SAIF, Panjab University, Boosts Research Infrastructure with Rs 4.84 Crore DST Grant

Chandigarh, August 1, 2024: The Sophisticated Analytical Instrumentation Facility (SAIF) at Panjab University, Chandigarh, has been awarded a grant of Rs 4.84 crores by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). This funding will enable the acquisition of a state-of-the-art Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) and Raman Spectrometer, further enhancing the facility's capacity to support cutting-edge scientific research and innovation.

Under the dynamic leadership of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Renu Vig, SAIF has received substantial funding of Rupees 11.34 Crores for the procurement of key instruments including X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffractometer, AFM and Raman spectrometer. Professor G.R. Chaudhary, Director of SAIF, emphasized the importance of this grant, stating that the addition of these advanced instruments will enhance our ability to serve researchers nationwide, providing them with the necessary tools to conduct pioneering research. This investment underscores our commitment to leading analytical services. Recently new installed facilities viz. Spectroscopic Ellipsometer, UV-VIS-NIR and Fluorescence Spectrometer have also been inaugurated at SAIF PUC.

SAIF, a key analytical instrumentation center in India, works in unison with the Central Instrumentation Laboratory (CIL) to provide high-quality analytical services and training to researchers and students across the country. Together, they house 27 advanced instruments and have been pivotal in analyzing over 1.5 lakh samples for more than 29,000 users from various states. This has made the facility the top-performing center among the SAIF centers in India for the past several years.

The new AFM and Raman Spectrometer will significantly expand the facility's capabilities, supporting a wide range of scientific disciplines, including nanotechnology, materials science, life sciences, and environmental science. The AFM will offer high-resolution imaging and mechanical property mapping, while the Raman Spectrometer will provide exceptional spatial resolution for studying molecular-level phenomena. These instruments are crucial for developing new materials, catalysts, and drug delivery systems.

SAIF and CIL actively organize hands-on training sessions and awareness programs to promote the use of advanced analytical techniques. In addition, the center offers postgraduate courses, including M.Tech and MSc in Instrumentation, equipping students with specialized knowledge and practical skills.