Indian Institute of Technology Delhi celebrated Central Research Facility (CRF) Day 2026 on Wednesday, bringing together researchers, industry representatives, funding agencies and technology partners to showcase the institute's scientific infrastructure and research collaborations. The event focused on advanced research facilities and highlighted ongoing work in areas such as biomedical research, nanotechnology, material sciences, environmental testing and medical technology.
Director's Vision for CRF
Speaking at the event, IIT Delhi Director Rangan Banerjee said the aim of the Central Research Facility is to provide access to advanced scientific infrastructure for researchers and students both within IIT Delhi and across the country. He emphasized the role of CRF in enabling cutting-edge research by offering state-of-the-art equipment and expertise.
Technologies Showcased
The Central Research Facility supports research in areas including optical characterisation, imaging, biomedical applications, fabrication and elemental analysis. Some of the technologies showcased during CRF Day included the Cryo Electron Microscope used for capturing high-resolution structures of biomolecules, the Electron Probe Micro Analyzer for analysing metals and semiconductors, and the Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope used to study nanoscale structures and material surfaces. IIT Delhi also highlighted the work of mPragati, a national centre focused on development, manufacturing and testing of medical devices and healthcare technologies.
CRF Head's Remarks
Manidipa Banerjee, Head of CRF at IIT Delhi, said the annual event aims to connect research facilities with academia, industry and government stakeholders. “IIT Delhi hosts one of the largest sophisticated research facilities in the country, spread over the Hauz Khas and Sonipat campuses. CRF Day is our annual event where we bring together representatives from all CRF facilities, academia, industry, and government stakeholders to promote collaboration and innovation,” she said.
Impact on Research Ecosystem
The CRF ecosystem is aimed at making high-end scientific infrastructure accessible to researchers across India and supporting work in sectors such as healthcare, semiconductors, clean energy, pharmaceuticals, environmental sciences and deep-tech innovation. By fostering partnerships and providing access to advanced tools, CRF Day 2026 reinforced IIT Delhi's commitment to driving scientific progress and industrial collaboration.
