MSc in 'Bioinformatics & Applied Biotechnology':

The degree will be awarded by the University of Mysore, Mysore.

Formal notification from the University of Mysore is expected shortly. The details on this page are tentative but likely to be confirmed.

Eligibility: Bachelors Degree in any branch of Science/Technology, related to life-science programmes

Eligibility	Admission	Fees
Facilities	Future opportunities	Course Details
Entrance Test & Interview	Application Form: Online / Word / PDF	Important Dates

Press: A software engineer returning to biology via IBAB's MSc program (Times of India, 23 April 2012). Click here for story.

Scholarships: Waiver of complete academic fees for 3 selected candidates. Waiver of half the academic fees for 3 selected candidates.

Poster:MSc 2013 admission poster

Strengths of IBAB

• IBAB is a ‘Centre of Excellence in research and training in bioinformatics' of the Department of Electronics and Information Technology, Govt. of India.
  
• More than 95% students placed from all batches of the earlier diploma programs. Student-wise placement records available on the institute website.
  
• State-of-the-art facilities for both bioinformatics and biotechnology. Applicants are encouraged to look at the video link on the website or visit the institute to see the facilities.
  
• Faculty involved in advanced research topics. See website for publications.

Strengths of programme: novel syllabus

• Advanced topics in computational genomics, microarray data analysis, biostatistics, macromolecular modeling , etc.
  
• IT training for modern biology by software professionals in C/C++, Java, PERL, MySQL, R package etc.
  
• Extensive hands-on in silico and biotech lab training.
  
• Opportunities for students to work on live research projects.
  
• Excellent faculty for mentoring.
  
• External experts, from elite institutions, to teach certain specialized topics.
  
• Students with diverse backgrounds perfectly capable of handling this course and provide perfect platform for cross-disciplinary interactions. No prior expertise required in any of these areas. Every topic taught from the basics.
  
• 12 batches of students with diverse backgrounds have profitably undergone training

Also note

• IBAB is situated on a 20-acre campus, with hostel and dining facilities, in Bangalore.
  
• More than ten years of teaching and research; grand success of 2 diploma programmes, several short courses and MSc program.
  
• GANIT Labs: A new facility for R&D, Training and Servicing in Next Generation Sequencing at IBAB.
  
• Links with premier research institutes and companies in India and abroad, for guest faculty and research collaborations.
  
• IBAB also promotes entrepreneurship and incubates companies.
  

Brief Outline

The institute offers an MSc in 'Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology'.  The course will provide competence in both biotechnology and computational biology/bioinformatics by providing training in the areas of cell and molecular biology, computer science, statistics, bioinformatics and so on (syllabus available below).

IBAB ran Postgraduate Diplomas from 2002-2011. Those popular programmes have been discontinued to enable the faculty to focus on the MSc programme. The institute initiated its 2-year MSc programme in 2011 under IGNOU. It has shifted to University of Mysore for affiliation of its MSc programme from 2013.

Every student is provided access to a fully loaded high-end PC and extensive access to the internet for the entire duration of 2 years. Lectures are delivered by in-house faculty, distinguished academics and industry scientists from leading institutions/companies within the country or from abroad. A significant amount of time is devoted to learning through material available on-line, journals, seminars, tutorials, group discussions etc. Thus the extensive lecture/tutorial program is supplemented by an enabling environment and associated self-learning through assignments and project work.

The 2 year MSc course is structured into 4 semesters, as below.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING ADMISSIONS

Online application available from:	09 May 2013
Last date for online application:	16 June 2013
Online entrance test:	02-04 July 2013
Date of Interview:	15-19 July 2013
Joining date:	10 August 2013

SEMESTER SCHEDULE
(This is an approximate schedule. Except for the joining date, the semester dates are not finalized.)

	Semester starts	Semester ends	Vacation
Semester I	12 Aug. 2013	6 Jan 2014	7 Jan to 22 Jan 2014
Semester II	23 Jan. 2014	29 June 2014	30 Jun to 15 Aug 2014
Semester III	16 Aug. 2014	4 Jan 2015	5 Jan to 20 Jan 2015
Semester IV	21 Jan. 2015	28 June 2015	-

ADMISSION PROCEDURE

1. Application processing fees (non-refundable)
            Rs. 500/- for students from India and non-industrialized countries
            Rs. 1000/- for NRI/Foreign students from industrialized countries

A Demand Draft for the above mentioned amount in favour of 'Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied  Biotechnology' payable at Bangalore needs to be sent to the institute (please see next section for other documents that also have to be submitted).

2. Application form

Fill up all details on-line and seprately send DD, 2 passport size photos and photocopies of marksheets to IBAB by post/courier. 

The application form will be processed only on receipt of the DD.

3. List of necessary documents
            Regular candidates:
                        Photocopies of all certificates/marksheets
            NRI/Foreign candidates:
                        Photocopies of all certificates/marksheets
                        Proof of NRI/Foreign status (stamped page from passport)

DO NOT send any original certificates/marksheets.

4. Important information:
           a. Date of online test: 02-04 July 2013

            b. Date of Interview: You will be given a date between  15-19 July 2013.  In case you have a problem with your allotted date, write to msc2013@ibab.ac.in or info@ibab.ac.in, or call 080-285 289 00 or 01,  9611 872 946 between Monday and Friday from 10:00am to 5:30pm.

            c. If a seat is offered, the last date for accepting it is 5 days after being intimated. At this time a token sum of Rs. 20,000/- (adjustable against the fees due at the time of joining) has to be paid to the institute.

            d. Course commences: 10 August 2013.

5. Eligibility for the course

            a. Bachelors Degree in any branch of Science/Technology, related to life-science programmes

            b. Students awaiting their results can also apply, provided their average percentage of previous semesters/years is at least 55%.

            c. There is no age limit.

Fees

Application processing fees (non-refundable):
1. Application processing fees (non-refundable):
            Rs. 500/- for students from India or non-industrialized countries
            Rs. 1000/- for NRI/Foreign students from industrialized countries

A DD for the above mentioned amount in favour of 'Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied  Biotechnology' payable at Bangalore, should be sent to IBAB by post/courier or submitted in person after filling up the form online. Please note the other documents that also have to be submitted (2 passport photos and photocopies of marksheets) .

2. Course fees per semester:
For Indian students and students from non-industrialized countries.
Academic fees: Rs. 50,000/- per semester.  This includes tuition fees, laboratory fees, software fees and library fees.  This has to be paid within a week of the joining date for each semester.  In addition, there is a security deposit of Rs. 20,000/- (refundable only on completion of the course) to be paid upon joining.

Please download the details and schedule of payment of course fees and hostel fees.

Scholarships at the time of joining:
Waiver of complete academic fees for 3 selected candidates. Waiver of half the academic fees for 3 selected candidates.

For NRI/Foreign students from industrialized countries
Academic fees: Rs. 75,000/- per semester.  This includes tuition fees, laboratory fees, software fees and library fees.  This has to be paid within a week of the joining date for each semester.  In addition, there is a security deposit of Rs. 30,000/- (refundable only on completion of the course) to be paid upon joining.

Please download the details and schedule of payment of course fees and hostel fees.

Contact for further queries (between 10:00am and 5:30pm, Mon-Sat): 080 - 285 289 00/01/02.
Mobile: 9611 872 946

You can also send an email to msc2013@ibab.ac.in or info@ibab.ac.in.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE
Duration

SEMESTER SCHEDULE
(This is an approximate schedule. Except for the joining date, the semester dates are not finalized.)

	Semester starts	Semester ends	Vacation
Semester I	12 Aug. 2013	6 Jan 2014	7 Jan to 22 Jan 2014
Semester II	23 Jan. 2014	29 June 2014	30 Jun to 15 Aug 2014
Semester III	16 Aug. 2014	4 Jan 2015	5 Jan to 20 Jan 2015
Semester IV	21 Jan. 2015	28 June 2015	-

Syllabus
The syllabus is liable to change over time. Please download the current syllabus from here.

FAQ's

Eligibility	Admission	Fees
Facilities	Future opportunities	Course Details
Entrance Test	Application Form: Online / Word / PDF	Important Dates

Eligibility

Q. Who is eligible for this course?
Bachelors Degree in any branch of Science/Technology, related to life-science programmes

Students awaiting their results can also apply, provided their average percentage of previous semesters/years is at least 55%.

Please contact IBAB if you have any doubts about your eligibility.

Q. I have finished my graduation a few years ago. Am I eligible for the IBAB course?
Yes, but a short write up on your activities since then will be requested at the time of the interview.

Q. Is there an age limit for the course?
No, there is no age limit for the course.
 
Q. Although I am eligible I am currently enrolled in another course which will not be over by the time the IBAB course commences. Will I be permitted to join?
It is essential that you join the course as a full time student on the reporting date (10 August 2013). The course load is heavy, and it is necessary that students be present from the first day, when the teaching of basics commences.

Q. Is proficiency in computers and knowledge of biology a must?
Neither is essential and most students lack one or both when they join the institute.  However familiarity would be an advantage.

Q. What is the procedure of selection?
There will be an online test (see below for details), which you can take from your town/city. Candidates short-listed from this test will be called for an interview at IBAB.

Q. What is the nature of the online test?
The online test can be taken by all applicants from anywhere with a good computer and a decent internet connection. A trial test will be organized to facilitate the applicants familiarity with test system and computer specifications.

Q. Is the IBAB interview mandatory?
Yes, the interview is mandatory.

Q. What type of questions will be asked in the test and interview?
The test questions will be objective type and cover basic science (10+2 level) subjects, English comprehension and aptitude. The interview will be based on the candidate's previous course(s)/projects and related fundamental concepts. Please note that not everyone will be able to answer all questions. Since the applicants are from diverse backgrounds, there will be questions from various subjects. You can answer what you know. There will be no negative marks.

Q. How will I know my interview results?
The interview results will be announced a few days after the interviews are completed.
The list of successful candidates will be posted on the website and letters/e-mails will also be sent to those who have been offered admission.

Admission Procedure

Q. How do I get the application form?
Please fill up the application form online or Download Word/PDF . Separately send a DD for Rs. 500/- (for Indian candidates or those from non-industrialized countries) or Rs. 1000/- (from NRI/foreign candidates from industrialized countries) towards the application processing fees favouring 'Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology', payable at Bangalore.

Q. I am an NRI candidate interested in enrolling in the MSc course at IBAB. What is the fee structure and admission procedure for me?

The application form fees for the NRI candidates is Rs. 1,000/-.
Such applicants must submit their resume and proof of their NRI status along with the application form by the date intimated during each year's admission process and must meet the minimum academic criteria.
 
If they are short-listed from amongst the NRI applicants they will be required to appear for an interview before their admission is confirmed.
 
Academic fees: Rs. 75,000/- per semester.  This includes tuition fees, laboratory fees, software fees and library fees.  This has to be paid within a week of the joining date for each semester.  There is a security deposit of Rs. 30,000/- (refundable only on completion of the course) to be paid upon joining.

Please download the details and schedule of payment of course fees and hostel fees.

Q. I am a foreign student from an industrialized country.  What is the fee structure and admission procedure for me?

Please see details for NRI candidates.  The same rules apply to foreign students from industrialized countries.

Q. I am a foreign student from a non-industrialized country.  What is the fee structure and admission procedure for me?

Please see details for regular Indian candidates.  The same rules apply to foreign students from non-industrialized countries.

Fees

Q. What is the fee structure? Can I pay fees in installments?
 
For students from India or non-industrialized countries

Academic fees: Rs. 50,000/- per semester.  This includes tuition fees, laboratory fees, software fees and library fees.  This has to be paid within a week of the joining date for each semester.  There is a security deposit of Rs. 20,000/- (refundable only on completion of the course) to be paid upon joining.

Please download the details and schedule of payment of course fees and hostel fees.

Scholarships at the time of joining:
Waiver of complete academic fees for 3 selected candidates. Waiver of half the academic fees for 3 selected candidates.

For NRI/Foreign students from industrialized countries
Academic fees: Rs. 75,000/- per semester.  This includes tuition fees, laboratory fees, software fees and library fees.  This has to be paid within a week of the joining date for each semester.  There is a security deposit of Rs. 30,000/- (refundable only on completion of the course) to be paid upon joining.

Please download the details and schedule of payment of course fees and hostel fees.

Q. If I wish to discontinue the course in between, will I get a refund of my course fee?
In case a student discontinues mid-way neither the tuition fee already paid nor the security deposit will be refunded.

Q. Are there any scholarships or tuition fee waivers?
There are cash awards given to students who perform well in the course. Also, partial waiver of fees through scholarships in case of a few deserving students may be feasible.

Q. Do you assist us in getting bank educational loan?
IBAB will give you all the necessary documents required for getting an educational loan.

Entrance Test:

The online entrance test (02-04 July 2013)  can be taken from any place with a good computer and internet connection. Candidates performing better in the entrance test will be called for interview. The test will be of 'multiple-choice questions' and will cover 10+2 basic sciences (click here for a sample question paper). You will be given an opportunity to take a trial test with sample questions.

  You have to first submit online application form and email your name and application number to shodhaka@ibab.ac.in and msc2013@ibab.ac.in / info@ibab.ac.in.

 Interviews:

The interview (15-19 July 2013) will be at IBAB, Bengaluru. The purpose of the interview is to mainly test the knowledge of the candidates in the areas he/she has studied so far, particularly in any specific area of his/her interest. If you anticipate any difficulties, such as the dates of entrance test and interview, please write to info@ibab.ac.in

Facilities
Q. Does IBAB provide hostel/food facilities?
IBAB has its own hostel. The rent will have to be paid in advance, together with the tuition fees, at the beginning of the semester.

The Institute also has a dining hall. The fees for these facilities have to be paid separately by those who avail of them. All hostel residents have to compulsarily be a member of the dining hall. Day scholars may also avail the dining facilities.

Please download the details and schedule of payment of course fees and hostel fees.

Q. Is separate accommodation available for married students?
Currently there is no such facility.

Future opportunities

Q. What are the future opportunities for IBAB graduates?
IBAB students are employed in leading companies across the country. An indicative list is available under PLACEMENTS (see below).  Students passing out also have the option of pursuing further studies in the areas of bioinformatics/biotechnology.  Many IBAB students have registered for a Ph.D. in universities in India, the US, Germany, France, Finland etc.

Q. Does IBAB offer placements to the students? What is the rate of placements?

The placement rate of IBAB students for its past programmes has been 90+% over several batches of students who have completed the course. Details are available elsewhere on this site.

The institute is currently in the process of placing its first batch of MSc students.

Q. What are the salaries drawn by the students?
Salaries drawn by students taking up jobs with the companies are on par with the industry standards. Students with prior working experience may start higher. There is company-to-company variation.

Students wanting to continue in academics may get a stipend depending on the rules of the institution they join.

Q. Is the course recognised?
The MSc course offered by the Institute is recognized by the University of Mysore.  Also, industry has shown its acceptance of the courses offered by IBAB by regularly coming for campus interviews and offering jobs to IBAB students.

Important information

Online application available from:	09 May 2013
Last date for online application:	16 June 2013
Online entrance test:	02-04 July 2013
Date of Interview:	15-19 July 2013
Joining date:	10 August 2013

PLACEMENTS

The first batch of students for the Msc in Bioinformatics and Biotechnology have joined in August 2011.  Their placements are currently going on.

Our previous batches of (Diploma) students have been placed for their internships/jobs in the companies/institutes mentioned below (an indicative list). Individual placements are listed against each student's name under Students' Profile for all IBAB alumni. Please go here for further details (click on any batch to see each student's placement).

Accelrys (Bangalore)
Accenture (Chennai)
AstraZeneca (Bangalore)
Aurigene Technologies (Bangalore)
Biobase (Bangalore)
Biocon (Bangalore)
Brickwork India (Bangalore)
Carl Zeiss India (Bangalore)
Connexios (Bangalore)
Eppendorf (Chennai)
Gangagen Biotechnologies (Bangalore)
GlaxoSmithKline (Bangalore)
GSK-BDSI (Bangalore)
Infosys Technologies (Bangalore)
IBM (Bangalore)
Indegene Life Sciences (Delhi)
Invenio Biosolutions (Delhi)
Jubilant Biosys (Bangalore)
L & T (Mysore)
Metahelix Life Sciences (Bangalore)
Medico Labs (Hamilton, NJ, USA)
Millipore (Hyderabad)
Molecular Connections (Bangalore)
Mphasis (Bangalore)
National Innovation Foundation (Ahmedabad)
Novartis (Hyderabad)
Ocimum Biosolutions (Hyderabad)
Philips India Ltd (Bangalore)
Quintiles (Bangalore)
ReaMetrix (Bangalore)
Siri Techonologies (Bangalore)
Karnataka Milk Federation (Bangalore)
Strand Genomics (Bangalore)
Symphony Services (Bangalore)
TCS (Hyderabad)
Techno Concepts (Delhi)
Tooltech Software (Pune)

Click here to know about IBAB alumni who are pursuing Ph.D in India or abroad.

MEDALS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

At the time of joining:
Waiver of complete academic fees for 3 selected candidates. Waiver of half the academic fees for 3 selected candidates.

Various awards are made at each convocation. The following scholarships and medals were awarded at the last convocation, on 20 April 2013.

The Chief Minister's Award for best student
The AstraZeneca Research Foundation Award
The Poornima Chaudhury Scholarship
The Poornima Chaudhury Award
The Nabanita Ghosh Internship Award
The Millipore Award
The Accelrys Award
The Strand Life Sciences Award
The Merck Award
The Merck Scholarship
The Sudha Murty Commendation

Queries by non-MSc candidates

Q. Does IBAB have openings for internships and projects for individuals from other institutes?
This is variable, and should be ascertained by writing to info@ibab.ac.in

Q. Are there any correspondence courses?
IBAB does not offer any correspondence courses.

Q. Are any short term courses conducted?
Yes, please visit our website regularly for an update on short term courses and corporate education which is sometimes open to students.