MSU Biochemistry Department Honors Founder with Bio-Business Seminar
The biochemistry department at Maharaj Sayajirao University in Vadodara recently commemorated the birth centenary of its founding head, Professor C V Ramakrishnan, with a significant one-day seminar. The event, titled 'Biochemistry for Bio-Business', focused on bridging the gap between academic research and commercial applications in the biochemical field.
Nobel Laureate's Silent Presence and Alumni Contributions
Nobel laureate Dr Venkatraman 'Venky' Ramakrishnan, the son of Prof CVR, made a quiet visit to the seminar. He was present as the department gathered distinguished alumni who have successfully transformed academic research into viable commercial ventures. Dr Venky praised the department for maintaining high-quality research while evolving to meet modern demands.
University Leadership and New Initiatives
MSU vice-chancellor Prof Bhalchandra Bhanage connected the seminar's theme to India's growing startup ecosystem. He announced the establishment of a CVR Chair at the Faculty of Science, aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in biochemistry.
Shifting Focus from Research to Industry
Department head Prof Pushpa Robin explained the rationale behind moving away from traditional research-focused seminars. She cited decreasing global research funding and India's reliance on imported biochemical products for health and wellness as key drivers. Prof Robin emphasized the urgent need for academia to collaborate with industry and encouraged students to learn from alumni who have excelled in both scientific and economic spheres.
Expert Insights and Entrepreneurial Journeys
The seminar featured a range of speakers sharing their expertise and experiences:
- Prof Krishnakumar Menon from Amrita Institute in Kochi discussed advancements in drug development within neurobiology.
- Dr Divya Lal Saksena detailed her work in peptide synthesis for therapeutic applications.
- Mahendra Dashora, chairman and managing director of Accurex Biomedical, talked about introducing innovative products like urine strip diagnostics to the in-vitro diagnostics market.
- Dr C N Ramchand, a former doctoral student of Prof CVR, shared insights on commercializing research through products such as DNA detection kits.
- Dr Sayantani Pramanik of Pragmatech highlighted initiatives for early cervical cancer detection.
- Dr Jitendra Wagh from Genexis Biotech spoke about developing animal-free protein products that have gained acceptance in international markets.
- Dr Rushita Rane outlined various government policies and schemes available to support aspiring entrepreneurs in the biochemical sector.
Dean Prof Vipul Kalamkar welcomed the attendees, while former department head Prof Sarita Gupta provided a brief overview of Prof CVR's academic legacy. The event underscored the department's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in biochemistry.
