The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has invited research proposals under the theme “Microbiome and Their Implications to Human Health and Disease: Therapeutic Potential and Translational Opportunities.”
The initiative aims to move microbiome research beyond descriptive and association-based studies towards functional and translational applications, including probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics and next-generation biotherapeutics.
Eligible Research submit their proposals online by 15 October 2026.
Explore more Call for Proposals
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Agency | Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India |
| Call Theme | Microbiome and Their Implications to Human Health and Disease |
| Focus | Therapeutic Potential and Translational Opportunities |
| Project Duration | Up to 3 years, extendable by 2 years |
| Submission Mode | DBT eProMIS portal |
| Division | Public Health and Nutrition Division |
| Last Date | 15 October 2026 |
Focus Areas
The DBT has identified several areas for development of microbiome-based biotherapeutics:
1. Microbiome-Based Interventions
Proposals may focus on the development of:
- Probiotics
- Prebiotics
- Postbiotics
- Synbiotics
- Other microbiome-based interventions
These interventions may target the prevention or treatment of non-communicable diseases, including:
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
- Urinary tract diseases
- Neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders
2. Skin-Related Diseases
The call also supports the development of microbiome-based biotherapeutics targeting skin-related diseases.
3. Mycobiome-Based Therapeutics
Another focus area is the development of mycobiome (fungal microbiome)-based biotherapeutics targeting fungal diseases.
4. Microbiome-Based Biomarkers
Proposals can also address the development of microbiome-based biomarkers for:
- Disease prediction
- Early diagnosis
- Risk stratification
Who can Apply?
Proposals are invited from Investigators from the recognized Academic Institutions, Universities/Colleges, National Laboratories, Medical Institutions and Research Organizations recognized by DSIR.
The investigator must hold a regular position in the institution.