Cutting-Edge Research Enhancement and Scientific Training (CREST) Award

These fellowships are granted to biotech researchers for advanced scientific training abroad with the aim to promote capacity building in cutting edge areas of biotechnology and life sciences. This scheme promotes and support scientists of highest merit in their pursuit of skill enhancement in scientific research/training in overseas laboratories. The duration of the associateship ranges from 1 month up to 1 yr. However, preference/priority is given to proposals for duration of 3 months and above up to 1 yr. Only proposals of exceptional merit and justification are considered for 1 - 2 months of associateship. The maximum age limit is 55 years. The total associateship grant includes stipend, preparatory allowance and economy class air-fare. The Associate is entitled to US $ 3000/- per month or its equivalent in foreign exchange in the country of study during the period of the Associateship. The Associates for duration more than 6 months are entitled to preparatory allowance of Rs. 1 Lakh while those availing for 6 months or lesser are entitled to Rs. 50,000/-. This allowance is meant to cover the visa fees, medical insurance, airport tax, extra baggage cost, purchase of books, local transport, cost of attending conferences in the host country etc.