To further develop and strengthen the Danish-Indian research cooperation within health science biotechnology, India and Denmark will soon embark on strategic research projects within human health science biotechnology.

Department of biotechnology (DBT), India and the Innovation Fund Denmark (previously Danish Council for Strategic Research) are the implementing agencies for this research project.

The objective of this progamme, through the present joint strategic research 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.

Applications for funding of research should be directed towards human health science biotechnology within a theme encompassing chronic-non communicable disorders. The research should link basic biological research and health and disease awareness with clinical research, including epidemiology. The research should aim to develop more rapid and precise diagnostics and better prevention together with new, targeted, effective and personalized medical interventions and care. The concepts of traditional medicine might be included.

Both the DBT and the IFD have invited 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. Funding to Indian companies shall be as per DBT norms. The last date for submitting the proposal is October 15, 2015.

The total economical frame (DBT and IFD funding) is approx. €2.6 million. €1.3 million is funded by the IFD and €1.3 million is funded by DBT. The DBT and the IFD will support joint strategic research projects for a period of 3 to 5 years covering direct project costs, e.g. research activities (recurring and non-recurring costs), manpower costs, research training (PhDs and post docs), travel costs, research stays abroad, courses and international conferences (according to national rules).