KSCSTE Emeritus Scientist Scheme

Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) runs the KSCSTE Emeritus Scientist Scheme for retired scientists who want to keep doing research in their field. Selected scientists get a monthly fellowship of ₹31,000 along with an annual grant of ₹1,00,000 for contingency expenses. The scheme helps use the experience of senior scientists for the scientific development of Kerala.

This scheme is for scientists and academicians from Kerala who have retired from well-known institutions with a strong record of research publications. Applications are reviewed by an expert committee, and chosen candidates can work on research projects for up to 3 years at KSCSTE-recognised R&D centres.

KSCSTE Emeritus Scientist Scheme

Benefits

Selected candidates for this fellowship get the following support:

Researchers can also appoint a Project Fellow to help with technical support for their research work. The total fellowship period is up to 3 years.

Eligibility

To apply for KSCSTE Emeritus Scientist Scheme, candidates must meet these conditions:

1. Must be a permanent resident of Kerala (by birth or domicile).
2. Should be a retired scientist or academician who has worked in a well-known institution with good scientific achievements.
3. Must apply within 5 years of retirement.
4. Must have published at least 3 peer-reviewed research papers in SCI-indexed journals with impact factor above 2.0, OR filed at least one patent in the last 3 years.
5. Should not have received an Emeritus Scientist Fellowship from KSCSTE or any other organisation before.
6. The host institution for the research work must be a KSCSTE-recognised R&D centre.

Application Process

Applicants need to submit their application through the KSCSTE web portal. Here are the steps:

STEP 1 - Go to the official KSCSTE web portal at https://submit.kscste.kerala.gov.in/ and fill in the online application form with your details.

STEP 2 - Your application goes through a preliminary check where officials verify your basic eligibility and documents.

STEP 3 - Five subject experts review your research proposal. Only proposals that score above 5 on a 10-point scale move to the next stage.

STEP 4 - If your proposal clears the peer review, you get invited to present your work before a Programme Advisory Committee. After a positive recommendation, you get formal approval and sign an agreement to begin the research.

For any help, contact the Scientist-in-charge at Sasthra Bhavan, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram - 695004. Phone: +91 471 2548218.

Documents

Keep these documents ready before applying:

• Valid identity proof and a recent passport-sized photograph.
• Proof of permanent residency in Kerala.
• Ph.D. certificate.
• Copies of research publications from the last 3 years.
• Updated biodata with a full list of publications.
• Documentary proof of retirement signed by your former institution head.
• A signed declaration from you as the applicant.
• A signed consent letter and endorsement from the host institution head.

References

All official documents and updates are available here:

• Official KSCSTE Website
• Program Guidelines
• Terms and Conditions

FAQ's

What is KSCSTE Emeritus Scientist Scheme?

This is a state-level scheme by KSCSTE, Kerala that gives retired scientists a chance to continue research in their field. Selected candidates get a monthly fellowship and annual grant for up to 3 years.

Who can apply for this scheme?

Retired scientists or academicians from Kerala who have published research papers in reputed journals can apply. They must apply within 5 years of retirement.

What is the fellowship amount?

Selected candidates get ₹31,000 per month as fellowship and ₹1,00,000 per year as contingency grant for up to 3 years.

Can I apply if I already got a similar fellowship?

No. People who have already received an Emeritus Scientist Fellowship from KSCSTE or any other organisation cannot apply.

How are candidates selected?

The selection process includes a preliminary check, peer review by five subject experts, and a final presentation before the Programme Advisory Committee.