India and Denmark will soon embark on joint research projects in the area of human health science biotechnology to strengthen and intensify the research effort within the area of human health science biotechnology and to integrate the specific competencies of the Indo-Danish research groups involved.

Applications for funding of research should be directed towards human health science biotechnology specifically within chronic disorders – biology, prevention, diagnostics and treatment. Examples of topics that fall within the focus of the programme are stem cells and stem cell therapy; molecular epidemiology - host and pathogen components; biotechnology perspectives of traditional medicine; and  vaccines and diagnostics.

The objective of the programme is to strengthen and intensify the research effort within the area of human health science biotechnology and to integrate the specific competencies of the Indo-Danish research groups involved. Further, for both countries it is of major importance to provide human health science biotechnology solutions that accommodates the related challenges in a sustainable way.

The programme is a cooperation between the Indian Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Danish Council for Strategic Research (DCSR). Both these institutions have invited the scientists from universities, research institutions and private companies in India and Denmark to apply for funding of joint Indo-Danish strategic research projects within the area of human health science biotechnology.

The programme is pursuant to the memorandum of understanding (MoU) of October 25, 2004, the Indian Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Danish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Higher Education have decided to further develop and strengthen the Danish-Indian research cooperation within health science biotechnology.

The total economical frame (DBT and DCSR funding) is around €2.6 million. €1.3 million is funded by the DCSR and €1.3 million is funded by DBT. One or two projects may be funded. Significant co-financing as well as the participation of relevant public partners and/or private enterprises other than the main applicants is expected.

The DBT and the DCSR will support joint strategic research projects for a period of three to five years covering direct project costs, e.g. research activities, research training (PhDs and post docs), travel costs, research stays abroad, courses and international conferences (according to national rules).