Introduction

The Department of Science & Technology (DST), India, is inviting proposals for its "Advanced Materials" scheme under the National Program for Nano Science and Technology (NPNST). This program aims to support basic and applied research in advanced materials, focusing on developing sustainable solutions for global challenges like climate change and environmental pollution. The scheme encourages proposals that lead to the development of innovative materials with superior properties for various applications.

Scope of Work

The program emphasizes the development of advanced materials that are sustainable, exhibit extraordinary functionalities, and are tailored for specific applications. The research should address one or more of the following thematic areas:

• Affordable and Sustainable Materials Processing: Developing cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods for processing advanced materials.

• Engineered Low Dimensional Materials: Research on low dimensional materials for optical and electronic applications, including their design, synthesis, and characterization.

• Structural Materials for Mobility: Developing advanced materials with enhanced properties for use in transportation and mobility applications.

• Bio-inspired Materials: Exploring bio-inspired materials for sensing and diagnostic applications, drawing inspiration from biological systems.

• High-Performance Materials for Energy Conversion: Research on materials for efficient energy conversion, including solar cells, batteries, and fuel cells.

• Theory/Computational Design of Materials: Utilizing theoretical and computational approaches to design and predict the properties of advanced materials.

Eligibility

The call is open to eminent scientists working in fundamental and technological aspects of science and engineering at national academic and R&D institutions in India.

Budget and Duration

• Maximum Project Cost: Rs. 2 Crore.

• Project Duration: 3 years.

Key Dates

• Call Opening Date: September 1st, 2024

• Call Closing Date: September 30th, 2024

Application Process

• Pre-Proposal Submission: Submit a five-page pre-proposal through the DST online portal: https://onlinedst.gov.in/. Use the prescribed format provided in Annexure-I (not included in the provided text).

• Full Proposal Invitation: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a detailed proposal.

• Proposal Presentation: PIs of selected detailed proposals will be invited to present their proposals to a committee of experts.

• Final Selection: The final selection will be based on the recommendations of the expert committee.

Selection Process

Pre-proposals will be evaluated by an Expert Committee. Detailed proposals will undergo a thorough review, and PIs will present their proposals to the expert committee. The final selection will be based on the committee's recommendations.

Contact Information

• Dr. Karthik Dhandapani

  • Scientist 'C', Nano Mission Division, Department of Science & Technology

  • Phone: 011-26595439

  • Email: karthik.dhandapani@gov.in

Additional Information

• PIs can submit only one proposal during the call.

• Proposals and all relevant documents should be submitted as a single PDF file through the online portal.

• The program encourages research that addresses industry-related problems and has the potential for translational applications.

• The development of materials with incremental improvements in properties and limited sustainability does not fall under the scope of advanced materials.

• The program aims to foster a self-reliant ecosystem in advanced materials research and development in India.

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