What Grant Reviewers Look For in the Instrumentation Section
Research grant proposals live or die on the methodology section. Reviewers assess whether the proposed experiments are feasible with the available infrastructure.
- Named facility with documented instrument specifications (model, manufacturer, resolution, capability)
- Evidence of access: is the facility open to external users? What are the terms?
- Turnaround compatibility: can the facility deliver results within the project timeline?
- Budget alignment: are testing costs included in the proposed budget with realistic estimates?
MNRDC in a Grant Proposal
When writing the instrumentation section of a DST, SERB, CSIR, or ISRO proposal, the following MNRDC specifications can be cited:
- SEM: Hitachi SU3800 with EDS and Sputter Coater (Japan, 2024). Resolution: 3-4 nm. Samples analysed: 897+. Output: 8 images + 2 EDS spectra per sample. Turnaround: 10 working days.
- XRD: Bruker D6 PHASER (Germany, 2024). CuK-alpha source. LYNXEYE XE-P PSD. ICDD PDF-4 database. TOPAS Rietveld. Samples: 600+. Turnaround: 10 working days.
- AFM: Nanosurf Core AFM (Switzerland, 2024). Tapping mode. MountainsSPIP. 50+ ISO roughness parameters. Samples: 145+. Turnaround: 10 working days.
- Additional instruments: Pin-on-Disc (ASTM G99), LCR Meter (1 mHz-5 MHz, 1200C), Sputtering Auto 500, CNC Micro Machine, Stir Casting, Compression Molding, DSC, STA.
MNRDC's Own Grant-Winning Track Record
- ISRO: Development and Characterisation of Processed Shape Memory Alloy Components for Space Applications
- CSIR: Design and Development of Metamaterial-Based Massive MIMO Antenna Using Machine Learning Beyond 5G Applications
- Royal Academy of Engineering, UK: Advancing Green Hydrogen Production Through Electrolysis (Rs 65,000 grant, collaboration with University of Surrey UK and Linde Engineering India.
FAQ
Can faculty from other universities reference MNRDC in DST/SERB proposals?
Yes. MNRDC is open to external academic users with published pricing, documented turnaround (10 days), and named instrument specifications.
Does MNRDC help write grant proposals?
MNRDC provides consultancy support for the methodology and instrumentation sections of research proposals.
