This joint call by DBT and BIRAC aims to boost high-performance biomanufacturing in India by supporting innovative enzyme research and development. The initiative aligns with the BioE3 Policy, focusing on bioeconomy, environment, and employment, to transform the manufacturing sector towards regenerative and sustainable practices.

Call Overview and Objectives

The primary goal is to establish enzyme biomanufacturing as a viable and sustainable solution by addressing challenges related to high production costs, efficiency, and scalability. This call invites proposals focused on building capabilities and infrastructure in advanced enzyme technology.

The focus is to develop a pipeline of indigenous and affordable enzymes. These enzymes should be applicable in various sectors, including industrial processes and biocatalysis, to meet the growing global demand.

DBT and BIRAC are seeking proposals that contribute to the development of innovative technologies using enzymes. This includes enhancing specificity and efficiency and expanding the range of applications across different sectors.

Scope of Research Areas

This call focuses on specific enzyme categories to drive innovation in biomanufacturing. These include enzymes for the biotransformation of low-cost feedstock into high-value biomolecules.

Also included are biomass hydrolyzing enzymes for efficient conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into fermentable sugars. Additionally, enzymes for biotransformation towards the production of specialty chemicals and APIs for the pharma industry are of interest.

Proposals are invited under two categories: Discovery & Application-oriented Integrated Network Research (TRL 3-5) and Bridging the Gaps for Scale up (TRL 5-7 or above).

Project Requirements and Expected Outcomes

Projects should clearly state the background strain used, its procurement source, and any associated IP. The current and proposed Technology Readiness Level (TRL) must be specified.

Applicants must outline the minimal benchmark (titer/productivity/scale) to be attained for the selected enzyme. A detailed explanation of the technology gaps and proposed strategies to address them is required.

Projects should address the sustainability of the process from an economic and environmental perspective. Scalability of the technology and its commercialization potential should also be highlighted.

Eligibility and Submission Details

Both academia and industry applicants are eligible to apply, either independently or collaboratively. Academic institutions must submit proposals through the DBT's e-ProMIS portal.

• Industry applicants, including startups, must submit proposals via the BIRAC website.

• Companies must have a minimum of 51% Indian shareholding.

Industry applicants need to provide necessary documents, including incorporation certificates, shareholding patterns, and audited financial details. Proposals must adhere to all statutory regulatory requirements.

Funding and Intellectual Property

Projects with only academic partners will be funded by DBT, while those involving industry will be supported by BIRAC. The extent of funding will depend on the proposed activities.

Project duration is initially up to 2 years, with a potential extension to 5 years based on performance. The intellectual property (IP) generated during the project will be managed according to DBT and BIRAC's IP policies.

DBT/BIRAC reserves the right to determine funding and processes as per its standard norms. The selection process is final and not open to review.

Potential Research Topics

Here are some potential research topics relevant to this call:

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Enzyme Discovery

• Advanced Material Science for Enzyme Immobilization

• Synthetic Biology for Enzyme Engineering

• Microbiology and Fermentation Technology for Enzyme Production

• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Novel Enzymes

• Chemical Engineering for Bioreactor Design and Optimization

The last date for submission of proposals is 30th April, 2025. For any queries, contact BioE3-enzymes@dbt.nic.in.