Call for Proposals: Microbiome and Their Implications to Human Health and Disease

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, invites proposals for the development of microbiome-based biotherapeutics. This initiative focuses on translating established microbiome discoveries into therapeutic products. The deadline for proposal submission is 15 October 2026. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India

- Opportunity Type: Research and Development Grant

- Funding and Benefits: Support for project costs including manpower, consumables, and equipment

- Eligible Applicants: Recognized academic institutions, universities, national laboratories, medical institutions, and research organizations in India

- Eligible Countries: India

- Deadline: 15 October 2026

- Project Duration: Up to 3 years, extendable by 2 additional years

About the Opportunity

This call for proposals aims to strengthen India’s capacity to develop innovative microbiome-based solutions for non-communicable and lifestyle diseases. The focus is on advancing microbiome-based interventions and next-generation biotherapeutics with a clear pathway to clinical and public health applications. Funding and Benefits

- Financial Support: Grants cover equipment, manpower, consumables, contingencies, and domestic travel as per DBT guidelines.

- Project Duration: Initial support for up to 3 years, with a possible extension of 2 years based on research outcomes.

Who Is Eligible? - Investigators must hold a regular position in a recognized academic or scientific institution in India. - Proposals must adhere to statutory regulatory requirements, including necessary approvals for studies involving human or animal subjects. - Each investigator can submit only one proposal, and proposals must clearly define the role of each collaborator. Eligible Activities or Priority Areas - Development of microbiome-based interventions for non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, NAFLD, and neurological disorders. - Microbiome-based therapeutics targeting skin and fungal diseases. - Development of microbiome-based biomarkers for disease prediction and diagnosis. Why This Opportunity Matters This initiative addresses the need for a coordinated national program to advance microbiome research in India. By focusing on translational applications, it seeks to harness the rich diversity of India’s microbiome for public health benefits. How to Apply

- Prepare Proposal: Ensure it includes a clear hypothesis, objectives, work plan, and expected outcomes.

- Secure Approvals: Obtain necessary regulatory approvals for studies involving human or animal subjects.

- Submit Electronically: Upload the proposal on the DBT eProMIS portal under the Public Health and Nutrition Division by 15 October 2026.

- Ensure Completeness: Incomplete proposals or those submitted via email will not be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply for this grant? Eligible applicants include recognized academic institutions, universities, national laboratories, medical institutions, and research organizations in India. What is the deadline for submission? The deadline for proposal submission is 15 October 2026. What types of projects are supported? Projects focusing on the translation of existing microbiome discoveries into therapeutic products are supported. How long is the project duration? Projects are supported for up to 3 years, with a possible 2-year extension based on outcomes. Where should proposals be submitted? Proposals must be submitted electronically via the DBT eProMIS portal. Next Steps Eligible applicants are encouraged to review the official guidelines and submit their proposals by the deadline. For further details, contact Dr. Rajesh Ghangal at [contact details removed] or the eProMIS portal administrator for technical assistance.