SERB Distinguished Investigator Award (DIA)

SERB DIA is a new scheme initiated to recognize and reward Principal Investigators (PIs) of SERB projects who have performed remarkably well. SERB has been supporting basic research in frontier areas of science and engineering through its various programs and schemes, and the number of researchers under the ambit of SERB has increased over the years, contributing significantly through their research output towards the progress of science and engineering of the country. The aim of the scheme is to reward good performance as well as to motivate ongoing PIs to perform exceedingly well. This positive reinforcement strategy would effectively improve the productivity of research undertaken and overall efficiency of the research ecosystem. SERB DIA is a one-time career award. The PI who receives the award will be called SERB DIA Fellow. The invitation-based call for application will be made once a year. The applicant should have completed SERB Core Research Grant (CRG) project in the previous financial year and the project should have been rated "Excellent". Only the PI of such projects and not the Co-PIs are eligible. The applicant should be in regular service and should have at least 5 years of service remaining before superannuation. The selection committee will evaluate the performance of the completed projects in terms of quality of work, output and its potential impact and rank them accordingly. Completed projects under schemes other than CRG would be brought under the ambit of DIA Scheme in coming years. The number of awards will be 35 per year, total not exceeding 100 at any time. The support will include fellowship of Rs.15000 p.m for 3 yrs. In addition, PI can also choose for a research grant, subject to submission of research proposal and its acceptance by SERB based on the peer review process and recommendations of the selection committee. PIs who are recipient of fellowships such as JC Bose/ Raja Ramanna/Academy fellowships or have an ongoing Swarnajayanti fellowship are not eligible. SS Bhatnagar Prize Awardees can apply, provided they fulfill other eligibility criteria. If selected, they would be provided research grant, but not fellowship.