Overview

Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) is a premier autonomous research institution under the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India. Established in 1990, it is located in Tiruvananthapuram, Kerala. RGCB focuses on advanced research in biotechnology and life sciences and operates primarily as a Central Government institute. It does not confer degrees independently but is recognized for its contributions to research and doctoral programs in collaboration with universities.

• Type: Central Government Research Institute
• Year Established: 1990
• Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
• Campus: Single campus in Kerala
• Approvals: Recognized by Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology, India
• Official website: https://rgcb.res.in

Quick Facts

• Founder/Director: Dr. D. Jayaprakash (Current Director)
• Student Count: Not available on official sources as of 2024-06-01
• Departments/Faculty: Advanced research groups in biotechnology, molecular biology, bioinformatics, immunology
• Contact: Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thycaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram - 695014, Kerala. Phone: +91-471-2520080, Email: director.rgcb@nic.in
• NAAC/NIRF: Not applicable; RGCB is not a degree-awarding institution
• Ranks: Recognized as a leading institute for biotechnology research by Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India

Courses & Programs

RGCB primarily offers research opportunities and PhD programs in collaboration with universities such as University of Kerala. It conducts advanced research in the following areas:

• Molecular Biology & Genetics
• Biotechnology & Bioinformatics
• Immunology & Infectious Diseases
• Environmental Biotechnology

Programs:

• PhD (in collaboration with universities)
• Postdoctoral Fellowships & Research Training

Regular mode only; no UG/PG/distance courses.

Admissions

Admissions for PhD programs are through the collaborating universities, primarily University of Kerala and others. Candidates must meet research eligibility and appear for university-level entrance exams or interviews.

• Mode: Entrance exam + Interview (university-specific)
• Accepted Exams: University research entrance tests (e.g., UGC NET, JRF)
• Typical Timeline: Applications usually invited once a year based on university notifications
• Application: Apply through respective universities partnering with RGCB
• Admission details: https://rgcb.res.in/research

Eligibility

• PhD Program: Master’s degree in Life Sciences/Biotechnology/Biochemistry or related fields
• Minimum marks: Usually minimum 55% or equivalent as per university norms
• Age limits and other conditions as per affiliating university rules
• Documents: Academic transcripts, entrance exam score, research proposal, identity proof

Fee & Scholarships

• Fees: Not applicable directly; fees governed by affiliating universities
• Scholarships: DBT-JRF/NET fellowships, UGC scholarships, state government scholarships for SC/ST/OBC/EWS categories
• Details available on university portals and DBT official scholarship pages

Placements

As a research center, RGCB does not have traditional placements. Many PhD scholars and postdoctoral researchers transition into academia, industry, or government research roles nationally and internationally.

• Internships & research projects available for students through DBT and institute projects
• Collaboration with biotech firms and research organizations for training
• No centralized placement cell

Campus & Facilities

• Hostels: Not available on campus; onus on students
• Well-equipped research labs with advanced biotechnology instruments
• Modern library with biotechnology and life sciences journals
• Wi-Fi enabled campus
• Healthcare support and canteen facilities
• Sports and recreation facilities limited; local city facilities accessible
• Collaborative meeting rooms and seminar halls

Faculty & Research

• Renowned faculty scientists with national/international recognition
• Major research centers include Molecular Medicine, Infectious Diseases, and Functional Genomics
• Research grants from DBT, DST, CSIR, and international agencies
• Multiple patents filed in biotechnology innovations
• MoUs with national universities and global biotech institutes for research collaboration

Rankings

• NIRF: Not ranked as it is a research institute, not a university or college
• NAAC: Not applicable
• Recognized as one of the top biotechnology research centers by Government of India

Results, Cut-Offs & Seat Matrix

Not applicable. Research programs admit students via university entrance criteria.

How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (Thiruvananthapuram)
• Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Central Railway Station (~9 km)
• Local transit: City buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws available
• Institute location: Thycaud P.O., centrally accessible within Thiruvananthapuram city

FAQs

1. Q: Does RGCB offer undergraduate or postgraduate degrees?
   A: RGCB primarily conducts research and offers PhD programs in collaboration with universities; no direct UG/PG degree courses.
2. Q: How do I apply for research programs at RGCB?
   A: Applications are made via affiliating universities; candidates must meet entrance and interview criteria.
3. Q: Is hostel facility available on campus?
   A: RGCB does not have on-campus hostels; students arrange accommodation off-campus.
4. Q: What scholarships are available for research students?
   A: Scholarships from DBT, UGC, and state government are available for eligible candidates.
5. Q: Does RGCB have campus placement?
   A: No formal placement cell; research scholars often join academia or industry through their networks.
6. Q: What is the eligibility for PhD admission?
   A: Master’s degree in relevant fields with minimum marks as per university rules and qualifying entrance exams.
7. Q: Are online courses available?
   A: RGCB primarily offers regular, on-campus research training; no dedicated online degree courses.
8. Q: How can I contact RGCB for admission queries?
   A: Email director.rgcb@nic.in or call +91-471-2520080 for official information.