Symposium focused on theme "Unveiling Opportunities: Microbiology Research Ecosystem in Chandigarh region"

Chandigarh, March 22, 2024: Department of Microbiology at Panjab University hosted a one-day symposium focused on the theme "Unveiling Opportunities: Microbiology Research Ecosystem in Chandigarh region". At the onset of the program, Dr. Naveen Gupta, Chairperson of the Department, extended a warm welcome and elaborated on the advances in microbial research and teaching in the Chandigarh region since the establishment of the Department in 1964 at Panjab University. He also gave a brief overview of the department's activities and its commitment to academic excellence and research advancement.

The Chief Guest, Dr. Sanjeev Khosla, Director of CSIR Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTECH), delivered a captivating keynote lecture elaborating on the research facilities and activities at his institute and opportunities in this field in the area. Dr. Jatinder Kaur Arora, Executive Director of the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology, and Dr. Rumina Sethi, Dean of University Instruction at Panjab University, while acting as Guests of Honour, deliberated on government schemes to promote research in general, and especially with respect to women. The event further honored the esteemed former alumna, Senior Professor Dr. Saroj Sharma, with a heartwarming session where department faculty and students shared cherished memories, fostering an atmosphere of joy. This session was coordinated by research scholar  Ekta, Sunena, Richa, Anupama, Kumud, Sarita, Garima and Rahul.

The symposium's second session focused on the interaction between academia and industry. Managing Directors from prominent businesses, Mr. Rakesh Vij of Microwin Labs Mohali and Mr. Vansh Bhandari of Aika Formulation, Jalandhar, provided valuable insights into industry dynamics and opportunities for collaboration. Prof. Prince Sharma, Former Dean of Science, and Prof. S.K. Soni, Former Director of CIPP, coordinated the session. Prof. Harsh Nayyar, Director of the Research and Development Cell, sent his best wishes and all support from his office for startups and other entrepreneurial ventures.

Overall, the symposium served as a platform for knowledge dissemination, networking, and collaboration between academia and industry, equipping students with the tools and insights needed to excel in the dynamic field of Microbiology.