The Extra Mural Project Cell (EMPC) at iBRIC-inStem plays a pivotal role in managing and facilitating external research funding for projects that align with our research objectives in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. The cell serves as a bridge between external funding agencies, collaborators, and iBRIC-inStem’s research teams, ensuring smooth project execution, compliance, and effective use of resources.
Sponsored Research
Extramural funding is a cornerstone of our research efforts, and our faculty are actively encouraged to seek such funding opportunities. Research at iBRIC-inStem is supported by numerous sources, including government agencies such as DBT, DST, ANRF, ICMR-DHR, DBT-WT India Alliance, and EMBO, as well as international organizations like HFSP and BMGF. In addition, corporate sponsors, including Artus Therapeutics Inc. and Genentech Inc., alongside philanthropic entities like the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, contribute to specific initiatives.
The EMPC provides comprehensive support to iBRIC-inStem researchers in securing funding from various channels—governmental, international, corporate, charitable, and private sources—and ensures the effective management of grants and awards. iBRIC-inStem is envisioned as India’s leading centre for stem cell research and application, with a growing global presence in the field of stem cell biology. As we work to translate the benefits of stem cells into tangible outcomes for society, particularly in regenerative medicine, we are also deeply committed to social outreach. To realize these goals, a balanced funding mix of government, private, and philanthropic contributions is essential, enabling us to seize emerging opportunities and expand our reach. We seek broad-minded partners who share our vision of transformative science and who can help us build and sustain a world-class scientific hub in India. To achieve this, the EMPC collaborates with campus researchers, external individuals, and organizations to identify funding priorities, secure financial support, engage with donors, and cultivate lasting relationships.
Managing Agreements
The EMPC assists researchers in navigating and completing agreements with sponsors, ensuring that all campus requirements are met and legal risks are carefully considered. We manage all stages of the agreement process, from contract discussions and negotiations to e-stamping, signing, and follow-through with external parties and internal teams.
The EMPC provides support for a variety of agreements, including:
- Sponsored Research Agreements (incoming)
- Sponsored Research Agreements (outgoing subcontracts)
- Corporate Research Collaboration Agreements
- Philanthropic Donation Agreements
- MOUs with Financial Obligations
- Consultancy Agreements
- Amendments to Existing Agreements
Research Collaborations
Researchers at iBRIC-inStem engage in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research in stem cell biology, working across various scientific domains. Our scientists continue to push the boundaries of knowledge through strong national and global collaborations that are built on solid intellectual foundations. These collaborations enhance resource-sharing, maximizing research impact and global relevance. The Extra Mural Project Cell (EMPC) supports the establishment and management of both national and international collaborations, assisting with grant applications, collaborative agreements, and facilitating visits by potential collaborators.
Key Functions
- Research Project Proposal Management
Assist with the submission of research project proposals to funding agencies, and provide continuous support until the completion and closure of the project. - Submission of Utilization Certificates (UC) and Statement of Expenditure (SE)
Coordinate with the Finance & Accounts (F&A) department for the timely submission of utilization certificates and financial statements to funding agencies. - Project Documentation Management
Maintain comprehensive documentation for each project, ensuring accurate records of all project-related activities. - Management of Agreements for Extramural Projects and Research Collaborations
Manage all stages of the agreement process, from contract discussions and negotiations to follow-through with external parties and internal teams. - Personnel Appointments and administrative formalities
Oversee the recruitment and appointment of project personnel, including Postdoctoral Researchers, Project Associates, and Assistants, for Extra Mural Projects. Manage administrative tasks related to project staff, including travel approvals. - Equipment purchase on EMG
Ensure timely purchase of equipment on Extramural grants, verify assets procured on EMG and facilitate the transfer of project-acquired equipment to the inStem Stores upin completion of tenure of the PI - E-Office Processing
Efficiently manage project documentation through the E-Office system to ensure seamless communication and record-keeping.
Resources
Funding Database: https://www.bliscrdo.com/funding-database
Funding Resources: https://www.bliscrdo.com/funding-resources
Grant Writing Tools: https://www.bliscrdo.com/grant-writing-tools
EMPC Team

Dr. Vineetha Raghavan
Coordinator, EMPC (Scientist D)
Email: rvineetha@instem.res.in
Phone: +91 80 6494 8225

Ms. Supriya R
(Administrative Assistant)
Email: supriyar@ext.instem.res.in

Ms Sunitha R
(Section Officer, EMPC and Establishment)
Email: sunithar@instem.res.in
Phone: +91 80 64948226