IISER. The online form has to filled and submitted. Once shortlisted, the candidate has to appear for the interview with the hard copy of the submitted form and relevant documents. After the selection in the interview Guide will be decided followed by project writeup. Few common queries that candidates face with the admission procedure are answered below.

Q 1: Who all are expected to submit a NOC (No Objection Certificate)?

Answer: The candidate who is in a job has to produce NOC. Q 2: In the PhD entrance test, what subject will I be tested in and what is the difficulty level?

Answer: In IISERs Ph.D. admission program, an online Ph. D form has to be submitted. The applicant should have qualified a National Level Examination; such as CSIR-JRF / GATE / UGCJRF/ / ICMR-JRF (category A) / DBT-JRF (category I)/ CSIR-UGC-LS / INSPIRE-JRF for PhD / JGEEBILS/ Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship / or some recognized score is mandatory. The candidates shortlisted after submission of online Ph.D. forms will be called for an interview. The final selection will be based on the performance in the interview. The interview will have two rounds (Round I and Round II).

Q 3: I have completed M. Phil. Will I be exempted from the Entrance Test?

Answer: IISER Institutes do not conduct Departmental Ph.D. Entrance exam. The applicant should have qualified a National Level Examination; such as CSIR-JRF/ GATE/UGC-JRF/ ICMR-JRF(category A)/DBT-JRF(category I)/ CSIR-UGC-LS/INSPIRE-JRF for PhD /JGEEBILS/ Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship or some recognized score is mandatory.

Q 4: How is a research topic/ preliminary research idea decided?

Answer: After the first round of interview candidates are given chance to interact with the faculty members in the Department along with lab visits. After final selection, the students can make a synopsis or proposed research work which can be modified by appointed the Guide and co-guide after selection. Mostly the proposed research work is based on the area of specialization of the Lab selected.

Q 5: Does University provide any Hostel facility to a PhD scholar?

Answer: IISERs have residential institute provides the hostel facilities to the students registered for a degree programme in the institute. Along with the mess other necessary facilities are also provided while residing in the hostel campus. Separate hostel facilities is provided for both girls and boys.

Q 6: How is a Guide and Co-Guide decided?

Answer: After all the steps of shortlisting and interviews, the guide and co-guide are decided by the members of the Board of Studies under the UGC-Guidelines.

Q 7: How many Guides am I allowed to work with?

Answer: The PhD Supervisor(s) can be any full-time faculty member(s) of the IISER Institute. In case of joint supervision, one supervisor will be from the parent department where the admission is taken whereas the co-guides may be taken from within the Institute or outside, as decided by the Guide of the parent department under which the candidate has taken admission.

from the Course work?

Answer: After successful admission to Ph.D in the Institute, the student shall be required to undertake the course work for a minimum period of one semester. Hence, there is no exemption from the course work as it is mandatory.

The exemption from the course work is provided only to the M.phil Degree holders.

Q10: Is a transfer to/ from another University possible during the course of PhD program?

Answer: Transfers are not possible during the course of PhD program. In such case, a candidate has to start afresh.

PhD Admissions at IISER 2018-19 • IISER Pune PhD Admission • IISER TVM PhD Admission • IISER Berhampur PhD Admission • IISER Bhopal PhD Admission • IISER Mohali PhD Admission • IISER Kolkata PhD Admission Q 11: Am I expected to teach while pursuing PhD at this Institute/University?

Answer: It is not permitted to teach while pursuing PhD at the Institute/University.

Q 12: Is it mandatory to publish a research paper before submitting the thesis for award of PhD degree from this Institute/University?

Answer: A Ph. D. student should have published at least one research paper in a recognized refereed journal based on his/her Ph.D. research work before submitting the thesis for the award of PhD degree from the Institute/University.

Q 8: Do I need to approach the potential supervisor myself?

Q13: Will I be selected for the written test/ interview if I meet the eligibility criteria?

Answer: The potential supervisor can also be approached after the final selection and lab visits, but the allotment of the Supervisor is not solely left on the student or the faculty.

Answer: A candidate fulfilling the eligibility criteria can appear for the written test/interview. The minimum eligibility criteria for appearing in interview at IISER is that the candidate should have qualified a National Level Examination; such as CSIRJRF/GATE/UGC-JRF/ ICMR-JRF(category A)/

Q 9: What are the criteria for Exemption

DBT-JRF(category I)/CSIR-UGC-LS/INSPIRE-JRF for PhD/ JGEEBILS/ Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship or some recognized score is mandatory.

Q14: How many seats are there for PhD admission this year?

Answer: The number of seats depends upon the number of vacancies available at the Institutes. The number of seats are decided well in advance and notified at the Universities/ Institutes website or advertisement.

Q 15: What do I need to do other than filling up the online form? Do I need to post a print out of the application form? Do I need to post copy of my certificates, mark sheets, etc.?

Answer: After the online form is submitted successfully, the candidate has to download the PDF of the application form. The printed copy of the form, duly signed along with marksheets and certificates should be submitted at the time of interview.

Question 16: I have done my M.Sc in botany, but I have a research project proposal in Microbiology, will I be eligible?

Answer: After final selection, the students can make a synopsis or proposed research work which can be modified by appointed the Guide and co-guide after selection. Therefore, research project designing depends on the student as well as the Guide and co-guide.

The topic of research is not related to eligibility criteria and it has to be passed by the Board of Studies of the Institutes.

At IISER, PhD Scholars are admitted in 2 sessions each academic year. The preliminary steps before PhD admission such as online form submission, relevant document submission during the interview should be done with proper knowledge. The research proposal designed for the interview should be innovative and productive. The candidate should be confident during the two rounds of interviews and should communicate with the approved guide. Following these procedures, roughly 20 students get admitted for each subject specialization, each session, in individual IISER institutes.

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PH.D. ADMISSIONS

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

NIT Warangal PhD Admissions December 2018 Session The National Institute of Technology, Warangal (NIT Warangal or NITW) is a public engineering institution located in Warangal, India. It is recognised as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India. given in the Annexure-II only is acceptable.

• No Objection Certificate from the employer, if employed.

• Relieving certificate from the employer (at the time of admission) • Photograph on the application form • Copy of the Grade/Rank Card of GATE or NET or CAT or GMAT (as applicable) • Fee payment receipt with transaction Number • Any other documents (List of publications (if any).

PhD PROGRAM ON PART-TIME BASIS:

NIT WARANGAL PHD ADMISSIONS DECEMBER 2018 SESSION FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED. INTERESTED AND ELIGIBLE CANDIDATES CAN CHECK OUT ALL OF THE DETAILS ON THE ELIGIBILITY, DIFFERENT KINDS OF PHD COURSES, APPLICATION PROCEDURE AND TIMELINES AND SUCH BELOW

By Diluxi Arya

The PhD Programs, in Full-time (FT) and Part-time (PT) modes, are offered in the following Departments: The candidates selected for admission into PhD under the Full-Time program are eligible to get institute fellowship according to MHRD rules. (Vide reference No. http://mhrd.gov.in/websites/ Upload files/RevPhd02032015.pdf, dt.

02.03.2015). The aforementioned institute fellowships are subject to change from Time to Time, under instructions of the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India.

Category-wise (OBC, SC, ST, PWD) reservations on overall available seats will be followed according to Government of India norms.

DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS & SPECIALIZATIONS: • B.Tech. or B.E. or Equivalent degree in Biotechnology/Industrial Biotechnology/ Chemical Engineering/ Biochemical Engineering / Biomedical Engineering M.Tech./MS in Biotechnology/Industrial Biotechnology/ Bioinformatics /Biomedical Engineering.

• Integrated M.Tech in Biotechnolog / Industrial Biotechnology / Bioinformatics / Biomedical Engineering.

• M. Sc. in Biotechnology / Biochemistry /

Microbiology / Botany / Zoology / Bioinformatics with M.Tech in Biotechnology.

HOSTEL FEE:

Research Areas: Bio Nanotechnology

Downstream Processing

Bioinformatics & Biological Data Analysis

Environmental Biotechnology

Biomass Gene Therapy Conversion & Bio Energy Bioprocess Engineering

Metabolic Engineering

Biosensors

Modeling & Simulation of Bioprocesses

Cancer Biology

Molecular Biochemical Parasitology

Cell Signaling

Molecular Gene Regulation of Human Diseases

Plant Biotechnology

Stem Cell Technology

Systems Biology

—

FEE STRUCTURE FOR FULL-TIME / PART-TIME DECEMBER 2018 SESSION ONLY INSTITUTE FEE:

(i) Application form is to be submitted online that’s available at http://admissions.nitw.ac.in.

All the necessary documents should be uploaded online. The proof of payment of registration fee (Rs.1000/for OP/OBC and Rs.500/for SC/ ST/PWD applicants ) must accompany the application form. The link to pay registration fee through SBI i-collect is www.onlinesbi.com/ sbicollect/icollecthome.htm. Other payments such as mobile payments (IMPS), NEFT, RTGS and Direct transfer won’t be accepted. If paid by any chance, it won’t be refunded. (ii) Checklist of documents to be uploaded along with the application.

Note: 1. The selected candidates are required to submit the fee online.

2. The original certificates will be returned only after completion of the course. The candidate is advised to keep sufficient number of Photocopies of the original certificates.

3. Accomodation to girls is subject to availability.

How to Apply: PhD PROGRAM ON FULL-TIME BASIS: (i) Application form is to be submitted online that’s available at http://admissions.nitw. ac.in. All the necessary documents should be uploaded online. The proof of payment of registration fee (Rs.1000/for OP/OBC and Rs.500/- for SC /ST /PWD applicants ) must accompany the application form. The link to pay registration fee through SBI i-collect is www.onlinesbi.com/sbicollect/icollecthome. htm. Other payments such as mobile payments (IMPS), NEFT, RTGS and direct transfer won’t be accepted. If paid by any chance, it won’t be refunded. (ii) The candidates who are employed and wish to do PhD under full – time must enclose NO OBJECTION certificate from the employer. (iii) Checklist of documents to be uploaded along with the application.

• Copy of SSC in support of Date of Birth • Copy of Intermediate/(10+2) Certificate • Copies of Provisional certificate / Degree Certificates and Marks Memos of the qualifying Examinations • Attested copy of the caste certificate (in case of SC/ST candidates) • For OBC candidates, OBC certificate issued after 1st April 2018 as per the format

• Copy of SSC in support of Date of Birth • Copy of Intermediate/(10+2) Certificate • Copies of Provisional certificate / Degree Certificates and Marks Memos of the qualifying Examinations • Attested copy of the caste certificate (in case of SC/ST candidates) • For OBC candidates, OBC certificate issued after 1st April 2018 as per the format given in the Annexure-II only is acceptable.

• No Objection Certificate from the employer, if employed.

• Relieving certificate from the employer (at the time of admission) • Photograph on the application form • Copy of the Grade/Rank Card of GATE or NET or CAT or GMAT (as applicable) • Fee payment receipt with transaction Number • Any other documents (List of publications (if any).

Note: The candidates selected for admission into PhD program under Part time basis are not eligible to receive institute fellowship.

Tentative Schedule of PhD Admissions for December 2018 Session: • Announcement of inviting Applications: 8th October 2018 • Last date to receive applications: 28th October 2018 • Announcement of candidates called for Written Test/Interview: 5th November 2018 • Dates of Written Test/Interview: 12th to 16th November 2018 • Announcement of Selected Candidates: 28th November 2018 • Dates for Reporting of selected candidates for PhD admission: 11th and 12th December 2018

HIGH SALARIED JOBS

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

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PhD Life Sciences Scientific Officer With Rs. 67,000/- Salary @ NIMHANS The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences is a medical institution located in Bangalore, India. Established in 1925, NIMHANS, the apex centre for mental health and neuroscience education in the country operates autonomously under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

PHD LIFE SCIENCES VACANCY FOR ELIGIBLE CANDIDATES AT NIMHANS. NIMHANS IS RECRUITING FOR RESEARCH VACANCIES FOR PHD LIFE SCIENCES CANDIDATES

By Diluxi Arya

NIMHANS recruitment October 2018.

NIMHANS is hiring PhD life sciences candidates. Interested and eligible candidates check out all of the details below: NIMH/PROJ/DBT/SJ/RE-NOTI/ SSO/2018-19 Post Title: Senior Scientific Officer (MRI and related neuroscience research techniques) (One) Name of the Project: “Accelerator program for Discovery in brain disorders using stem cells (ADBS)” Duration: 1-year # Principal Investigator: Dr Sanjeev Jain Age limit: 40 years Salary: Rs.67,088/- P.M (Consolidated) Essential Qualification: 1. A minimum of one year of Post-PhD / Post-MD research experience 2. Expertise in brain imaging research in-

volving human subjects Desirable Qualification: 1. Expertise with fMRI research paradigm creation (such as e- prime based / similar software) 2. Expertise with brain imaging analysis software 3. Experience in hands-on clinical research involving patients with neuropsychiatric disorders 4. Experience in EEG / fNIRS / Eye Tracking Research 5. PubMed Indexed Publications in the above-mentioned areas related to essential

and desirable criteria.

How to Apply: #The appointments are contractual for the period of one year, with extension after revaluation. (up to the conclusion of the project period i.e 14th January 2021) Eligible candidates that are fulfilling the above criteria could send the application by email giving details in their resume together with age proof and name of two referees to adbs.project@gmail.com. The candidates, that apply, should always

cite that the Notification No. and date in the subject line in the email.

The applicants are asked to ensure that they provide documentary support for all of the vital criteria (i.e. essential educational qualification, age, in addition to documents to support essential and desirable criteria).

Applications with incomplete documentary support won’t be considered.

Last date for receipt of all applications along with the applicable records is 23.11.2018 Applications received later won’t be considered.

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HIGH SALARIED JOBS

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

Scientist Recruitment With Salary of Rs. 2 Lakh pm @ ICMR-RMRIMS ICMR’s 26 national institutes address themselves to research on specific health topics like tuberculosis, leprosy, cholera and diarrhoeal diseases, viral diseases including AIDS, malaria, kala-azar, vector control, nutrition, food & drug toxicology, reproduction, immuno-haematology, oncology, medical statistics, etc.

MSC & PHD BIOCHEM, MICROBIOLOGY, MOLECULAR BIOLOGY & LIFE SCIENCES CANDIDATES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY FOR SCIENTIST POSITIONS THAT ARE AVAILABLE AT ICMR – RAJENDRA MEMORIAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES

By Diluxi Arya

ICMR – RMRIMS is hiring as per all of the details that is posted below: ICMR – Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India Agamkuan, Patna 800 007, Bihar, India Advt. No. ICMR-RMRIMS/Estt./ 01 /2018-19

Microbiology from a recognized University with 4 years R&D/Teaching experience in virology following 1st Class M.Sc. OR Second class Master’s degree in Virology/ Microbiology + PhD in related subject from a recognized University with 4 years R&D/Teaching expertise in virology after PhD. Post II Job Title: Scientist-B Biochemistry (One Position) Age: Not exceeding 35 Years Pay scale (as per 7th CPC matrix): Level 10 56100-177500 Qualifications: First class Master’s degree in Biochemistry/ Medical Biochemistry from a recognized University OR

Post I Job Title: Scientist-C Virology (One Position) Age: Not exceeding 40 Years Pay scale (as per 7th CPC matrix): Level 11 67700-208700 Qualifications: First class Master’s degree in Virology/

Second class Master’s degree in Biochemistry/ Medical Biochemistry + PhD in related discipline from a recognized University.

Post III Job Title: Scientist-B Immunology (One Position) Age: Not exceeding 35 Years

Pay scale (as per 7th CPC matrix): Level 10 56100-177500 Qualifications: First class Master’s degree in Immunology or First class M.Sc. In Life science with Immunology as special paper from a recognized University OR Second class Master’s degree in Immunology or Second class M.Sc. In Life science with immunology as special paper + PhD in related subject from a recognized University.

Post IV Job Title: Scientist-B Molecular Medicine (One Position) Age: Not exceeding 35 Years Pay scale (as per 7th CPC matrix): Level 10 56100-177500 Qualifications: First class Master’s degree in Molecular Biology/ Molecular Medicine/ Structural Biology/ Biophysics from a recognized University OR Second class Master’s degree in Molecular Biology/ Molecular Medicine/ Structural Biology/ Biophysics + PhD in related subject from a recognized University.

Application Instructions:

1. Only online applications will be accepted. Online application form is available at the Institute’s site (www.rmri.biomedinformri. com).

2. The online filling of application will start on 13 Nov. 2018 (10.00 am) and will probably be closed on 12 Dec. 2018 (5.00 pm).

3. After successful submission of online application, applicants are asked to send print copy of the duly signed system-generated Application form with Demand draft (DD) as application fee, if applicable (as mentioned below), 1 self attested passport size colour photo (like the uploaded photo ), along with self-attested copies of those certificates in support of date of birth, educational qualifications, expertise, reservation (if applicable), age relaxation (if needed ), testimonials, publications (first page only), research grant, honors & awards, etc. to the office of “The Director, RMRIMS, Agamkuan, Patna 800 007, Bihar, India” through Speed post/ Registered post only. One the top of the covering envelop, name of post applied for should be clearly written. It must reach to the office before or on 24 Dec. 2018 (5.00 pm), otherwise their candidature won’t be considered.

4. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/PwDs/ OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) should furnish their latest certifications in the prescribed format as per GoI Instruction, failing which their candidature won’t be considered.

5. In the event of any document/ certification / testimonial furnished is in language other than Hindi/ English, transcript of the same in Hindi/ English, duly attested by a Gazetted Officer, must be submitted.

6. Application fee: Candidates, including ICMR employees, have to pay Rs. 500/(Rs. Five hundred only) through Bank Draft (issued by State Bank of India or any Indian Nationalized bank), in favour of “Director, RMRI” payable at Patna. Any other mode of payment won’t be acceptable. Application fee is non refundable. But, application fee is exempted for SC/ST/PwDs, Women candidates and Indian scientists working abroad.

7. Incomplete applications in regard to the above mentioned points/ late application/ application with no payment of application fee (as needed ) will be rejected.

8. Original certificates, testimonials, experience certificates, etc. will be confirmed at the time of interview.

9. For further updates/ amendments, please see the Institute’s site (www.rmrims.org.in) 10. Closing date for filling online application: 12 Dec. 2018 by 5.00 pm Deadline: 12 Dec. 2018 by 5.00 pm

NEWS

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

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Dept of Biotechnology Showcases India’s R&D Potential in Berlin The Grand Challenges India (GCI) program, started by BIRAC (Govt. of India), BMGF and USAID, aims to promote Indian innovators to fix crucial health and development challenges facing the nation.

BILL & MELINDA GATES FOUNDATION (BMGF), USAID, WELLCOME TRUST, AND GRAND CHALLENGES CANADA WERE NOTABLE PARTICIPANTS

By Preety Suman

October 23, 2018, Berlin, Germany: An important Unit of Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), Gov. of India in a roundtable meeting in Berlin brought together donors development partners and multiple organizations to explore avenues for collaborations to innovate in India. It saw high-level involvement from donor agencies like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), United State Agency for International Development (USAID), Wellcome Trust and Grand Challenges Canada, among others.

Dr. Renu Swarup, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India said: “In the last two decades, we’ve made significant advances in science and technology that have altered the lives of millions in the nation. As India aspires to be a leader in research and development, it’ll be important to continue to foster collaborations between nations and donor agencies that are interested, to attain common targets. This meeting was organized to showcase India’s immense research potential and we are happy to mention that the country is still a preferred partner for cooperation for research and innovation.”

To bridge the gap between business and academia and promote innovation to deal with social needs in the biotechnology area, the Government of India set up BIRAC, a wholly owned company of the Government of India under the Department of Biotechnology. The Programme Management Unit (PMU)

in BIRAC was created to handle projects and initiatives on behalf of donor organizations such as the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India and BMGF who have the potential to alter the lives of millions in India.

In 2013, the BIRAC-PMU, BMGF and USAID began the Grand Challenges India (GCI) program, which aims to promote Indian innovators, to fix crucial health and development challenges that India faces. For a partner, Wellcome Trust joined PMU-BIRAC in 2016.

Dr. Steven Buchsbaum, Deputy Director, Discovery & Translational Sciences, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation stated that: “We are deeply encouraged by the increase of the Grand Challenges India initiative. India, with history and its research potential of innovation and science, has been an integral partner

https://stores.biotecnika.org

of the International Grand Challenges Community. Through our association with the Department of Biotechnology, we’ve taken great strides in addressing various public health and development challenges, and we expect to continue partnering with the Indian authorities in their endeavor to make India a global biotechnology hub.”

Grand Challenges India (GCI) program has supported projects at various stages from Jobs to innovation projects, from basic science research from labs to projects and to scale-up at various stages in their lifecycle. BIRAC is currently pursuing research efforts across areas, including vaccines immunity, maternal and child health information systems diagnostics development, food and nutrition, sanitation and hygiene. GCI, which began with 2 apps, has funded over 20 projects across 4 applications in five decades and has dedicated over USD 30 million in financing.

Dr. Shirshendu Mukherjee, Mission Director, Programme Management Unit, BIRAC Said: ”It’s heartening to see that the growth of BIRAC and the Grand Challenges India initiative. With support from the Government of donor agencies and India, we’ve contributed to creating a more enabling environment for entrepreneurship. These projects demonstrate incredible potential in addressing persisting social challenges, which are pertinent to not only the federal context, but global as well.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to Place India among the top few nations Government initiatives like Start-Up India And Make in India Entrepreneurship in various sectors. From the biotechnology space, in The government launched its National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2015-20 with the aim of creating a business by 2020.

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NEWS

October 30th, 2018 Vol. 02 NO 50

Tata’s Message to the Nation On World Iodine Deficiency Day Mumbai, October 22nd, 2018: With Global Iodine Deficiency Day observed on October 21 annually, Tata Salt, pioneers of this salt iodization movement in India, reiterated the need for greater awareness on the importance of iodine in the diet and measures for tackling iodine deficiency. tinue to keep true to our motto of ‘Desh Sehat ka Namak’.”

A component of this over US$ 100 billion Tata Group is a company with interests Industrial Living and Farm Essentials. The company’s story is all about exploiting the fruits of science.

Through its Basics portfolio that the company has impacted the lives of countless Indians.

Tata Chemicals

GIVEN THE AWARENESS LEVELS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF IODINE IN THE DIET, TATA SALT HAS TAKEN UP THE TASK TO SPREAD AWARENESS

By Preety Suman

Along with this, ESPN Cricinfo live scorecard page had cricket commentary with #missingIDeficiency of iodine may result in a multitude of health disorders like goiter, hypothyroidism, miscarriage, stillbirth, congenital anomalies, infant and neonatal mortality, and growth that is im-

paired.

Iodine deficiency is the leading cause of mental retardation. Deficiency causes damage and is particularly detrimental and in early youth. It can cause lack of capacity and a spectrum of disorders. Salt is known to be an effective micronutrient carrier making food grade salt one of the means of supplementing the diet of one with this nutrient.

By launch country branded Iodised Salt, Tata Salt reacted to the call of the government. USI is among the greatest examples of Private Partnerships in the nation.

Due to this initiative, 92 percent of the population of the country uses an Iodised Salt.

“Let us as a nation take a pledge to guarantee daily consumption of adequately iodized salt for a healthy mind and body,” Richa Arora, COO, Consumer Products Business, Tata Chemicals Ltd., further added, “We’re dedicated to catalyzing the country free of Iodine deficiency disorders, and making India healthy.

By launching India’s first branded salt tata Salt played an essential role. The genesis of Tata Salt was in serving a requirement, and we’re proud that we con-

Tata Chemicals leads the branded Iodised salt section of India. Extending its portfolio into food essentials from salt, TCL introduced the first manufacturer of pulses of India, followed by a range of spices. Superbrands ™ has rated among the top 10% in Business and Consumer brands across all business and consumer manufacturer classes Tata Chemicals.

The provider’s Industry Essentials product range offers a number of glass, detergents and other goods with ingredients that are key. Tata Chemicals is the world’s third largest producer of soda ash with manufacturing facilities in Africa, Europe, Asia and North America. Using its Farming Basics portfolio the company through its subsidiary Rallis, has a solid position in the crop protection business.

The Tata Chemicals Innovation Centre is capacities in the areas of biotechnology, nanotechnology and food sciences.

Amgen acquires Oxford Nanopore stake at 485 Crores On 10th October, the news broke about Oxford Nanopore that it had established a data analysis apparatus MinIT, and the chip that operates to provide high-throughput genomics research. The MinIT data chip can be controlled with a tablet notebook computer or cellular phone, and it comes preconfigured with applications to conduct sequencing experiments.

WITH THE ABILITY TO BE POWERED BY AN EXTERNAL BATTERY PACK, THE MINIT CAN BE USED OUTSIDE THE LAB AND IN THE FIELD–OXFORD NANOPORE CITES CASES OF RESEARCHERS ON A FARM IN EAST AFRICA IDENTIFYING PATHOGENS AFFECTING CROPS, OR COLLECTING REAL-TIME INFORMATION ABOARD MARINE RESEARCH VESSELS

By Shekhar Suman

Additionally, it is compatible with the Flon-

gle, an adapter for the MinION for smaller tests of Oxford Nanopore.

Now Amgen at a Press release announced that it has spent $66 million ( 485 Crores Rupees ) into mobile genome sequencer programmer Oxford Nanopore.

The Big Pharma hopes its efforts will be aligned with by the investment in using genomics to notify its drug development.

al hundred” individual genomes, and to help identify and validate new targets. “Oxford Nanopore’s long-read sequencing capacity creates a window to parts of the genome that have been out of reach, in addition to p ro v i d ing us a much better handle on struct u r a l variations that confer risk of a huge array of ailments,” deCode creator Kári Stefánsson stated in an announcement.

Its subsidiary, deCode Genetics, has utilized Oxford Nanopore devices to sequence” sever-

The proprietary sequencing technology due to which Amgen acquired Oxford Nanopore

employs nanoscale holes made by proteins inside a membrane.

Its devices, which vary from pocket-sized to benchtop models, measure changes in electrical current as strands of RNA or DNA pass through the holes.

The Investment on Amgen acquires Oxford Nanopore For its $66 million investment, Amgen acquired stock at precisely the exact same price offered in Oxford Nanopore’s $140 million increase last March–that valued the company at approximately $2 billion, since it intends to compete with Pacific Biosciences and the sequencing giant Illumina.