Annexure 3: Department of Biotechnology Programmes

1.  Assistance to Universities – Under this programme, assistance has been provided to organise 19 MSc courses in general Biotechnology, three MSC courses in Agricultural Biotechnology, one MVSc course in Animal Biotechnology, one MSc course in Medical Biotechnology, one MSc course in Marine Biotechnology, and five M/Technology/MSc(Technology) in Biochemical Engineering, Bioprocess Technology, and Biotechnology. In addition, post-doctoral programmes of two-year duration have been supported by four leading research institutions. Further, one-year duration have supported in four leading research institutions. Further, one-year post MD/MS training course has been introduced in two institutions.

2.  Other Training Programmes: DBT also organises three training programmes short – term programme for mid-career scientists, and short-term (2-3 months) and long-term (one-year) programmes in Technician Training.

3.  Diploma Courses: Long-term diploma course of one-year duration in Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, and Sri Venkateshwara College, University of Delhi (South Campus).

4.  Post-Msc/MTech Training in Industries: This is provided by Biotech Consortium India Ltd. (BCIL), a company promoted by DBT, to organise training programmes of six months duration in industries. The candidates are given a stipend of Rs.5,000.00 per month. BCIL also helps these candidates, on completion of the courses to get placements in industries.

5.  Biotechnology Associateships: Under this programme two types of Associateships are awarded – National Associateship, and Overseas Associateship. National Associateship is awarded to undertake advanced research in leading Indian research institutions for a period of nine months to two years, under a supervisor from other than the candidate’s parent institution. The scheme also has the provision for training in an overseas laboratory for a period of three months. Overseas Associateship is meant for undertaking advanced research or undergoing specialised research training in overseas research institutions. There are two categories - long-term (tenable for one-year) and short-term for 3-6 months.