Syngene International Ltd., an integrated research, development, and manufacturing services company, in partnership with the Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH) and Biocon Foundation, announced the launch of the third cohort of its flagship scholarship, mentoring, and industry orientation program for women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Designed to empower women from tier-two and tier-three institutions, the program offers mentorship, financial support, and hands-on research experience, including work in real lab environments. Over the past two years, the program has become a strong career launchpad, benefiting over 50 women.

This year, 40 women students are participating, selected through a rigorous process evaluating academic merit, research interest, and socio-economic background, with a focus on students from low-income or underserved families. Their journey will conclude with project-based internships at pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies across India, and at premier research institutions like the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR–CCMB). These internships are part of a larger development plan that includes technical seminars and industry visits to build research skills, expand networks, and inspire long-term careers in STEM.

Despite growing awareness about STEM careers, many women from smaller cities in India still face challenges like limited exposure, financial constraints, and lack of mentors. The Syngene–RICH program addresses these by offering scholarships, personalised mentoring, and practical research exposure, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world opportunities.

Pramuch Goel, Head of Corporate Affairs, Syngene International Limited, said, “As an innovation-led company, Syngene sees this program as an investment in India’s scientific future. Beyond individual development, it helps build a stronger, more inclusive research ecosystem by supporting talent from institutions with limited access to infrastructure or networks. This aligns with our broader goal of strengthening scientific capacity and driving meaningful industry-wide change.”

At the launch of this cohort, attendees included Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary, Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, Government of India; Dr. Shailja Donempudi, Distinguished Scientist and Head of the Business Development Group at CSIR; Ms. Rashmi Pimpale, CEO, RICH; and Dr. Anupama Shetty, Mission Director, Biocon Foundation.

Launched in 2022 with 21 students, the program has steadily expanded in scale and impact. The second cohort added features like biotech industry visits and a national roundtable on Women in STEM. Many students have moved on to PhD programs, secured full-time research roles, or extended their internships, proving the program’s impact in shaping careers in research.