Back-to-Labs: A 2nd chance to women scientists

MARRIAGE, maternity, and family — the hurdles before aspiring women in a patriarchal society are numerous. Career break is not a pleasing term to be seen in a resume, but things have not hit a dead end for science researchers, as the 'Back-to-Labs' programme tries to support those who had to take at least a year off from their respective fields.

- ASWIN ASOK KUMAR @T'Puram

The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE), which organises this scheme, has produced a startup grant, three awarded patents, four filed patents and several international publications, through its 86 scholars.

Initiated in 2007, the programme began as a 'hand-holding' system of support for women scientists who had to take a break from their research career due to various reasons. The council provides a monthly stipend of ₹60,000 and an annual sum of ₹75,000 to post-doctoral fellows for two years.