The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) has launched the State University Research Excellence (SERB-SURE) scheme to strengthen the research capabilities of state universities and colleges, including private institutions. This initiative aims to create a robust R&D ecosystem and promote high-end research collaborations across India’s educational landscape.
Objective
The SERB-SURE scheme provides financial and research support to active faculty researchers in state/private universities and colleges to pursue cutting-edge research in science, engineering, and quantitative social sciences. It encourages new research ideas, expands scientific temper, and enhances the national R&D ecosystem.
Eligibility Criteria
Criteria
Details
Citizenship
Applicants (PI and Co-PIs) must be Indian citizens
Educational Qualification
Ph.D./M.D./M.S./M.D.S./M.V.Sc. or Ph.D. in Social Sciences (for QSS)
Affiliation
PI must hold a regular academic/research position in a UGC/AICTE/PCI-recognized state or private university/college
Co-PI Eligibility
Up to 2 Co-PIs (3 if one is a woman), holding a regular position in any Indian academic or research institution
Age Limit
Maximum 50 years (5 years relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PWD/Women)
Not Eligible
Research associates, postdoctoral fellows, ad-hoc/guest faculty, consultants, and centrally funded institution faculty
Previous SERB Grants
PIs with ongoing/completed SERB projects (except fellowships like NPDF, TARE, SIRE) are not eligible
Institution Limit
Maximum of 10 projects per institution per call
Nature & Duration of Support
Category
Details
Project Duration
3 years
Maximum Grant
₹30 lakhs + overheads
Equipment Cap
Not more than ₹14 lakhs
Cost Coverage
Equipment, research personnel, consumables, domestic travel, contingency, analytical/user charges, fieldwork
Technically rejected proposals must be revised substantially
Concurrent Projects
PIs with ongoing SURE projects can only apply under EMEQ
Transfer of Project
Allowed only between state/private universities and colleges
Plagiarism Policy
Strict third-party checks; proposals must be original
Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR)
Mandatory SSR activity during the project tenure to support outreach & equity
Important Contacts
Role
Name
Designation
Program Coordinator
Dr. Premila Mohan
Scientist G
Member Secretary
Dr. Ramesh V
Scientist E
The SERB-SURE Scheme provides a vital opportunity for researchers in state and private institutions to step into advanced research. It bridges the gap in research infrastructure and encourages inclusive growth across Indian academia. By fostering scientific excellence at the grassroots level, the scheme plays a crucial role in national innovation and knowledge generation.
