Commemoration / VAC / Other Activities

Awareness Programme in Observance of World Cancer Day
Date: 04 February 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), organized a Cancer Awareness Programme as part of the observance of World Cancer Day on 4th February 2026 at 12:00 noon in M404, Science Block. The programme was conducted for undergraduate students of I Year BTGEBC, Section A, with the objective of promoting awareness on cancer prevention and early detection.

A total of 65 UG students actively participated in the programme through student-led awareness talks. The students were divided into five groups, each presenting on major cancer types prevalent in India—Lung Cancer, Oral Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Blood Cancer, and Thyroid Cancer. Each presentation followed a structured format covering causes and risk factors, symptoms and early detection, preventive measures, and key takeaways.

The programme effectively enhanced students’ understanding of cancer-related health issues and emphasized the importance of awareness, prevention, and early detection, making the World Cancer Day observance meaningful and impactful.

Book Release of ‘Traditional Grains, Modern Plates: A Culinary Showcase from the Millet Chef Competition’
Date: 28 January 2026
The book “Traditional Grains, Modern Plates: A Culinary Showcase from the Millet Chef Competition” was released on 28 January 2026 as a pre-event to the International Trade Fair on Organics and Millets 2025. The release was graced by Sri N. Chaluvarayaswamy, Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, who emphasized the importance of sustainable agriculture, nutrition security, and climate resilience. The book highlights innovative culinary applications of millets, showcasing how traditional grains can be adapted to modern lifestyles. It was edited by Dr. Priya Josson Akkara and Dr. Anoja Kurian, from the department of Life Sciences with valuable contributions from student editors Mr. Abhishek Singh and Ms. Kanak Kanth, final-year B.Sc. students. The event effectively set the tone for the upcoming trade fair by promoting awareness of organics and millet-based food systems.

Vignana Vicintana - Research Colloquium
Date: 13 December 2025
The Department of Life Sciences at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, organized its annual Research Colloquium - Vignana Vicintana, on 13 December 2025 (Saturday). The Ianugural session of the event was presided by Fr.Dr. Marialal Joseph, Director, Centre for Research and Development, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru. Renowned scientist Dr. R. K. Shandil, Founder Director and Chief Scientific Officer, Foundation for Neglected Disease Research [FNDR], Bengaluru, Karnataka was the Chief Guest of the Day. The event also joined by Dr. Dileep Francis, Dean, Centre for Research and Development, Dr. Vijayanand S, Dean, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences and Dr. Priya Josson Akkara, Head, Department of Life Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru. The event served as a vibrant platform for academic exchange, innovation, and collaboration in the field of life sciences. Dr. R. K. Shandil, delivered an insightful lecture on ‘Challenges in TB drug discovery and development – An Industry Prespective’. The second session was by Dr. Gopa Nandikes, Post-Doctoral Researcher, Kyung Hee University, South Korea. Ms. Niranjana Rajesh, PG student of Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) presented the final session of the day on ‘Deep Learning for the Prediction of Protein Structures: Applications in Drug Discovery’. The colloquium was designed to nurture a strong research culture among students and faculty. By exposing participants to frontier topics and real-world applications, the event encouraged critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation in science among PG students of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Biochemistry domains.

Add on Course on Bioentepreunership
Date: 08 to 12 December 2025
The Department of Life Sciences conducted a add on course on Bioentrepreneurship for the academic year 2025–2026 from 08/12/2025 to 10/12/2025 for I Year MSc students of Biotechnology, Microbiology and Biochemistry domains. The Add-on Course on Bioentrepreneurs provides an understanding of the relevance of entrepreneurship in the field of Life science. The sessions covered key topics such as entrepreneurial processes, challenges and opportunities in life science. Through interactive lectures, activities and discussions, students gained an understanding of how to ideate for an entrepreneur, evaluate an idea for its viability and to come up with a business model. The short course was intended to inspire the students for an entrepreneurial venture, enhance their conceptual clarity and prepare them with basic concepts for any start up. A short test and feedback session were conducted at the end of the course.

Add on Course on Lifestyle and Diseases
Date: 08 to 12 December 2025
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences at Kristu Jayanti Deemed-to-be University successfully conducted an add-on course on "Lifestyle and Diseases" for the II semester BGB (Biotechnology, Genetics, Biochemistry), (MBG (Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics) and BBB (Botany, Biotechnology, Biochemistry) students from December 8th to 10th, 2025. Designed to enhance the students' understanding of the critical link between modern lifestyle choices and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, the three-day program employed a comprehensive pedagogical approach. The curriculum was meticulously structured to include interactive theory sessions, engaging activities such as debating hours to promote practical application, dedicated self-study periods for in-depth research, and a concluding assessment to evaluate learning outcomes, ensuring a holistic educational experience for all participants.

Community Outreach Program: Visit to Nagenahalli main road, K. Narayanapura
Date: 23 October 2025
The Department of Life Science conducted an extension service program at Nagenahalli main road, K. Narayanapura, with the aim of promoting hygiene, cleanliness, and healthy living practices among the residents. A dedicated team of 14 students and three faculty members took part in the initiative.

The program began with an interactive session where the team briefed the residents about the purpose of the visit. This was followed by a cleanliness drive, during which students removed paper waste, plastics, and other litter scattered across the area. The discovery of discarded gutkha packets and alcohol sachets prompted meaningful discussions with residents about the health hazards of tobacco and alcohol consumption, encouraging them to adopt safer and healthier habits.

After the cleanup, the team visited each household and distributed hygiene kits containing cotton rolls, Savlon, band-aids, sanitary pads, toothpaste, and chocolates. The gesture helped raise awareness about basic hygiene practices and emphasized the importance of personal and community well-being.

Orientation on Village and Household Survey
Date: 14 October 2025
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological & Forensic Sciences, Kristu Jayanti University, in collaboration with Unnat Bharath Abhiyan organized an Orientation session on “Village and Household Survey on 18th October 2025 at 12:00 PM in the M3 Auditorium, Science Block, III Floor.

The resource person for the session was Mr.Manjunath,, UBA Coordinator, Kristu Jayanti University explained the need of Unnat Bharat Abhiyan, a flagship program of the Ministry of Education, Government of India, that connects higher education institutions with rural communities to address development challenges through participatory approaches. He explained the significance of village and household surveys as a vital step in understanding the socio-economic and demographic profile of rural areas. The session included detailed discussions on:

  • The methodology of conducting surveys.
  • Ethical considerations during data collection.
  • Preparation of questionnaires and interview techniques.
  • Documentation and data analysis procedures.

The orientation concluded with an interactive Q&A session, followed by a vote of thanks.

Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 – A Step Towards a Cleaner Tomorrow
Date: 30 September 2025
The Department of Life Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) in association with the Centre for Environment Enrichment and Sustainability (CEES), organized a Cleanliness Drive under the banner of Swachhotsav – Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 on 30th September 2025. The programme commenced at 2:30 pm at K. Narayanapura Road, Kothanur, Bengaluru.

The drive was organized to create awareness on the importance of cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental sustainability, aligning with the nationwide Swachhata Hi Seva campaign. A total of 102 students from the Undergraduate I Semester BBG A and B sections actively participated in this initiative.

The students, guided by faculty members, undertook a two-hour cleanliness campaign along the roadside and surrounding areas near the campus. They collected litter, segregated waste into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories, and emphasized the importance of proper disposal methods by utilizing color-coded bins. The enthusiastic participation of students reflected their commitment towards contributing to a cleaner environment.

The activity not only instilled a sense of social responsibility among students but also highlighted the role of youth in nation-building and environmental stewardship. It was a learning experience that reinforced the values of teamwork, civic responsibility, and sustainability.

The Department of Life Sciences and CEES extend their gratitude to the University management for their support, and to all the students for their wholehearted participation in making the event a success. The drive concluded with a collective pledge to continue practicing cleanliness and to spread awareness about maintaining hygiene in daily life.

Micro Anime Competition - International Microorganism Day 2025
Date: 24 September 2025
Microorganisms play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and driving sustainable development. They recycle nutrients, fix atmospheric nitrogen, degrade pollutants, and support soil fertility, making them indispensable in agriculture and environmental conservation. In industry, microbes enable eco-friendly processes such as biofuel production, bioplastics, and green chemistry alternatives to reduce our carbon footprint. Their ability to degrade waste, sequester carbon, and generate renewable energy highlights their potential in addressing climate change and environmental challenges. Harnessing microbial diversity responsibly can pave the way for cleaner technologies, resilient ecosystems, and a sustainable future. With this theme in mind, Micro Anime (reel making) was performed by I Sem M.Sc. Microbiology students to depict the beneficial roles of microbes. A total of 45 participants took part in this competition.

wareness Quiz – World Alzheimer’s Day 2025
Date: 23 September 2025
As part of the observance of World Alzheimer’s Day, the Department of Life Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, organized an intra-departmental awareness quiz competition titled “Mind Matters” on 23rd September 2025. The event, conducted at 3:30 p.m. in the M2 Auditorium, aimed to engage undergraduate students in an interactive manner while enhancing their knowledge and awareness of Alzheimer’s disease.

A total of 12 teams, comprising students from the I and II-year undergraduate programs of the department, enthusiastically participated in the competition. The quiz was designed to test both general awareness and scientific understanding related to Alzheimer’s disease, its causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and the broader neurological context. The rounds included multiple-choice questions, rapid-fire segments, and scenario-based problem-solving, which kept the participants intellectually engaged and challenged throughout the event.

The atmosphere of the competition was vibrant and thought-provoking, with participants showcasing not only their academic knowledge but also teamwork and quick decision-making abilities. The carefully curated questions encouraged students to think critically about the significance of neurological health and the importance of awareness in managing Alzheimer’s disease. The audience, comprising faculty members and fellow students, added to the lively environment by cheering for the participants and engaging in discussions prompted by some of the quiz questions.

The event concluded with the declaration of the winners, who were recognized for their exceptional performance and presence of mind. Faculty members commended the efforts of all participants for their enthusiasm and curiosity. The quiz successfully served its objective of fostering awareness about Alzheimer’s disease in a dynamic, student-centered format, making the event both educational and memorable.

Celebrating International Microorganism Day 2025
Date: 23 September 2025
As part of the buzzing celebrations commemorating “International Microorganism Day – 2025” on 17th September 2025, the Department of Life Sciences proudly hosted an "Agar Art Competition" for III Semester MSc Microbiology students. The event conducted on 23rd September 2025 was a creative and scientific exploration of the microscopic world, aligning perfectly with the overarching theme of "Microbes for a Sustainable Future." The competition challenged students to blend artistic vision with microbiological precision, using various microbial cultures as their palette and agar plates as their canvas. Participants meticulously streaked and inoculated agar media with carefully selected non-pathogenic bacteria and fungi, harnessing their natural growth patterns and diverse pigmentations to create stunning visual masterpieces. Students enthusiastically embraced the theme, designing intricate art pieces that depicted concepts ranging from bioremediation and sustainable agriculture to novel therapeutics and bioenergy. The creations not only showcased the aesthetic beauty of microorganisms but also highlighted their indispensable roles in maintaining ecological balance and fostering a sustainable planet. The entries were evaluated based on scientific accuracy, artistic merit, originality, and adherence to the theme. The Agar Art Competition was a resounding success, effectively combining education, art, and awareness, and reinforcing the message that microorganisms, though tiny, hold immense potential for shaping a sustainable future. The event successfully engaged students in a memorable and meaningful way, leaving them inspired by the hidden artistry and profound importance of the microbial world. The competition served as an excellent platform for students to enhance practical skills, foster creativity: Encouraging innovative thinking within a scientific context, promote awareness about the positive contributions of microbes to society and encourage teamwork.

Certificate Course: “CRISPR: Exploring Gene Editing and Rapid Diagnostics”
Date: 06 to 21 September 2025
The Department of Life Sciences at Kristu Jayanti University, in collaboration with Cascore Bio Pvt Ltd, proudly hosted a certificate course titled CRISPR: Exploring Gene Editing and Rapid Diagnostics. The 30h intensive program (6-21 September 2025) aimed to equip participants with both theoretical foundations and hands-on skill sets in CRISPR technologies and their emerging applications in diagnostics.

The course comprised a blend of expert lectures, interactive workshops, and hands-on laboratory sessions for undergraduate and postgraduate students of life sciences. Key themes included the molecular biology of CRISPR/Cas systems, guide RNA design, gene editing strategies such as knockout and base editing, delivery methods, and validation techniques. Special emphasis was placed on CRISPR-based diagnostics using Cas12 and Cas13 systems, including platforms which are emerging as powerful tools for rapid and sensitive nucleic acid detection. Bioinformatics tools for target selection and off-target prediction were also introduced, equipping participants with computational and experimental expertise.

The course bridged theoretical knowledge with practical application, not only enhanced the research and technical skills of the participants but also fostered employability and entrepreneurial perspectives in the growing fields of gene editing and molecular diagnostics. It marked a significant step in building capacity and expertise in frontier areas of biotechnology.

Expert Lecture – World Alzheimer’s Day 2025
Date: 20 September 2025
On the occasion of World Alzheimer’s Day, observed globally on 21st September, the Department of Life Sciences organized an expert lecture on 20th September 2025. The lecture, titled “Alzheimer’s Disease: Scrutinising the Enigma,” was delivered by Dr. Phalguni Alladi, Senior Scientific Officer, NIMHANS. The session aimed to create awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and to provide participants with an in-depth scientific perspective on its complexities.

Dr. Alladi introduced Alzheimer’s disease as a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that not only impacts the individual but also places a considerable emotional and physical burden on caretakers. She explained the genetic factors linked to the disease, the underlying pathophysiology, and the role of abnormal protein accumulations in disease progression. She further discussed recent advances in understanding disease mechanisms and highlighted the significance of research directed towards preventive strategies and early detection.

The lecture witnessed active participation from nearly 270 postgraduate students and faculty members of the Department of Life Sciences. The session provided an opportunity for participants to gain comprehensive insights into Alzheimer’s disease from both a clinical and molecular perspective. Dr. Alladi’s structured explanations helped the audience appreciate the multifaceted nature of the disorder, spanning from its molecular biology to its social and psychological consequences.

In her concluding remarks, Dr. Alladi emphasized that although Alzheimer’s remains a major global health challenge, awareness, timely diagnosis, and preventive approaches can help mitigate its impact. The lecture inspired students and faculty members to engage more deeply with issues of neurodegenerative diseases and encouraged them to contribute to awareness, research, and community support initiatives.

Micro Meme Competition - International Microorganism Day 2025
Date: 19 September 2025
On 19th September 2025, the Department of Life Sciences organized a Micro-Meme Competition for V Semester B.Sc. MBGE students to commemorate International Microorganism Day 2025. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from all students, who showcased their creativity and scientific thinking through memes. Using humour, art, and scientific concepts, the students brilliantly transformed microbiology into engaging visuals.

Highlights of the Competition:
• Memes illustrating transformation, conjugation, and antimicrobial resistance.
• Creative portrayals of virus–bacteria interactions and microbial “tug of wars.”
• Clever cartoon-style picturing of fundamental microbiological processes.

The creativity and originality displayed through these memes were truly inspiring, blending science with art in a refreshing way. The competition not only enhanced scientific understanding but also provided a fun, rejuvenating experience for the students. The department congratulates all participants for making the event a grand success and for celebrating the wonderful world of microorganisms in such an innovative manner.

Micro Role Play Event of International Microorganism Day 2025
Date: 19 September 2025
Microbes, once known mainly as disease-causing agents, are now recognized as powerful tools in medicine. They are the source of life-saving antibiotics like penicillin and streptomycin, vaccines such as BCG and hepatitis B, and bioactive compounds including statins and immunosuppressants like cyclosporine. Beneficial microbes act as probiotics, supporting gut health and immunity, while engineered microbes serve as biofactories for producing insulin, hormones, and monoclonal antibodies. Emerging applications include bacteriophage therapy for antibiotic resistance, oncolytic bacteria for cancer treatment, and microbiome-based therapeutics for metabolic and autoimmune disorders. With advances in biotechnology and synthetic biology, microbes continue to transform healthcare, offering sustainable and innovative solutions for modern medicine. Creative role play performed by III semester B.Sc. MBG students depicts the beneficial nature of microbes was incredible adding meaning to the theme of “International Microorganisms Day 2025- Microbes for a sustainable future”.

Micro Sketch Competition - International Microorganism Day 2025
Date: 19 September 2025
The Department of Life Sciences at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, enthusiastically commemorated International Microorganism Day on 19th September 2025 by organizing a Micro Sketch Competition for the I year B.Sc. (MBG) students. The event was conducted under the global theme, “Microbes for a Sustainable Future,” aligning with the objective of spreading awareness about the vital roles microbes play in health, environment, and sustainability. The competition aimed to inspire young minds to explore the unseen world of microorganisms through artistic expression. Around 20 enthusiastic teams participated in the event, presenting a wide array of creative, scientifically inspired sketches that highlighted the positive contributions of microbes in areas such as medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental conservation. Each artwork reflected the students’ understanding of microbial applications and their potential to address global challenges. From probiotic gut flora to nitrogen-fixing bacteria and bioengineered microbes for waste management, the sketches beautifully communicated the theme in a visually engaging manner. The competition also served as a platform for students to showcase and develop their creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and time management skills. All participants were awarded Participation Certificates in recognition of their efforts and involvement. This event not only celebrated the significance of microbes but also encouraged students to view science through an interdisciplinary and imaginative lens, fostering a deeper appreciation of microbiology and its real-world relevance.

Orientation for CSIR NET (Life Sciences)
Date: 26 August 2025
The Centre for UGC NET and CSIR NET Training, in collaboration with the Department of Life Sciences, successfully organized Orientation Sessions on CSIR NET (Life Sciences) from 21st to 25th August 2025 for III Semester M.Sc.students specializing in Microbiology, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. The program aimed to familiarize students with the structure, syllabus, and strategic demands of the CSIR NET Life Sciences examination. Through a series of interactive sessions, students gained valuable insights into the complexity and rigor of the exam, along with the transformative academic and professional opportunities it unlocks upon qualification. Emphasis was placed on the importance of strategic study planning, time management, and conceptual clarity, as well as the cultivation of analytical reasoning skills essential for success in the examination. The orientation also underscored the significance of ethical research practices, interdisciplinary thinking, and the need to engage with institutional resources and mentorship for sustained academic growth. More than 150 students actively participated in the sessions, which were led by distinguished faculty members - Dr. Gurunathan, Dr. Roopa, and Mrs. Amrita - from the Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences. Participants responded with enthusiasm and appreciation, recognizing the relevance of CSIR NET not only as a competitive examination but also as a catalyst for career advancement and skill enhancement. The initiative successfully instilled a sense of purpose, preparedness, and professional motivation among attendees, reaffirming the University’s commitment to nurturing future-ready scholars capable of thriving in research-intensive environments.

Navigating the Research Landscape: From Basics to Innovations
Date: 22 August 2025
The Department of Life Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to beUniversity), organized a Research Empowerment Talk on the theme “Navigating the Research Landscape: From Basics to Innovations” on 22nd August 2025. The session was delivered by the resource person Dr. Jayashree R, who shared valuable insights into the fundamentals of research, challenges encountered, and innovative strategies in scientific inquiry. Students gained clarity on the overall research process, from problem identification to methodology design, and understood the importance of innovation-driven approaches in life sciences. The talk also enhanced their knowledge of critical thinking, ethical practices, and data analysis while motivating them to take up research projects with confidence and aspire for higher studies and research-oriented careers.

Anti-Ragging week – Events
Date: 13 to 18 August 2025
The Department of Life Sciences observed anti-ragging week from 13/08/2025 to 18/08/2025. This program was an initiative to create and raise awareness among the minds of the younger generation on fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity. As a part of anti-ragging awareness, the students of II and III UG participated in creating bookmarks with the themes “Together we Grow, Together we Glow” and “Bridging years, Building bonds” and making digital posters with the themes “No ragging, only respect—Friends for Life” and “Seniors guide, juniors shine.” The bookmarks were then gifted to the IUG students, symbolizing friendship and support. The awareness week concluded with an informative talk on Legal Implications and Rights Violation of ragging by Ms. Navya, Assistant professor, Kristu Jayanti College of Law, on 18/08/2025, addressing the I UG students of Life Sciences. The talk dealt with the core aspects of ragging, its effects, types and the psyche of a ragger in detail. It enlightened the students on the legal provisions and UGC regulations that protect the students from the heinous crime of Ragging. It also highlighted the Anti-ragging Committee of Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), the contact points for reporting, and the ramifications in case of a report.

Value Added Course: Industrial Biotechnology
Date: 19 to 24 July 2025
The Department of Life Sciences organised Value Added Course on Industrial Biotechnology was successfully conducted from 19th to 24th July 2025 for the V Semester B.Sc. students of BTGE, BTBC, and BTBO. The sessions were facilitated by internal faculty experts from the Department of Life Sciences, including Dr. Esther Shoba, Dr. Saraswathi, Dr. Deepak P, Dr. Manikandan, Dr. Anoja Kurian, and Dr. Rashmi Nagesh. The course aimed to provide students with insights into the industrial applications of biotechnology, covering topics such as microbial fermentation, bioreactor design, industrial enzymes, downstream processing, and the role of biotechnology in sustainable industrial practices. Each session integrated theoretical learning with real-world examples, case studies, and interactive discussions. Students gained clarity on industrial-scale processes and their relevance in pharmaceutical, food, and environmental sectors. Practical illustrations and application-oriented teaching enriched their understanding of scale-up, product recovery, and quality control in biotech industries. Students developed a strong conceptual foundation in industrial biotechnology and its relevance in modern industries. The course enhanced their employability by introducing them to industrial workflows, regulatory frameworks, and entrepreneurship opportunities in biotech manufacturing. It also encouraged critical thinking, teamwork, and interest in research and innovation within the industrial biotechnology sector.

Orientation on Nptel-Swayam Courses - UG
Date: 16 July 2025
The Department of Life Sciences conducted an orientation session for undergraduate and postgraduate students to provide guidance on selecting suitable NPTEL courses for the academic year. Students were introduced to their mentors, who will support them throughout the coursework. The session also covered course requirements for certification, a step-by-step registration process, and key enrolment deadlines. The initiative aimed to equip students with the necessary clarity and support to make informed academic choices

Orientation on Nptel-Swayam Courses - PG
Date: 16 July 2025
The Department of Life Sciences organized an orientation session focused on NPTEL courses for postgraduate life sciences students. The primary aim of the orientation was to provide students with essential information on which courses to join during the academic year. During the session, students were introduced to their mentors, who will guide them throughout their coursework. The orientation also detailed the rules and regulations required to receive a certificate upon completion of the courses. Additionally, a comprehensive, step-by-step process of how to register for these courses was shared. This included important deadlines for registration to ensure that students do not miss out on any opportunities. Overall, the session was designed to help students navigate their academic journey with clarity and support.

Value Added Course (VAC) on Principles of Drug Discovery and Development
Date: 15 July 2025
The Department of Life Sciences successfully organized a Value-Added Course (VAC) titled “Principles of Drug Discovery and Development” for III Semester M.Sc. students specializing in Microbiology, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry from 10 to 15 July 2025. This course was thoughtfully designed to bridge academic instruction with industry expectations, offering participants a deep dive into the multifaceted world of pharmaceutical research and development. Throughout the program, students gained an end-to-end understanding of the drug development pipeline, beginning with target identification and lead compound discovery, progressing through candidate optimization, and culminating in preclinical safety assessments and clinical trials. The course emphasized both the scientific rigor and regulatory frameworks that shape contemporary therapeutic innovation. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and industry-standard methodologies, the course provided students with actionable insights into the workflows, data-driven strategies, and evolving best practices that define the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. These learnings were contextualized with timely ethical discussions and real-world case studies, enabling students to critically evaluate the societal implications and translational hurdles inherent in biomedical innovation. The sessions were led by distinguished resource persons - Dr. Gurunathan and Dr. Dileep Francis, Teaching Faculty Members - whose extensive domain expertise and dynamic teaching approach fostered a vibrant and intellectually stimulating classroom environment. The interactive nature of the course encouraged student engagement through collaborative discussions and scenario-based analysis. With 120 students participating, the course proved to be a transformative academic experience, equipping future researchers and professionals with a nuanced understanding of therapeutic development. The initiative successfully inspired a sense of purpose, preparedness, and professional enthusiasm among attendees, reinforcing the Department’s commitment to nurturing talent that can thrive in both research-intensive and industry-oriented careers.

Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) Programme - 2025-26
Date: 14 to 19 July 2025
The Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) sessions for II Year B.Sc. students were conducted from 14th to 19th July 2025 across various laboratories under the Department of Life Sciences. The programme began on 14th July, with sessions for MBGEBC students held in the Botany and PG Microbiology Labs. Dr. Vineetha and Dr. Samrat Das led the sessions on biochemistry and genetics lab practices. Simultaneously, students of BOBTBC and BTGEBC-A/B attended sessions in PG BC, BT, and Genetics Labs, guided by Dr. Sriram, Dr. Arpita Mishra, Dr. Aruna, and Dr. Rosemol Jacob.

Over the course of the week, faculty members including Dr. Indira, Ms. Kushbu, Dr. Reshma K. Matthew, Dr. Mamatha N. Murthy, and Dr. Vasundhara conducted discipline-specific training in botany, microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, and biotechnology labs. Sessions were organized in batches to ensure hands-on, focused learning.

The training emphasized safe lab practices, aseptic techniques, proper labeling and documentation, and the ethical handling of biological specimens. Students also learned subject-specific protocols and the importance of maintaining a sterile and organized lab environment. The interactive sessions fostered a strong understanding of GLP principles—accuracy, safety, and responsibility—preparing students for future academic and research work.

15- Days Summer Internship & hands-on Training in Animal Cell Culture & Structure-based Drug Discovery
Date: Batch-I: - 16th June- 30th June 2025; Batch-II: - 01st July- 15th July 2025
The Department of Life Sciences organized two batches of Summer Internship & hands-on Training in Animal Cell Culture & Structure-based Drug Discovery (Batch I: 16th June- 30th June 2025; Batch II:-01st July- 15th July). The internship programme was inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Jais V Thomas, Financial Administrator, Kristu Jayanti College, Autonomous on 16/06/2024 at 09.30 am. M. Sonia Angeline, Programme Coordinator (UG) started the session with a Welcome address in the presence of Dr. Calistus Jude AL, Dean, Dr. Vijayanand.S, head of the Department and Dr. Priya Josson Akkara, Programme Coordinator (PG), Department Life Science, Kristu Jayanti College, Autonomous on 16/06/2025 at 09.30 am. The first segment of the internship focuses on animal cell culture techniques, covering essential skills for successful cultivation of cell lines, including aseptic practices, media preparation, and various analytical methods. This foundational knowledge is critical for applications in drug discovery, vaccine production, gene therapy, and host-pathogen interactions.

The second part explores Structure-Based Drug Discovery, one of the most powerful approaches in contemporary drug development. Where, Participants gain hands-on experience with computational methods and structural biology techniques used in rational drug design, including molecular visualization, docking, and simulation. The training was led by experienced teaching members with strong backgrounds in both animal cell culture and computational techniques. These experts guided participants through practical activities, shared industry best practices, and provided personalized support throughout the programme. The facilitators for the internship were Dr. Kushi Anand, Dr. Dileep Francis, Dr. Priya Josson, Kristu Jayanti College (Autonomous), Bangalore, and Ms. Ragini Agarwal, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. The interactive sessions, combined with hands-on practice, equipped the participants with the confidence and competence to apply these techniques in their future research endeavors. The batch-1 and 2 internships were concluded on 30th June and 15th July 2025 respectively by distributing the certificate in the valedictory function in presence of Fr. Dr. Marialal Joseph, Faculty Member, School of Management.

Value Added Course (VAC) on Human Physiology
Date: 12 July 2025
The Department of Life Sciences conducted a value added course on Human Physiology for the academic year 2025–2026 from 08/07/2025 to 12/07/2025 for III Semester B.Sc. BTGEBC B and BTBOBC students. The course aimed to impart foundational knowledge on various physiological systems and their regulatory mechanisms in the human body. Core concepts covered included blood composition, circulation, respiration, digestion, excretion, muscle contraction, neurotransmission, and human reproductive systems. Students were introduced to practical aspects such as measuring blood pressure, glucose levels using a glucometer, and understanding clotting mechanisms. Emphasis was placed on clinical correlations, such as atherosclerosis, peptic ulcers, Parkinson’s disease, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, enhancing the relevance of physiological concepts in real-life health scenarios. The sessions encouraged active student participation through hands-on experiments and discussion-based learning. The course outcomes were aligned with enabling students to describe, infer, illustrate, and relate physiological mechanisms with underlying anatomy. The program successfully bridged textbook theory with functional application, fostering a deeper appreciation for human physiology. The enthusiastic response from students reflected the effectiveness and engagement of the course delivery.

Value Added Course (VAC) on Food and Dairy Microbiology
Date: 08 to 12 July 2025
Department of Life Sciences offered a Value-Added Course on Food and Dairy Microbiology for III semester B.Sc. MGB students from 8/07/2025 to 12/07/2025 for the academic year 2025-2026. The Course was designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in the food industry. Through this course, students gained in-depth understanding of the role of microorganisms in food processing, preservation, quality control, and the development of fermented and probiotic products. The course covered essential topics such as food safety standards, microbial spoilage, food preservation, industrial fermentations, and dairy product microbiology. Hands-on sessions included microbial examination of food, adulteration in milk, quality testing of dairy products, and preparation of fermented food like yoghurt.

This course significantly helped students by providing practical exposure to food laboratory practices and safety protocols, building awareness about current trends in food microbiology and food safety regulations. It also provided insights on various employability opportunities in food processing, dairy industries, and quality control labs and encouraging entrepreneurial thinking for developing value-added dairy and fermented products. Overall, the course empowered students with applied knowledge, making them better equipped for higher studies, research, or starting their own ventures in the growing food sector.