Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 1 Indo-Australian Fund for S&T Cooperation in Biotechnology Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund (IABF) Guidelines for Round Thirteen- COVID-19 Collaborative Research Projects (2020-21) Email: [email protected]Website: www.dbtindia.nic.in
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Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 1
Indo-Australian Fund for SampT Cooperation in
Biotechnology
Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund
(IABF)
Guidelines for Round Thirteen- COVID-19 Collaborative
Research Projects (2020-21)
Email ssdiwandbtnicin
Website wwwdbtindianicin
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 2
Contents
1 Purpose of these guidelines and processes for Round Thirteen-
COVID-19 collaborative research projects 3
2 About the program 4
21 Grant opportunity under round thirteen 4
22 Other government funding 4-5
3 Project grant period 5
4 Priority areas 5
5 Timelines for round thirteen of the IABF 5-6
6 Eligibility requirements 6
61 Eligibility criteria 6-7
62 Eligible activities for funding support 7-8
63 Costs not eligible for support 9-10
64 Cash and in-kind support from other sources 10
7 Assessment criteria and processes 10 71 Assessment criteria 11-12
72 Guidelines relating to assessment criteria 13
73 Supporting documentation 13-14
74 Eligibility checks and assessment of applications 14
75 Ethics and research practices 15
76 Notification of application outcomes to successful IABF applicants 15
77 Evaluation of the program 15
78 Unsuccessful IABF applicants 16
8 Submission of application 16
81 Submitting an application 16
82 Information required in the application 16
821 Applicantsrsquo details 16
822 Project proposal details 16
823 Project partners 17
824 Project plan and budget 17
825 Intellectual property rights 17-18
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 3
1 PURPOSE OF THE GUIDELINES AND PROCESSES
FOR ROUND THIRTEEN-COVID-19
COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH PROJECTS
These guidelines are provided to assist applicants for submitting an application under Round
Thirteen- for collaborative projects on COVID-19 for the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund
(IABF)
These guidelines are applicable to Indian IABF applicants only Australian applicants must
apply to the Australian Government
These guidelines provide an overview of the IABF which includes information on the funding
components current priority areas for funding and important dates for Round THIRTEEN
Provide information on the eligibility requirements that must be met in order to successfully
apply for funding under Round THIRTEEN information about funding provided to successful
applicants the assessment criteria that will be used in determining successful proposals under
Round THIRTEEN
Process
The CALL for proposals opens
Guidelines are published on DBT website
Complete and submit application by due date
Assessment of all applications All the applications are checked against eligibility criteria
Eligible applications are assessed against the assessment criteria and compared to other eligible applications
Recommendations of the Expert Panel
The respective Expert panels evaluate and provide recommendations on applications
Grant decisions
Joint Committee decides which applications are successful based on defined criteria
Announcement of the Resultsoutcome
Results will be announced on the DBT website
Successful Indian applicants will be informed about the outcome
(We may not notify unsuccessful applicants)
Grant agreement
A detailed agreement between Indian and Australian partner applicants is to be executed first and
submitted along with the application Application without IPR agreement will not be
considered Grant agreement after processing the application for clearance by the authorities
of the DBT concerned will be executed
Release of grant
First installment will be released after execution of respective agreements Project activities will
start The project will be monitored for progress and further releases will be made after
evaluation of reports
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 4
2 ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund (IABF) is a platform for bilateral collaboration in
science jointly managed and funded by the governments of India and Australia The aim of
the collaboration is to promote amp support cutting edge science and technology (SampT)
research by supporting collaboration between Indian and Australian researchers in
strategically focussed cutting edge scientific research and technology projects strengthen
strategic alliances between Indian and Australian researchers and facilitate India and
Australiarsquos access to the global SampT system
Since its establishment in 2006 the IABF has supported collaborative leading-edge research
between scientists in Australia and India across a range of jointly agreed upon priority areas
It has also helped to build linkages between premier research and educational institutions in
both countries
The Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund is managed jointly by the Department of
Biotechnology (DBT) Government of India and Department of Industry Innovation and
Science (DIIS) Govt of Australia
21 GRANT OPPORTUNITY UNDER ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE
IABF
The objective of the round 13-COVID 19 under IABF is to fund short collaborative
research projects with tangible outcomes focused on responding to the COVID-19
pandemic
The intended outcomes of the support are to
bring together leading research institutions andor industry in both India and Australia
currently working on areas relevant to COVID-19 in the priority areas of this call
projects of a mutually beneficial nature whose outcomes contribute to the global
response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Support is provided under Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund for Bilateral collaborative
research projects involving Indian amp Australian partners An application should clearly
demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving something worthwhilersquo
Under the IABF the Indian Government will contribute towards the direct costs of bilateral
activities in one of the priority areas for collaboration
The grant will be provided for one year with the budget approved as appropriate for the project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 5
22 OTHER GOVERNMENT FUNDING
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other sources including other
Indian Government funding mechanisms Where applicants already received Indian
Government funding for their core activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate
that the activity for which funding is sought is additional to their core activities
Applicants must list all current and requested funding under any other Government Funding
scheme for all key personnel included in their proposal
Collaborative Workshops will not be funded under round 13
3 PROJECT GRANT PERIOD
Projects may be submitted for financial support for one year An extension for another six
months may be considered after a thorough review provided you complete the project after
extension Indian Government support will not be provided for activities undertaken or
expenses incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement and funds will be released
based on the milestones achieved
4 PRIORITY AREAS
The priority areas of research for Round Thirteen COVID-19 of the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund are
i Development of immunotherapeutics
ii Development of animal model in vitro model for vaccine development
iii Assay development and validation for testing of vaccines and therapeutics
iv Viral genomics and bioinformatics
5 TIMELINES FOR ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE IABF
The call for applications under Round Thirteen of the IABF will be open for four weeks The
round will open on 4th June 2020 and close at 1155 pm (IST) on 2nd July 2020
The table below summarises the steps and indicative timing for the selection process for
Round Thirteen
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 6
Activity Timelines
Round Thirteen opens for applications 4th June 2020
Closing date for Round Thirteen
applications
2nd July 2020
Applications assessed and ranked by IABF
Expert Panel
6 weeks
Joint public announcements made by Indian
and Australian Governments on successful
applications
4 weeks
Contract negotiations with successful
applicants
4 weeks
Projects commence After execution of Agreements
Please note the timelines are subject to change
6 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
61 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible to apply for funding under the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund the
Indian applicant must
Submit an IABF application in one of the identified priority areas of research of the call
Be one of the following lsquoeligible organisationsrsquo (or a consortium of eligible
organisations)
Indian Education institution
Indian Cooperative Research Centre University
Indian Public research company
Indian Private research company
Indian StateTerritory-funded research organisation
Indian not for profit research organisation or
Other Indian incorporated entity
Be from an organisation that is registered under DSIR is incorporated or if a university
is exempted from income tax and
Have at least one Australian partner and confirmation from the implementing Australian
agency that a corresponding application from that Australian partner has been received
(this confirmation will be obtained by the Indian Government)
Joint applications involving more than one Indian partner are acceptable provided the
lead applicant is the main driver of the project and is eligible to apply
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 7
IABF projects should lsquolink Indian and Australian research institutions as well as other
partners collaborating on a single substantial project or conducting a range of research-
related activities in a specified field under priority area These Projects may be used as a
catalyst to bring together leading institutions in India in a particular research field with
Australian partners to help build research capacity and maximise the application
commercialisation and sustainability of research outcomes for prevention and treatment
wrt COVID-19 and thus support economic growth and development in India
Involvement of end-user partners is strongly encouraged and funding will be aimed at
Projects that can demonstrate a clear path to end use in support of health improvement
economic growth and development in India and Australia
Details of mutual consent in the form of written agreements to take care of equal
distribution of the knowhow generated among the Indian and Australian Partners
should be provided along with the application
Funding strictly as per DBTrsquos norms of International RampD funding to
industry Significant financial contribution by the Industry is required
Applicants must satisfy eligibility criteria to be considered for funding
62 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES FOR FUNDING SUPPORT
The table below lists the expenses for which funding provided under the IABF for collaborative
research projects on COVID-19 can be used in the priority areas specified
Expense Notes
COVID-19-related international and domestic travel
restrictions imposed by governments and institutions
may preclude travel during your project
However if travel restrictions are eased or removed
and domestic and international travel is available
eligible travel and overseas expenditure may include as
provided in next rows
International Travel to Australia
International economy class return airfares for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia to participate in
meetings amp activities related to the Joint project
Note International airfares for
Australian researchers travelling to
India for this project will be met by
the Australian Government
Domestic Travel within India
For workshops and meeting with the partners of the
project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 8
Living Expenses
Living expenses including accommodation and meals
for Australian researchers travelling to India to
participate in meetings and activities related to the joint
project
IABF will contribute a maximum of
AUD$300 per person per day or
AUD$ 4000 per person per month
whichever is the lesser amount
Note Living expenses including
accommodation and meals for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia will
be met by the Australian Government
Salaries
Salaries and on-costs for Indian personnelresearchers
employed specifically for the collaborative project (this
includes postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers)
Note The occupant of this position
must reside in India The maximum
amount of funding provided per
annum for each postdoctoral
fellowship and postgraduate stipend in
India will be as per norms applicable
to Indian other post graduate
(JRFSRFRA etc) positions as per
DBTrsquo norms (DBT follows DSTrsquo and
other Govt funding agenciesrsquo norms)
Bench Fees
Project-specific bench fees consumables special
equipment freight and access to facilities essential to
the project
Cost for activities including prototyping
commercialization product design and testing initial
manufacture and other translational activities which
will be useful in Indian Context
NOTE Travel and living expenses combined must not exceed 20 of the total funds
awarded Please note that budget under travel can be spent only if travel restrictions are
eased or removed and domestic and international travel is available
Other project-specific expenses
Any other project-specific expenses are subject to negotiation with the Department and
considered in relation to the value of the projected benefit to India and Australia Funding of
other project-specific expenses is at the discretion of the Department
Funding sought for eligible expenses must be clearly itemised in the application form
Funding will not be awarded for any other expense except at the discretion of the
Department where the applicant can demonstrate specific need for the specific expense if
any
Please note that grants are intended to contribute towards the cost of eligible activities and
are not intended to fully reimburse expenditure
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 2
Contents
1 Purpose of these guidelines and processes for Round Thirteen-
COVID-19 collaborative research projects 3
2 About the program 4
21 Grant opportunity under round thirteen 4
22 Other government funding 4-5
3 Project grant period 5
4 Priority areas 5
5 Timelines for round thirteen of the IABF 5-6
6 Eligibility requirements 6
61 Eligibility criteria 6-7
62 Eligible activities for funding support 7-8
63 Costs not eligible for support 9-10
64 Cash and in-kind support from other sources 10
7 Assessment criteria and processes 10 71 Assessment criteria 11-12
72 Guidelines relating to assessment criteria 13
73 Supporting documentation 13-14
74 Eligibility checks and assessment of applications 14
75 Ethics and research practices 15
76 Notification of application outcomes to successful IABF applicants 15
77 Evaluation of the program 15
78 Unsuccessful IABF applicants 16
8 Submission of application 16
81 Submitting an application 16
82 Information required in the application 16
821 Applicantsrsquo details 16
822 Project proposal details 16
823 Project partners 17
824 Project plan and budget 17
825 Intellectual property rights 17-18
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 3
1 PURPOSE OF THE GUIDELINES AND PROCESSES
FOR ROUND THIRTEEN-COVID-19
COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH PROJECTS
These guidelines are provided to assist applicants for submitting an application under Round
Thirteen- for collaborative projects on COVID-19 for the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund
(IABF)
These guidelines are applicable to Indian IABF applicants only Australian applicants must
apply to the Australian Government
These guidelines provide an overview of the IABF which includes information on the funding
components current priority areas for funding and important dates for Round THIRTEEN
Provide information on the eligibility requirements that must be met in order to successfully
apply for funding under Round THIRTEEN information about funding provided to successful
applicants the assessment criteria that will be used in determining successful proposals under
Round THIRTEEN
Process
The CALL for proposals opens
Guidelines are published on DBT website
Complete and submit application by due date
Assessment of all applications All the applications are checked against eligibility criteria
Eligible applications are assessed against the assessment criteria and compared to other eligible applications
Recommendations of the Expert Panel
The respective Expert panels evaluate and provide recommendations on applications
Grant decisions
Joint Committee decides which applications are successful based on defined criteria
Announcement of the Resultsoutcome
Results will be announced on the DBT website
Successful Indian applicants will be informed about the outcome
(We may not notify unsuccessful applicants)
Grant agreement
A detailed agreement between Indian and Australian partner applicants is to be executed first and
submitted along with the application Application without IPR agreement will not be
considered Grant agreement after processing the application for clearance by the authorities
of the DBT concerned will be executed
Release of grant
First installment will be released after execution of respective agreements Project activities will
start The project will be monitored for progress and further releases will be made after
evaluation of reports
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 4
2 ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund (IABF) is a platform for bilateral collaboration in
science jointly managed and funded by the governments of India and Australia The aim of
the collaboration is to promote amp support cutting edge science and technology (SampT)
research by supporting collaboration between Indian and Australian researchers in
strategically focussed cutting edge scientific research and technology projects strengthen
strategic alliances between Indian and Australian researchers and facilitate India and
Australiarsquos access to the global SampT system
Since its establishment in 2006 the IABF has supported collaborative leading-edge research
between scientists in Australia and India across a range of jointly agreed upon priority areas
It has also helped to build linkages between premier research and educational institutions in
both countries
The Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund is managed jointly by the Department of
Biotechnology (DBT) Government of India and Department of Industry Innovation and
Science (DIIS) Govt of Australia
21 GRANT OPPORTUNITY UNDER ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE
IABF
The objective of the round 13-COVID 19 under IABF is to fund short collaborative
research projects with tangible outcomes focused on responding to the COVID-19
pandemic
The intended outcomes of the support are to
bring together leading research institutions andor industry in both India and Australia
currently working on areas relevant to COVID-19 in the priority areas of this call
projects of a mutually beneficial nature whose outcomes contribute to the global
response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Support is provided under Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund for Bilateral collaborative
research projects involving Indian amp Australian partners An application should clearly
demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving something worthwhilersquo
Under the IABF the Indian Government will contribute towards the direct costs of bilateral
activities in one of the priority areas for collaboration
The grant will be provided for one year with the budget approved as appropriate for the project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 5
22 OTHER GOVERNMENT FUNDING
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other sources including other
Indian Government funding mechanisms Where applicants already received Indian
Government funding for their core activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate
that the activity for which funding is sought is additional to their core activities
Applicants must list all current and requested funding under any other Government Funding
scheme for all key personnel included in their proposal
Collaborative Workshops will not be funded under round 13
3 PROJECT GRANT PERIOD
Projects may be submitted for financial support for one year An extension for another six
months may be considered after a thorough review provided you complete the project after
extension Indian Government support will not be provided for activities undertaken or
expenses incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement and funds will be released
based on the milestones achieved
4 PRIORITY AREAS
The priority areas of research for Round Thirteen COVID-19 of the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund are
i Development of immunotherapeutics
ii Development of animal model in vitro model for vaccine development
iii Assay development and validation for testing of vaccines and therapeutics
iv Viral genomics and bioinformatics
5 TIMELINES FOR ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE IABF
The call for applications under Round Thirteen of the IABF will be open for four weeks The
round will open on 4th June 2020 and close at 1155 pm (IST) on 2nd July 2020
The table below summarises the steps and indicative timing for the selection process for
Round Thirteen
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 6
Activity Timelines
Round Thirteen opens for applications 4th June 2020
Closing date for Round Thirteen
applications
2nd July 2020
Applications assessed and ranked by IABF
Expert Panel
6 weeks
Joint public announcements made by Indian
and Australian Governments on successful
applications
4 weeks
Contract negotiations with successful
applicants
4 weeks
Projects commence After execution of Agreements
Please note the timelines are subject to change
6 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
61 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible to apply for funding under the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund the
Indian applicant must
Submit an IABF application in one of the identified priority areas of research of the call
Be one of the following lsquoeligible organisationsrsquo (or a consortium of eligible
organisations)
Indian Education institution
Indian Cooperative Research Centre University
Indian Public research company
Indian Private research company
Indian StateTerritory-funded research organisation
Indian not for profit research organisation or
Other Indian incorporated entity
Be from an organisation that is registered under DSIR is incorporated or if a university
is exempted from income tax and
Have at least one Australian partner and confirmation from the implementing Australian
agency that a corresponding application from that Australian partner has been received
(this confirmation will be obtained by the Indian Government)
Joint applications involving more than one Indian partner are acceptable provided the
lead applicant is the main driver of the project and is eligible to apply
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 7
IABF projects should lsquolink Indian and Australian research institutions as well as other
partners collaborating on a single substantial project or conducting a range of research-
related activities in a specified field under priority area These Projects may be used as a
catalyst to bring together leading institutions in India in a particular research field with
Australian partners to help build research capacity and maximise the application
commercialisation and sustainability of research outcomes for prevention and treatment
wrt COVID-19 and thus support economic growth and development in India
Involvement of end-user partners is strongly encouraged and funding will be aimed at
Projects that can demonstrate a clear path to end use in support of health improvement
economic growth and development in India and Australia
Details of mutual consent in the form of written agreements to take care of equal
distribution of the knowhow generated among the Indian and Australian Partners
should be provided along with the application
Funding strictly as per DBTrsquos norms of International RampD funding to
industry Significant financial contribution by the Industry is required
Applicants must satisfy eligibility criteria to be considered for funding
62 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES FOR FUNDING SUPPORT
The table below lists the expenses for which funding provided under the IABF for collaborative
research projects on COVID-19 can be used in the priority areas specified
Expense Notes
COVID-19-related international and domestic travel
restrictions imposed by governments and institutions
may preclude travel during your project
However if travel restrictions are eased or removed
and domestic and international travel is available
eligible travel and overseas expenditure may include as
provided in next rows
International Travel to Australia
International economy class return airfares for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia to participate in
meetings amp activities related to the Joint project
Note International airfares for
Australian researchers travelling to
India for this project will be met by
the Australian Government
Domestic Travel within India
For workshops and meeting with the partners of the
project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 8
Living Expenses
Living expenses including accommodation and meals
for Australian researchers travelling to India to
participate in meetings and activities related to the joint
project
IABF will contribute a maximum of
AUD$300 per person per day or
AUD$ 4000 per person per month
whichever is the lesser amount
Note Living expenses including
accommodation and meals for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia will
be met by the Australian Government
Salaries
Salaries and on-costs for Indian personnelresearchers
employed specifically for the collaborative project (this
includes postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers)
Note The occupant of this position
must reside in India The maximum
amount of funding provided per
annum for each postdoctoral
fellowship and postgraduate stipend in
India will be as per norms applicable
to Indian other post graduate
(JRFSRFRA etc) positions as per
DBTrsquo norms (DBT follows DSTrsquo and
other Govt funding agenciesrsquo norms)
Bench Fees
Project-specific bench fees consumables special
equipment freight and access to facilities essential to
the project
Cost for activities including prototyping
commercialization product design and testing initial
manufacture and other translational activities which
will be useful in Indian Context
NOTE Travel and living expenses combined must not exceed 20 of the total funds
awarded Please note that budget under travel can be spent only if travel restrictions are
eased or removed and domestic and international travel is available
Other project-specific expenses
Any other project-specific expenses are subject to negotiation with the Department and
considered in relation to the value of the projected benefit to India and Australia Funding of
other project-specific expenses is at the discretion of the Department
Funding sought for eligible expenses must be clearly itemised in the application form
Funding will not be awarded for any other expense except at the discretion of the
Department where the applicant can demonstrate specific need for the specific expense if
any
Please note that grants are intended to contribute towards the cost of eligible activities and
are not intended to fully reimburse expenditure
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 3
1 PURPOSE OF THE GUIDELINES AND PROCESSES
FOR ROUND THIRTEEN-COVID-19
COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH PROJECTS
These guidelines are provided to assist applicants for submitting an application under Round
Thirteen- for collaborative projects on COVID-19 for the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund
(IABF)
These guidelines are applicable to Indian IABF applicants only Australian applicants must
apply to the Australian Government
These guidelines provide an overview of the IABF which includes information on the funding
components current priority areas for funding and important dates for Round THIRTEEN
Provide information on the eligibility requirements that must be met in order to successfully
apply for funding under Round THIRTEEN information about funding provided to successful
applicants the assessment criteria that will be used in determining successful proposals under
Round THIRTEEN
Process
The CALL for proposals opens
Guidelines are published on DBT website
Complete and submit application by due date
Assessment of all applications All the applications are checked against eligibility criteria
Eligible applications are assessed against the assessment criteria and compared to other eligible applications
Recommendations of the Expert Panel
The respective Expert panels evaluate and provide recommendations on applications
Grant decisions
Joint Committee decides which applications are successful based on defined criteria
Announcement of the Resultsoutcome
Results will be announced on the DBT website
Successful Indian applicants will be informed about the outcome
(We may not notify unsuccessful applicants)
Grant agreement
A detailed agreement between Indian and Australian partner applicants is to be executed first and
submitted along with the application Application without IPR agreement will not be
considered Grant agreement after processing the application for clearance by the authorities
of the DBT concerned will be executed
Release of grant
First installment will be released after execution of respective agreements Project activities will
start The project will be monitored for progress and further releases will be made after
evaluation of reports
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 4
2 ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund (IABF) is a platform for bilateral collaboration in
science jointly managed and funded by the governments of India and Australia The aim of
the collaboration is to promote amp support cutting edge science and technology (SampT)
research by supporting collaboration between Indian and Australian researchers in
strategically focussed cutting edge scientific research and technology projects strengthen
strategic alliances between Indian and Australian researchers and facilitate India and
Australiarsquos access to the global SampT system
Since its establishment in 2006 the IABF has supported collaborative leading-edge research
between scientists in Australia and India across a range of jointly agreed upon priority areas
It has also helped to build linkages between premier research and educational institutions in
both countries
The Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund is managed jointly by the Department of
Biotechnology (DBT) Government of India and Department of Industry Innovation and
Science (DIIS) Govt of Australia
21 GRANT OPPORTUNITY UNDER ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE
IABF
The objective of the round 13-COVID 19 under IABF is to fund short collaborative
research projects with tangible outcomes focused on responding to the COVID-19
pandemic
The intended outcomes of the support are to
bring together leading research institutions andor industry in both India and Australia
currently working on areas relevant to COVID-19 in the priority areas of this call
projects of a mutually beneficial nature whose outcomes contribute to the global
response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Support is provided under Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund for Bilateral collaborative
research projects involving Indian amp Australian partners An application should clearly
demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving something worthwhilersquo
Under the IABF the Indian Government will contribute towards the direct costs of bilateral
activities in one of the priority areas for collaboration
The grant will be provided for one year with the budget approved as appropriate for the project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 5
22 OTHER GOVERNMENT FUNDING
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other sources including other
Indian Government funding mechanisms Where applicants already received Indian
Government funding for their core activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate
that the activity for which funding is sought is additional to their core activities
Applicants must list all current and requested funding under any other Government Funding
scheme for all key personnel included in their proposal
Collaborative Workshops will not be funded under round 13
3 PROJECT GRANT PERIOD
Projects may be submitted for financial support for one year An extension for another six
months may be considered after a thorough review provided you complete the project after
extension Indian Government support will not be provided for activities undertaken or
expenses incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement and funds will be released
based on the milestones achieved
4 PRIORITY AREAS
The priority areas of research for Round Thirteen COVID-19 of the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund are
i Development of immunotherapeutics
ii Development of animal model in vitro model for vaccine development
iii Assay development and validation for testing of vaccines and therapeutics
iv Viral genomics and bioinformatics
5 TIMELINES FOR ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE IABF
The call for applications under Round Thirteen of the IABF will be open for four weeks The
round will open on 4th June 2020 and close at 1155 pm (IST) on 2nd July 2020
The table below summarises the steps and indicative timing for the selection process for
Round Thirteen
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 6
Activity Timelines
Round Thirteen opens for applications 4th June 2020
Closing date for Round Thirteen
applications
2nd July 2020
Applications assessed and ranked by IABF
Expert Panel
6 weeks
Joint public announcements made by Indian
and Australian Governments on successful
applications
4 weeks
Contract negotiations with successful
applicants
4 weeks
Projects commence After execution of Agreements
Please note the timelines are subject to change
6 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
61 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible to apply for funding under the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund the
Indian applicant must
Submit an IABF application in one of the identified priority areas of research of the call
Be one of the following lsquoeligible organisationsrsquo (or a consortium of eligible
organisations)
Indian Education institution
Indian Cooperative Research Centre University
Indian Public research company
Indian Private research company
Indian StateTerritory-funded research organisation
Indian not for profit research organisation or
Other Indian incorporated entity
Be from an organisation that is registered under DSIR is incorporated or if a university
is exempted from income tax and
Have at least one Australian partner and confirmation from the implementing Australian
agency that a corresponding application from that Australian partner has been received
(this confirmation will be obtained by the Indian Government)
Joint applications involving more than one Indian partner are acceptable provided the
lead applicant is the main driver of the project and is eligible to apply
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 7
IABF projects should lsquolink Indian and Australian research institutions as well as other
partners collaborating on a single substantial project or conducting a range of research-
related activities in a specified field under priority area These Projects may be used as a
catalyst to bring together leading institutions in India in a particular research field with
Australian partners to help build research capacity and maximise the application
commercialisation and sustainability of research outcomes for prevention and treatment
wrt COVID-19 and thus support economic growth and development in India
Involvement of end-user partners is strongly encouraged and funding will be aimed at
Projects that can demonstrate a clear path to end use in support of health improvement
economic growth and development in India and Australia
Details of mutual consent in the form of written agreements to take care of equal
distribution of the knowhow generated among the Indian and Australian Partners
should be provided along with the application
Funding strictly as per DBTrsquos norms of International RampD funding to
industry Significant financial contribution by the Industry is required
Applicants must satisfy eligibility criteria to be considered for funding
62 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES FOR FUNDING SUPPORT
The table below lists the expenses for which funding provided under the IABF for collaborative
research projects on COVID-19 can be used in the priority areas specified
Expense Notes
COVID-19-related international and domestic travel
restrictions imposed by governments and institutions
may preclude travel during your project
However if travel restrictions are eased or removed
and domestic and international travel is available
eligible travel and overseas expenditure may include as
provided in next rows
International Travel to Australia
International economy class return airfares for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia to participate in
meetings amp activities related to the Joint project
Note International airfares for
Australian researchers travelling to
India for this project will be met by
the Australian Government
Domestic Travel within India
For workshops and meeting with the partners of the
project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 8
Living Expenses
Living expenses including accommodation and meals
for Australian researchers travelling to India to
participate in meetings and activities related to the joint
project
IABF will contribute a maximum of
AUD$300 per person per day or
AUD$ 4000 per person per month
whichever is the lesser amount
Note Living expenses including
accommodation and meals for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia will
be met by the Australian Government
Salaries
Salaries and on-costs for Indian personnelresearchers
employed specifically for the collaborative project (this
includes postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers)
Note The occupant of this position
must reside in India The maximum
amount of funding provided per
annum for each postdoctoral
fellowship and postgraduate stipend in
India will be as per norms applicable
to Indian other post graduate
(JRFSRFRA etc) positions as per
DBTrsquo norms (DBT follows DSTrsquo and
other Govt funding agenciesrsquo norms)
Bench Fees
Project-specific bench fees consumables special
equipment freight and access to facilities essential to
the project
Cost for activities including prototyping
commercialization product design and testing initial
manufacture and other translational activities which
will be useful in Indian Context
NOTE Travel and living expenses combined must not exceed 20 of the total funds
awarded Please note that budget under travel can be spent only if travel restrictions are
eased or removed and domestic and international travel is available
Other project-specific expenses
Any other project-specific expenses are subject to negotiation with the Department and
considered in relation to the value of the projected benefit to India and Australia Funding of
other project-specific expenses is at the discretion of the Department
Funding sought for eligible expenses must be clearly itemised in the application form
Funding will not be awarded for any other expense except at the discretion of the
Department where the applicant can demonstrate specific need for the specific expense if
any
Please note that grants are intended to contribute towards the cost of eligible activities and
are not intended to fully reimburse expenditure
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 4
2 ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund (IABF) is a platform for bilateral collaboration in
science jointly managed and funded by the governments of India and Australia The aim of
the collaboration is to promote amp support cutting edge science and technology (SampT)
research by supporting collaboration between Indian and Australian researchers in
strategically focussed cutting edge scientific research and technology projects strengthen
strategic alliances between Indian and Australian researchers and facilitate India and
Australiarsquos access to the global SampT system
Since its establishment in 2006 the IABF has supported collaborative leading-edge research
between scientists in Australia and India across a range of jointly agreed upon priority areas
It has also helped to build linkages between premier research and educational institutions in
both countries
The Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund is managed jointly by the Department of
Biotechnology (DBT) Government of India and Department of Industry Innovation and
Science (DIIS) Govt of Australia
21 GRANT OPPORTUNITY UNDER ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE
IABF
The objective of the round 13-COVID 19 under IABF is to fund short collaborative
research projects with tangible outcomes focused on responding to the COVID-19
pandemic
The intended outcomes of the support are to
bring together leading research institutions andor industry in both India and Australia
currently working on areas relevant to COVID-19 in the priority areas of this call
projects of a mutually beneficial nature whose outcomes contribute to the global
response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Support is provided under Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund for Bilateral collaborative
research projects involving Indian amp Australian partners An application should clearly
demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving something worthwhilersquo
Under the IABF the Indian Government will contribute towards the direct costs of bilateral
activities in one of the priority areas for collaboration
The grant will be provided for one year with the budget approved as appropriate for the project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 5
22 OTHER GOVERNMENT FUNDING
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other sources including other
Indian Government funding mechanisms Where applicants already received Indian
Government funding for their core activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate
that the activity for which funding is sought is additional to their core activities
Applicants must list all current and requested funding under any other Government Funding
scheme for all key personnel included in their proposal
Collaborative Workshops will not be funded under round 13
3 PROJECT GRANT PERIOD
Projects may be submitted for financial support for one year An extension for another six
months may be considered after a thorough review provided you complete the project after
extension Indian Government support will not be provided for activities undertaken or
expenses incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement and funds will be released
based on the milestones achieved
4 PRIORITY AREAS
The priority areas of research for Round Thirteen COVID-19 of the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund are
i Development of immunotherapeutics
ii Development of animal model in vitro model for vaccine development
iii Assay development and validation for testing of vaccines and therapeutics
iv Viral genomics and bioinformatics
5 TIMELINES FOR ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE IABF
The call for applications under Round Thirteen of the IABF will be open for four weeks The
round will open on 4th June 2020 and close at 1155 pm (IST) on 2nd July 2020
The table below summarises the steps and indicative timing for the selection process for
Round Thirteen
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 6
Activity Timelines
Round Thirteen opens for applications 4th June 2020
Closing date for Round Thirteen
applications
2nd July 2020
Applications assessed and ranked by IABF
Expert Panel
6 weeks
Joint public announcements made by Indian
and Australian Governments on successful
applications
4 weeks
Contract negotiations with successful
applicants
4 weeks
Projects commence After execution of Agreements
Please note the timelines are subject to change
6 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
61 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible to apply for funding under the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund the
Indian applicant must
Submit an IABF application in one of the identified priority areas of research of the call
Be one of the following lsquoeligible organisationsrsquo (or a consortium of eligible
organisations)
Indian Education institution
Indian Cooperative Research Centre University
Indian Public research company
Indian Private research company
Indian StateTerritory-funded research organisation
Indian not for profit research organisation or
Other Indian incorporated entity
Be from an organisation that is registered under DSIR is incorporated or if a university
is exempted from income tax and
Have at least one Australian partner and confirmation from the implementing Australian
agency that a corresponding application from that Australian partner has been received
(this confirmation will be obtained by the Indian Government)
Joint applications involving more than one Indian partner are acceptable provided the
lead applicant is the main driver of the project and is eligible to apply
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 7
IABF projects should lsquolink Indian and Australian research institutions as well as other
partners collaborating on a single substantial project or conducting a range of research-
related activities in a specified field under priority area These Projects may be used as a
catalyst to bring together leading institutions in India in a particular research field with
Australian partners to help build research capacity and maximise the application
commercialisation and sustainability of research outcomes for prevention and treatment
wrt COVID-19 and thus support economic growth and development in India
Involvement of end-user partners is strongly encouraged and funding will be aimed at
Projects that can demonstrate a clear path to end use in support of health improvement
economic growth and development in India and Australia
Details of mutual consent in the form of written agreements to take care of equal
distribution of the knowhow generated among the Indian and Australian Partners
should be provided along with the application
Funding strictly as per DBTrsquos norms of International RampD funding to
industry Significant financial contribution by the Industry is required
Applicants must satisfy eligibility criteria to be considered for funding
62 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES FOR FUNDING SUPPORT
The table below lists the expenses for which funding provided under the IABF for collaborative
research projects on COVID-19 can be used in the priority areas specified
Expense Notes
COVID-19-related international and domestic travel
restrictions imposed by governments and institutions
may preclude travel during your project
However if travel restrictions are eased or removed
and domestic and international travel is available
eligible travel and overseas expenditure may include as
provided in next rows
International Travel to Australia
International economy class return airfares for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia to participate in
meetings amp activities related to the Joint project
Note International airfares for
Australian researchers travelling to
India for this project will be met by
the Australian Government
Domestic Travel within India
For workshops and meeting with the partners of the
project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 8
Living Expenses
Living expenses including accommodation and meals
for Australian researchers travelling to India to
participate in meetings and activities related to the joint
project
IABF will contribute a maximum of
AUD$300 per person per day or
AUD$ 4000 per person per month
whichever is the lesser amount
Note Living expenses including
accommodation and meals for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia will
be met by the Australian Government
Salaries
Salaries and on-costs for Indian personnelresearchers
employed specifically for the collaborative project (this
includes postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers)
Note The occupant of this position
must reside in India The maximum
amount of funding provided per
annum for each postdoctoral
fellowship and postgraduate stipend in
India will be as per norms applicable
to Indian other post graduate
(JRFSRFRA etc) positions as per
DBTrsquo norms (DBT follows DSTrsquo and
other Govt funding agenciesrsquo norms)
Bench Fees
Project-specific bench fees consumables special
equipment freight and access to facilities essential to
the project
Cost for activities including prototyping
commercialization product design and testing initial
manufacture and other translational activities which
will be useful in Indian Context
NOTE Travel and living expenses combined must not exceed 20 of the total funds
awarded Please note that budget under travel can be spent only if travel restrictions are
eased or removed and domestic and international travel is available
Other project-specific expenses
Any other project-specific expenses are subject to negotiation with the Department and
considered in relation to the value of the projected benefit to India and Australia Funding of
other project-specific expenses is at the discretion of the Department
Funding sought for eligible expenses must be clearly itemised in the application form
Funding will not be awarded for any other expense except at the discretion of the
Department where the applicant can demonstrate specific need for the specific expense if
any
Please note that grants are intended to contribute towards the cost of eligible activities and
are not intended to fully reimburse expenditure
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 5
22 OTHER GOVERNMENT FUNDING
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other sources including other
Indian Government funding mechanisms Where applicants already received Indian
Government funding for their core activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate
that the activity for which funding is sought is additional to their core activities
Applicants must list all current and requested funding under any other Government Funding
scheme for all key personnel included in their proposal
Collaborative Workshops will not be funded under round 13
3 PROJECT GRANT PERIOD
Projects may be submitted for financial support for one year An extension for another six
months may be considered after a thorough review provided you complete the project after
extension Indian Government support will not be provided for activities undertaken or
expenses incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement and funds will be released
based on the milestones achieved
4 PRIORITY AREAS
The priority areas of research for Round Thirteen COVID-19 of the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund are
i Development of immunotherapeutics
ii Development of animal model in vitro model for vaccine development
iii Assay development and validation for testing of vaccines and therapeutics
iv Viral genomics and bioinformatics
5 TIMELINES FOR ROUND THIRTEEN OF THE IABF
The call for applications under Round Thirteen of the IABF will be open for four weeks The
round will open on 4th June 2020 and close at 1155 pm (IST) on 2nd July 2020
The table below summarises the steps and indicative timing for the selection process for
Round Thirteen
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 6
Activity Timelines
Round Thirteen opens for applications 4th June 2020
Closing date for Round Thirteen
applications
2nd July 2020
Applications assessed and ranked by IABF
Expert Panel
6 weeks
Joint public announcements made by Indian
and Australian Governments on successful
applications
4 weeks
Contract negotiations with successful
applicants
4 weeks
Projects commence After execution of Agreements
Please note the timelines are subject to change
6 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
61 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible to apply for funding under the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund the
Indian applicant must
Submit an IABF application in one of the identified priority areas of research of the call
Be one of the following lsquoeligible organisationsrsquo (or a consortium of eligible
organisations)
Indian Education institution
Indian Cooperative Research Centre University
Indian Public research company
Indian Private research company
Indian StateTerritory-funded research organisation
Indian not for profit research organisation or
Other Indian incorporated entity
Be from an organisation that is registered under DSIR is incorporated or if a university
is exempted from income tax and
Have at least one Australian partner and confirmation from the implementing Australian
agency that a corresponding application from that Australian partner has been received
(this confirmation will be obtained by the Indian Government)
Joint applications involving more than one Indian partner are acceptable provided the
lead applicant is the main driver of the project and is eligible to apply
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 7
IABF projects should lsquolink Indian and Australian research institutions as well as other
partners collaborating on a single substantial project or conducting a range of research-
related activities in a specified field under priority area These Projects may be used as a
catalyst to bring together leading institutions in India in a particular research field with
Australian partners to help build research capacity and maximise the application
commercialisation and sustainability of research outcomes for prevention and treatment
wrt COVID-19 and thus support economic growth and development in India
Involvement of end-user partners is strongly encouraged and funding will be aimed at
Projects that can demonstrate a clear path to end use in support of health improvement
economic growth and development in India and Australia
Details of mutual consent in the form of written agreements to take care of equal
distribution of the knowhow generated among the Indian and Australian Partners
should be provided along with the application
Funding strictly as per DBTrsquos norms of International RampD funding to
industry Significant financial contribution by the Industry is required
Applicants must satisfy eligibility criteria to be considered for funding
62 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES FOR FUNDING SUPPORT
The table below lists the expenses for which funding provided under the IABF for collaborative
research projects on COVID-19 can be used in the priority areas specified
Expense Notes
COVID-19-related international and domestic travel
restrictions imposed by governments and institutions
may preclude travel during your project
However if travel restrictions are eased or removed
and domestic and international travel is available
eligible travel and overseas expenditure may include as
provided in next rows
International Travel to Australia
International economy class return airfares for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia to participate in
meetings amp activities related to the Joint project
Note International airfares for
Australian researchers travelling to
India for this project will be met by
the Australian Government
Domestic Travel within India
For workshops and meeting with the partners of the
project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 8
Living Expenses
Living expenses including accommodation and meals
for Australian researchers travelling to India to
participate in meetings and activities related to the joint
project
IABF will contribute a maximum of
AUD$300 per person per day or
AUD$ 4000 per person per month
whichever is the lesser amount
Note Living expenses including
accommodation and meals for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia will
be met by the Australian Government
Salaries
Salaries and on-costs for Indian personnelresearchers
employed specifically for the collaborative project (this
includes postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers)
Note The occupant of this position
must reside in India The maximum
amount of funding provided per
annum for each postdoctoral
fellowship and postgraduate stipend in
India will be as per norms applicable
to Indian other post graduate
(JRFSRFRA etc) positions as per
DBTrsquo norms (DBT follows DSTrsquo and
other Govt funding agenciesrsquo norms)
Bench Fees
Project-specific bench fees consumables special
equipment freight and access to facilities essential to
the project
Cost for activities including prototyping
commercialization product design and testing initial
manufacture and other translational activities which
will be useful in Indian Context
NOTE Travel and living expenses combined must not exceed 20 of the total funds
awarded Please note that budget under travel can be spent only if travel restrictions are
eased or removed and domestic and international travel is available
Other project-specific expenses
Any other project-specific expenses are subject to negotiation with the Department and
considered in relation to the value of the projected benefit to India and Australia Funding of
other project-specific expenses is at the discretion of the Department
Funding sought for eligible expenses must be clearly itemised in the application form
Funding will not be awarded for any other expense except at the discretion of the
Department where the applicant can demonstrate specific need for the specific expense if
any
Please note that grants are intended to contribute towards the cost of eligible activities and
are not intended to fully reimburse expenditure
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 6
Activity Timelines
Round Thirteen opens for applications 4th June 2020
Closing date for Round Thirteen
applications
2nd July 2020
Applications assessed and ranked by IABF
Expert Panel
6 weeks
Joint public announcements made by Indian
and Australian Governments on successful
applications
4 weeks
Contract negotiations with successful
applicants
4 weeks
Projects commence After execution of Agreements
Please note the timelines are subject to change
6 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
61 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible to apply for funding under the Indo-Australian Biotechnology Fund the
Indian applicant must
Submit an IABF application in one of the identified priority areas of research of the call
Be one of the following lsquoeligible organisationsrsquo (or a consortium of eligible
organisations)
Indian Education institution
Indian Cooperative Research Centre University
Indian Public research company
Indian Private research company
Indian StateTerritory-funded research organisation
Indian not for profit research organisation or
Other Indian incorporated entity
Be from an organisation that is registered under DSIR is incorporated or if a university
is exempted from income tax and
Have at least one Australian partner and confirmation from the implementing Australian
agency that a corresponding application from that Australian partner has been received
(this confirmation will be obtained by the Indian Government)
Joint applications involving more than one Indian partner are acceptable provided the
lead applicant is the main driver of the project and is eligible to apply
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 7
IABF projects should lsquolink Indian and Australian research institutions as well as other
partners collaborating on a single substantial project or conducting a range of research-
related activities in a specified field under priority area These Projects may be used as a
catalyst to bring together leading institutions in India in a particular research field with
Australian partners to help build research capacity and maximise the application
commercialisation and sustainability of research outcomes for prevention and treatment
wrt COVID-19 and thus support economic growth and development in India
Involvement of end-user partners is strongly encouraged and funding will be aimed at
Projects that can demonstrate a clear path to end use in support of health improvement
economic growth and development in India and Australia
Details of mutual consent in the form of written agreements to take care of equal
distribution of the knowhow generated among the Indian and Australian Partners
should be provided along with the application
Funding strictly as per DBTrsquos norms of International RampD funding to
industry Significant financial contribution by the Industry is required
Applicants must satisfy eligibility criteria to be considered for funding
62 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES FOR FUNDING SUPPORT
The table below lists the expenses for which funding provided under the IABF for collaborative
research projects on COVID-19 can be used in the priority areas specified
Expense Notes
COVID-19-related international and domestic travel
restrictions imposed by governments and institutions
may preclude travel during your project
However if travel restrictions are eased or removed
and domestic and international travel is available
eligible travel and overseas expenditure may include as
provided in next rows
International Travel to Australia
International economy class return airfares for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia to participate in
meetings amp activities related to the Joint project
Note International airfares for
Australian researchers travelling to
India for this project will be met by
the Australian Government
Domestic Travel within India
For workshops and meeting with the partners of the
project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 8
Living Expenses
Living expenses including accommodation and meals
for Australian researchers travelling to India to
participate in meetings and activities related to the joint
project
IABF will contribute a maximum of
AUD$300 per person per day or
AUD$ 4000 per person per month
whichever is the lesser amount
Note Living expenses including
accommodation and meals for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia will
be met by the Australian Government
Salaries
Salaries and on-costs for Indian personnelresearchers
employed specifically for the collaborative project (this
includes postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers)
Note The occupant of this position
must reside in India The maximum
amount of funding provided per
annum for each postdoctoral
fellowship and postgraduate stipend in
India will be as per norms applicable
to Indian other post graduate
(JRFSRFRA etc) positions as per
DBTrsquo norms (DBT follows DSTrsquo and
other Govt funding agenciesrsquo norms)
Bench Fees
Project-specific bench fees consumables special
equipment freight and access to facilities essential to
the project
Cost for activities including prototyping
commercialization product design and testing initial
manufacture and other translational activities which
will be useful in Indian Context
NOTE Travel and living expenses combined must not exceed 20 of the total funds
awarded Please note that budget under travel can be spent only if travel restrictions are
eased or removed and domestic and international travel is available
Other project-specific expenses
Any other project-specific expenses are subject to negotiation with the Department and
considered in relation to the value of the projected benefit to India and Australia Funding of
other project-specific expenses is at the discretion of the Department
Funding sought for eligible expenses must be clearly itemised in the application form
Funding will not be awarded for any other expense except at the discretion of the
Department where the applicant can demonstrate specific need for the specific expense if
any
Please note that grants are intended to contribute towards the cost of eligible activities and
are not intended to fully reimburse expenditure
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 7
IABF projects should lsquolink Indian and Australian research institutions as well as other
partners collaborating on a single substantial project or conducting a range of research-
related activities in a specified field under priority area These Projects may be used as a
catalyst to bring together leading institutions in India in a particular research field with
Australian partners to help build research capacity and maximise the application
commercialisation and sustainability of research outcomes for prevention and treatment
wrt COVID-19 and thus support economic growth and development in India
Involvement of end-user partners is strongly encouraged and funding will be aimed at
Projects that can demonstrate a clear path to end use in support of health improvement
economic growth and development in India and Australia
Details of mutual consent in the form of written agreements to take care of equal
distribution of the knowhow generated among the Indian and Australian Partners
should be provided along with the application
Funding strictly as per DBTrsquos norms of International RampD funding to
industry Significant financial contribution by the Industry is required
Applicants must satisfy eligibility criteria to be considered for funding
62 ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES FOR FUNDING SUPPORT
The table below lists the expenses for which funding provided under the IABF for collaborative
research projects on COVID-19 can be used in the priority areas specified
Expense Notes
COVID-19-related international and domestic travel
restrictions imposed by governments and institutions
may preclude travel during your project
However if travel restrictions are eased or removed
and domestic and international travel is available
eligible travel and overseas expenditure may include as
provided in next rows
International Travel to Australia
International economy class return airfares for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia to participate in
meetings amp activities related to the Joint project
Note International airfares for
Australian researchers travelling to
India for this project will be met by
the Australian Government
Domestic Travel within India
For workshops and meeting with the partners of the
project
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 8
Living Expenses
Living expenses including accommodation and meals
for Australian researchers travelling to India to
participate in meetings and activities related to the joint
project
IABF will contribute a maximum of
AUD$300 per person per day or
AUD$ 4000 per person per month
whichever is the lesser amount
Note Living expenses including
accommodation and meals for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia will
be met by the Australian Government
Salaries
Salaries and on-costs for Indian personnelresearchers
employed specifically for the collaborative project (this
includes postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers)
Note The occupant of this position
must reside in India The maximum
amount of funding provided per
annum for each postdoctoral
fellowship and postgraduate stipend in
India will be as per norms applicable
to Indian other post graduate
(JRFSRFRA etc) positions as per
DBTrsquo norms (DBT follows DSTrsquo and
other Govt funding agenciesrsquo norms)
Bench Fees
Project-specific bench fees consumables special
equipment freight and access to facilities essential to
the project
Cost for activities including prototyping
commercialization product design and testing initial
manufacture and other translational activities which
will be useful in Indian Context
NOTE Travel and living expenses combined must not exceed 20 of the total funds
awarded Please note that budget under travel can be spent only if travel restrictions are
eased or removed and domestic and international travel is available
Other project-specific expenses
Any other project-specific expenses are subject to negotiation with the Department and
considered in relation to the value of the projected benefit to India and Australia Funding of
other project-specific expenses is at the discretion of the Department
Funding sought for eligible expenses must be clearly itemised in the application form
Funding will not be awarded for any other expense except at the discretion of the
Department where the applicant can demonstrate specific need for the specific expense if
any
Please note that grants are intended to contribute towards the cost of eligible activities and
are not intended to fully reimburse expenditure
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 8
Living Expenses
Living expenses including accommodation and meals
for Australian researchers travelling to India to
participate in meetings and activities related to the joint
project
IABF will contribute a maximum of
AUD$300 per person per day or
AUD$ 4000 per person per month
whichever is the lesser amount
Note Living expenses including
accommodation and meals for Indian
researchers travelling to Australia will
be met by the Australian Government
Salaries
Salaries and on-costs for Indian personnelresearchers
employed specifically for the collaborative project (this
includes postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers)
Note The occupant of this position
must reside in India The maximum
amount of funding provided per
annum for each postdoctoral
fellowship and postgraduate stipend in
India will be as per norms applicable
to Indian other post graduate
(JRFSRFRA etc) positions as per
DBTrsquo norms (DBT follows DSTrsquo and
other Govt funding agenciesrsquo norms)
Bench Fees
Project-specific bench fees consumables special
equipment freight and access to facilities essential to
the project
Cost for activities including prototyping
commercialization product design and testing initial
manufacture and other translational activities which
will be useful in Indian Context
NOTE Travel and living expenses combined must not exceed 20 of the total funds
awarded Please note that budget under travel can be spent only if travel restrictions are
eased or removed and domestic and international travel is available
Other project-specific expenses
Any other project-specific expenses are subject to negotiation with the Department and
considered in relation to the value of the projected benefit to India and Australia Funding of
other project-specific expenses is at the discretion of the Department
Funding sought for eligible expenses must be clearly itemised in the application form
Funding will not be awarded for any other expense except at the discretion of the
Department where the applicant can demonstrate specific need for the specific expense if
any
Please note that grants are intended to contribute towards the cost of eligible activities and
are not intended to fully reimburse expenditure
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 9
63 COSTS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR SUPPORT The following activitiescosts will not be funded for research projects by the Indian
Government
Not eligible for funding
Any activity equipment or supplies that are already being supported through other sources including
support from Indian government
Any cost incurred prior to the execution of a funding agreement with the Indian Government
Costs that duplicate the in-kind support from the applicant or other participants in the project
Costs involved towards the purchase or upgradehiring of software (including user licenses) and
ICT hardware (unless it can be used only for the project)
Administrationoverhead and infrastructure costs eg
capital expenditure for the purchase of assets such as office furniture motor vehicles
photocopiers and the construction renovation or extension of facilities such as buildings
and laboratories
costs such as rental renovations and utilities
Indian project managerrsquos salary and salaries for staff currently employed by the applicant
organization or a collaborating partner organization including salary related expenses
Staff recruitment and relocation costs
International Travel to countries other than Australia
International travel and living expenses for undergraduate and Masters students
Indian Researchersrsquo living expenses in Australia
Costs associated with the protection or patenting of intellectual property
costs associated with market research for products or research carried out by surveys to
assess the size of the market and the price of a particular service or product
costs associated with marketing Projects ie activities aimed at creating demand for
goods and services of consumers businesses and government rentals and utilities
Costs associated with the internal preparation of finance and audit statements
Debt financing
membership of professional organizations and groups
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 10
non-Project-related staff training and development costs
communications costs
staff recruitment and relocation costs
subscription costs for access by Indian personnel to major international research facilities
IABF grants are not intended to duplicate support available from other Indian Government
sources Where applicants already received Indian Government funding for their core
activities they will only be eligible if they can demonstrate that the activity for which funding
is sought is additional to their core activities This list is not exhaustive Other costs may be
ineligible where the department assesses they do not directly support the achievement of the
planned outcomes for the research activities or they are contrary to the objectives of the
IABF The recipient must ensure it has adequate funds to meet the costs of any ineligible
expenditure associated with the research activities
64 CASH AND IN-KIND SUPPORT FROM OTHER SOURCES
Applications will be assessed on the level of support that they can procure from both Indian
and Australian organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) for the
collaborative research proposal andor workshop
There is no requirement for applicants to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the Indian Government
Indian contribution to the project may be in cash andor in-kind The contributions may be
from the applicantrsquos own organization or other Indian sources for example collaborative
participants industry contributions or contributions from other Indian Government funding
sources Salaries for Project Coordinator may also be included as an in-kind contribution
In-kind contributions will be required to be detailed and costed In-kind costs must be directly
related to costs of delivering the activities of the project and can include salaries of staff for the
time they are involved and other costs incurred for the duration of these activities
Industry will have to contribute financially in the project as per DBTrsquos norms
7 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND PROCESSES
Applications will be assessed on a competitive basis against the assessment criteria
Follow the guide below to ensure all criteria are followed effectively
Provided that the Eligibility Criteria have been met applications under the Indo-Australian
Biotechnology Fund will be assessed on a competitive basis against the following assessment
criteria Each Criteria require supporting documentation to be provided with the application
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 11
The information contained in your application must be consistent with that provided to
the Australian Govt by your Australian partner If a document addresses more than one criterion clearly name the file to indicate which
criteria are addressed
Do not use overly technical jargon or refer to other sources such as websites for additional
information Acronyms or abbreviations must be spelt out in the first instance
Clear demarcation of objectives to be met by the Indian applicant and Australian Applicant
should be there
Funding will be aimed at projects that can demonstrate a clear path to product and end use
An application should clearly demonstrate that the activities will lsquoadd value by achieving
something worthwhile that would not occur without the grantrsquo
71 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
There are four assessment criteria which need to be addressed in the application
CRITERION 1
The extent that your project proposal will advance research in priority areas to deliver
tangible outcomes and benefits for both India and Australia (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the problem that your project will address why it needs to be addressed and
how your project will address it
b how your project will build on any existing research in one or more of the
priority areas
c the expected outcomes and benefits of your research and how they would
contribute to the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic including
demonstrating a clear path to end use such as application of outcomes for the
public good andor commercialisation
CRITERION 2
Scientific quality - the appropriateness of the design and methodology for your research
(25 points)
You should demonstrate this by
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 12
a providing the rationale for your research and clearly demonstrating your chosen
methodology
b identifying the current competitive landscape in your chosen area of research including a
comparative analysis of similar or alternate technology
CRITERION 3
Benefits to Australia and India (25 points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a the application of your research outcomes including the commercialisation potential of
new products processes or services
b the social environmental andor economic short-term and long-term benefits to be gained
from your project proposal
c how your project will develop robust and sustainable collaborations between Australia
and India in your chosen area of research
CRITERION 4
Your capacity capability and resources to deliver the outcome of the project (25
points)
You should demonstrate this by identifying
a your access to personnel with the right skills and experience including management and
technical staff and to any infrastructure capital equipment technology and intellectual
property required for the project
b a sound project plan to manage and monitor the project including arrangements for
governance and intellectual property rights and identification of risks and mitigation
strategies
c your ability to fund your share of project costs not covered by the grant
ADDITIONAL NOTES
The supporting documentation must confirm and demonstrate the claims
made Support for the project may encompass either a financial commitment
or an in-kind commitment
In-kind costs must be directly related to costs of delivering the activities of the
project and can include salaries of staff for the time they are involved and
other costs incurred for the duration of the activity The proportion of each
staff memberrsquos time allocated to the project should be specified
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 13
72 GUIDELINES RELATING TO ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
The assessment criteria provide the basis for assessment of an application It is the applicantrsquos
responsibility to provide all relevant information and documentation required
Please note that
ldquoApplicants may be asked to provide additional information to clarify any issues
raised during the assessment processrdquo
You are responsible for making sure your application is complete and accurate Giving
false or misleading information is a serious offence If we consider that you have
provided false or misleading information we may not process your application If you
find an error in your application after submitting it inform us immediately through
email
If we find an error or information that is missing we may ask for clarification
or additional information from you that will not change the nature of your application
However we can refuse to accept any additional information from you that would
change your submission after the application closing time
73 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION Supporting documentation is mandatory for the full assessment of your application
Plan your application ahead of time to ensure all required supporting documentation is
uploaded by the due date Documents will not be accepted after the closing date
Below is a supporting documentation checklist to assist in preparation of your application
Supporting Documentation Has the document been
provided in your
application
Detailed written proposal in the format provided 1048709
Letter from the Australian collaborator confirming that the
proposal is jointly prepared The letter should state that the
Australian collaborator agrees to submit an equivalent
proposal to the Australian Government
1048709
Details of project partners and Curriculum vitae for each of
the key personnel (both Indian and Australian) 1048709
i) Detailed Project plan ii) Indian Component Budget and
iii) Australian Component Budget 1048709
Declaration Certificate Letter of support from the applying
organization clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial
support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
1048709
If applicable letter of support from any other Indian partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos 1048709
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 14
financial support (cash andor in-kind) for the project and
commitment to engage in the research collaboration
Letter of support from the Australian partner organization
clearly articulating the organizationrsquos financial support
(cash andor in-kind) and commitment to engage in the
research collaboration
1048709
Letter of support from any other international partner
organizations clearly articulating the organizationrsquos
financial support (cash andor in-kind) and commitment to
engage in the research collaboration
1048709
Wherever applicable a letter of support from partner clearly
articulating the organizationrsquos commitment to actively
engage in the research collaboration needs to be in place
1048709
IPR agreement signed as per the template provided 1048709
Copies of Ethical and other clearancesrsquo certificates obtained
applications submitted for such approvals to respective
bodies if relevant to the project
1048709
74 ELIGIBILITY CHECKS AND ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONS
All applications received by the notified closing date will be reviewed by the Department to
determine whether they meet the eligibility criteria The application will then undergo a peer
review process by an independent Expert panel against the assessment criteria
The panel will be appointed by the Secretary DBT Panel members will be subject to standard
conflict of interest requirements where necessary
Each government assesses applications independently in accordance with its own processes
and decides which projects to refer for joint consideration
Drawing on the recommendations from the panel the Indian and Australian Governments will
negotiate on the final set of projects to be supported under the round Their decision will be
final
The list of successful applications will be published on the Departmentrsquos website and
letteremail of selection will be sent to the successful applicants
The Program officer and division decide which grants to approve taking into account the
recommendations of the committee and the availability of grant funds
The Program Officerrsquos decision is final in all matters including
the grant approval
the grant funding to be awarded
any conditions attached to the offer of grant funding
We cannot review decisions about the merits of your application
The Program officer will not approve funding if there are insufficient program funds available
across relevant financial years for the program
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 15
75 ETHICS AND RESEARCH PRACTICES
Certificatesapprovals of Ethical clearance and other clearances if relevant for the project
must be submitted along with the application In case requests for the same have been made
to the respective approving authoritiesbodies copies of such applicationsletters may be
submitted along with the application As soon as the approvals are obtained DBT may be
informed about the same with proper evidence Funds will not be released without these
documents Also please visit website of the DBT for details on the policy on Ethics
76 NOTIFICATION OF APPLICATION OUTCOMES TO
SUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
The Department will write to successful Indian applicants advising them of the level of
funding the Indian Government will offer to support the project proposal Applicants must
then enter into a funding agreement with the DBT that sets out the terms and conditions
associated with the IABF funding
The successful application will form basis of the funding agreement and associated schedules
which must include details of the project activities budget phases and performance indicators
for project reporting
The Department will be the last signatory to the agreement and has no obligation to
provide successful applicants with any funding until the funding agreement has been
executed by both parties and required documents including IPR agreements signed
betweenamong the Indian and Australian partners have been provided by the applicant
Successful applicants must not start work on the project until the funding agreement is
in place
The Funding Agreement stipulates reporting obligations and relevant due dates Reports must
be submitted using the templates provided by DBT If the Recipient is unable to submit a report
by the due date specified in the Funding Agreement they must notify the Department prior to
the due date This notification must include the reason for the delay which will be considered
and may result in action being taken in accordance with the Funding Agreement
The DBT may recover grant funds if there is a breach of the grant
agreement
77 EVALUATION OF THE PROGRAM
Under the terms of the funding agreement successful applicants will be required to participate
in a broad evaluation of the program if requested to do so by the Department This evaluation
if conducted will seek to identify the degree to which the program is meeting its objectives
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 16
78 UNSUCCESSFUL IABF APPLICANTS
Results will be announced at the DBT website Unsuccessful candidates may not be notified
Feedback on the overall round outcomes will be provided to unsuccessful applicants if they
request the same
8 SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
81 SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION
Applicants for funding should submit completed application form and IPR agreement
between the partners only in the format provided through single e-mail with all relevant
clearly labelled attachments to the following address
Dr Suraksha S Diwan Scientist lsquoErsquo
Department of Biotechnology
Ministry of Science amp Technology
Govt of India
E-mail address ssdiwandbtnicin
82 INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE APPLICATION
The application must have the following pages and fields which must be completed as
described below
821 APPLICANTSrsquo DETAILS
Organisation name and Affiliation the eligible organisation (see Eligibility Criteria) being an
Indian legal entity which if successful will enter into a contractual funding agreement with
the Indian Government Project Coordinator the researcher who will manage the project
Contact Officer the officer nominated to receive all correspondence in relation to the
application including the outcomes at each levelstep If the applicant is from a University the
Contact Officer must where possible be from the Universityrsquos Research Office
822 PROJECT DETAILS
Project Title limited to 200 characters or 25 words
Activity Type A collaborative research project
Priority Area of Research select the most appropriate priority area of research
Tentative Proposed start date and finish date please note that project tenure may only span
up to a maximum of 1 year duration
Number of Indian and Australian personnel participating in the project
Amount of Indian and Australian funding sought for the proposed project proposal
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 17
Project Summary provide a summary of the project including aims and objectives Use
simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200 words)
Expected Outcomes detail out the anticipated outcomes of the project Specify the key
outcomes including any joint publications from the original IABF funded project - whether
completed or nearing completion and explain how the proposed project will bring the research
closer to end-use stage Use simple-English non-technical terminology (maximum of 200
words)
Project Snapshot provide a brief non-technical overview of the project objectives which if
successful may be used to publicly promote the project (maximum of 50 words)
823 PROJECT PARTNERS
Indian partner(s) provide contact details of each Indian partner along with letter of support
from each partner
Australian partner(s) provide contact details of each Australian partner along with letter of
support from each partner
824 PROJECT PLAN AND BUDGET
Project details a maximum of 6 activities which must include
the activity name
funding sought for the activity from the IABF
description of the activities to be undertaken during the project duration including a
detailed costingbreakup of eligible expenses to be supported using IABF funding
a list of the key personnel that will be involved in the activity
the expected outcomes from the activities and
measurable performance indicators against the activities
Contributions applicants do not need to demonstrate that the Indian contribution (cash andor
in-kind) to the project matches or is more than the funding sought from the IABF However
the level of support (cash andor in-kind) for the project from Indian and Australian
organisations (including the applicantrsquos own organisation) will be considered in the assessment
of the proposal (see Assessment Criteria and Cash and in-kind support from other sources)
Industry will have to put in financial contribution in the project
825 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Applicants must provide details of the Intellectual Property (IP) issues in their applications
This includes both the use of IP in the project proposal and the proposed ownership of rights
of IP generated by the project as well as strategies for protecting Indiarsquos interests The template
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED
Guidelines for Round Thirteen (2020-21) of the Indo-Australian Biotech Fund 18
of IPR agreement is provided and must be filled in and signed by the partners and submitted
along with the application Where IP is likely to be generated by the project Applicants will
be required to execute additional protocols or contracts with their Indian partners on the
management of IP issues These agreements should be in accordance with laws and regulations
prevailing in India and Australia and provide for
Adequate and effective protection and equitable distribution of any benefits from IP
rights created in or resulting directly from cooperative activities (foreground IP rights)
Ownership of foreground IP rights to be allocated on the basis of respective contribution
and equitable interests
Terms and conditions for the commercialisation and other forms of dissemination of the
foreground IP rights and
Adequate and effective protection of IP rights provided by the organisations enterprises
and institutions prior to or in the course of such cooperative activities for example the
licensing or utilisation of such IP rights on equitable terms (background IP rights)
PLEASE NOTE THAT A WRITTEN AGREEMENT DULY SIGNED BY BOTH
INDIAN AND AUSTRALIAN PARTNERS IS MANDATORY TO BE PROVIDED
ALONGWITHIN THE APPLICATION IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED