WISER 2026 at Indo-German Science & Technology Centre (IGSTC) | Apply Now
The Indo-German Science & Technology Centre (IGSTC) is officially inviting proposals for the Women Involvement in Science and Engineering Research (WISER) program for 2026. This prestigious research opportunity is a bilateral initiative between the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, and the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), Germany. The WISER program is specifically designed to build scientific capacity and promote women in science by fostering lasting research partnerships between India and Germany. By utilizing complementary expertise in STEM fields, this grant aims to retain and encourage women researchers to lead high-impact innovation projects in a unique “paired mode” collaboration.
About The Organisation
The Indo-German Science & Technology Centre (IGSTC) is a premier bilateral organization established through a high-level partnership between the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, and the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), Government of Germany. It acts as a high-octane bridge for innovation, specifically designed to facilitate research partnerships that leverage the complementary expertise of both nations in the fields of Science, Technology, and Engineering.
Women Involvement in Science and Engineering Research (WISER)
The “Paired Mode” Research Model
A defining feature of the WISER program is its collaborative structure. Proposals are not submitted individually but through a collaborating pair.
- The Pair: Consists of two women Principal Investigators (PIs)—one based in India and one based in Germany.
- Matchmaking: Applicants are responsible for finding their own partner. To facilitate this, IGSTC provides the B2Matchmaking tool, a 1:1 networking platform that introduces potential applicants to counterparts with matching research interests.
- Duration: The grant supports the project for a tenure of up to 3 years (24 to 36 months).
Eligibility & Requirements
To apply for this women in science initiative, researchers must meet the following criteria:
- Employment: Women holding a regular or long-term research position in academia, research institutes, or industry.
- Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in their respective field.
- Contract Validity: Must have an active employment contract or fellowship valid for more than 4 years from the application deadline.
- Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for this program.
- Institutional Support: The host institution must have an established R&D setup and the ability to manage research grant funds.
Financial Assistance & Benefits
The WISER grant provides comprehensive support for both the research project and international mobility.
- Project Funding: Covers basic requirements including research staff, minor equipment, consumables, overheads, and contingency.
- Funding Caps:
- Indian PI: Up to ₹39 lakhs for three years.
- German PI: Up to €48,000 for three years.
- International Mobility: The grant includes one visit per year to the partner’s country for a stay of up to 1 month.
- Travel Support: Covers a single round-trip airfare, visa fees, medical insurance, and a per diem allowance for the stay.
Application Timeline & Process
Submissions are only accepted through the online portal jointly by both members of the pair.
- Application Window: 1st February 2026 to 31st March 2026.
- Mode of Submission: Online via the official “Application Portal.”
- Documentation: Applicants are encouraged to review the Basic Guidelines and FAQs on the IGSTC website before submitting their joint proposal.
The WISER program represents a significant research opportunity for women looking to lead international STEM innovations. By combining the strengths of Indian and German research ecosystems, this grant not only funds your project but builds a sustainable network of women in science. Ensure your joint application is submitted by March 31, 2026, to secure your role in this prestigious bilateral exchange.
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