Seminar, National Quiz and Conferences
International Conference on Transdisciplinary Research in Life Sciences (ICTRLS) - 2026: Sustainable Innovations
Date: 17 & 18 February 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru in partnership with the University of Florida (USA), Sophia University (Japan), and Trans Disciplinary University (TDU), Bengaluru, successfully hosted the 3rd International Conference on Transdisciplinary Research in Life Sciences (ICTRLS) on February 17–18, 2026. Centered on the theme “Sustainable Innovations,” the event drew over 150 participants from 25 premier institutions nationwide. The conference was inaugurated by Prof. LS Shashidhara Director, National Center for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Bengaluru, who emphasized the critical role of scientific innovation in addressing global challenges in agriculture and health. Fr. Dr. Marialal Joseph, Director, Center for Research and Development, underscored the power of transdisciplinary dialogue in shaping a robust research culture. A key milestone of the ceremony was the official release of the Conference Book of Abstracts. The keynote session was delivered by the Guest of Honour, Dr. Daniel M. Czyz from University of Florida, lauded India’s action plan against antimicrobial resistance and urged young scholars to bridge the gap between innovation and collaboration. Six plenary sessions by eminent scientists acroos the world delivered by Dr. Ravi Manjithaya (Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research - JNCASR, Bengaluru), Dr. Bommanna Loganathan (Murray State University, USA), Dr. Toyonobu Usuki (Sophia University, Japan), Prof. Steve Flint (Massey University, New Zealand), Dr. Gurmeet Singh (TDU, Bengaluru) and Dr. Mahesh Sahare (Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine, Bengaluru), witness extensive deliberations on topics from food technology to stem cell science. More than 90 research papers were presented as oral and posters. The conference concluded with a valedictory session which included heartfelt words of appreciation and gratitude from the delegates and the participants. The conference laid a robust foundation to advance collaborative and scalable sustainable innovations that address emerging global challenges while balancing progress with environmental responsibility.
International Expert Lecture on ‘Viral Genetic Medicine: Genesis and Progress’
Date: 10 February 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences at Kristu Jayanti University organized an International Expert Lecture titled “Viral Genetic Medicine: Genesis and Progress" on February 10, 2026. The session was designed to enhance students’ understanding of the rapidly evolving field of viral genetic medicine and its clinical applications. The program commenced with a welcome address delivered by Ms. Akshatha Patil, III B.Sc. MBGE. The distinguished resource person for the lecture Dr. Sam Laurel Stephen, Global Gene Therapy Subject Matter Expert, Biostrategy Unit, Boehringer Ingelheim (Germany) was introduced by Ms. Tejaswini of III B.Sc. MBGE. Dr. Stephen provided an in-depth overview of viral genetic medicine, emphasizing its foundational principles and the development of viral vectors such as lentivirus, retrovirus, adenovirus, and adeno-associated virus (AAV) for therapeutic applications. He highlighted the importance of comprehending the mechanisms of these vectors in the context of gene therapy. The interactive nature of the lecture encouraged active participation from the VI semester UG Life Science program. Engaging discussions and thoughtful questions allowed students to clarify concepts and explore the broader implications of viral genetic medicine for future research and clinical practice. The session proved to be highly informative and intellectually enriching, inspiring participants to further pursue academic and professional opportunities in genetic medicine. The program concluded with a formal vote of thanks.
Pre-event to the International Trade Fair (ITF)
Date: 28 January 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, organized the Pre-event to the International Trade Fair (ITF) 2026 on the theme “Agriculture Beyond Cultivation: Empowering Farmers” on 28 January 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM, at the Jubilee Auditorium, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru. The programme aimed to create awareness on sustainable agriculture, value addition, and entrepreneurial opportunities, emphasizing the need to empower farmers beyond traditional cultivation practices.
The programme was inaugurated by Sri. N. Chaluvarayaswamy, Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, he emphasized the importance of familiarising the children with crops like millets and help them understand the journey of food from cultivation to consumption. The event was further graced by the presence of eminent dignitaries including Dr. S. Selvakumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Agriculture Department, and Shri. Y. S. Patil, IAS, Commissioner for Agriculture and Dr. Puthra G. T., Director of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka.
The pre-event included academic sessions and student engagement activities. A panel discussion on “From Farm to Enterprise: Enriching Farms, Empowering Farmers Beyond Production” highlighted the importance of integrating farming with value addition and entrepreneurship. An expert session on the impact of agroecology on agricultural production and farmer income emphasized environmentally sustainable farming practices and their role in ensuring long-term productivity and economic stability. The programme also featured competitions such as the Ideathon – “From Farm to Fortune,” Traditional Food Expo – “Sanskriti Swaad,” Hackathon – “From Seed to Scale,” and Photography Competition – “From Soil to Frames.” An exhibition, theme dance, and the book release titled “Traditional Grains, Modern Plates” were key highlights of the event.
The pre-event served as a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and stakeholder engagement in agriculture. It encouraged students and participants to explore sustainable and enterprise-oriented approaches, contributing towards farmer empowerment and sustainable agricultural development.
Internship Orientation Programme
Date: 27 January 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, conducted an Internship Orientation Programme for I year MSc Biotechnology, Microbiology and Biochemistry students, and II-year BSc BTGEBC, MBGEBC and BOBTBC students at M1 Auditorium from 12 to 1 PM. The programme aimed to create awareness about the importance, structure, and requirements of internships as an integral component of the academic curriculum.
The session was led by Dr. Shinomol George, Internship Coordinator, who provided detailed guidance on internship objectives and expectations. She highlighted the significance of internships in enhancing skill development, gaining industry exposure, and fostering research orientation among students.
During the orientation, students were briefed on eligibility criteria, duration of internships, selection of internship centres, required documentation, and evaluation procedures. Emphasis was placed on maintaining discipline, fulfilling academic requirements, and strictly adhering to institutional guidelines throughout the internship period.
The session was interactive, with active student participation and clarification of queries related to internship opportunities and procedures. Overall, the programme was informative and beneficial, enabling students to gain clarity and prepare effectively for their upcoming internships.
ACS-Interactions: Symposium for Scientific and Career Advancement
Date: 12 January 2026
The Department of Life Science in collaboration with the American Chemical Society (ACS), conducted a symposium titled ‘ACS interactions Symposium for Scientific and Career Advancement’ on 12th January 2026 for the 1st and 2nd year PG students. The event brought together students, academicians, and industry professionals for a day of learning and dialogue. The programme was formally inaugurated by Rev.Fr. Lijo P Thomas, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Mr. Rajesh Parishwad, Senior Associate Director, Global Strategy for Society programs, American Chemical Society. In his inaugural address, he emphasized the evolving role of chemistry and life sciences in addressing global challenges.
The conclave featured a series of expert talks. Dr. Tharamani, Professor, Ropar, spoke about biomolecule detection and biosensors ‘Chemistry in environmental sustainability’ was introduced by Ms. P Bineesha, Executive Director, International Institute for Waste Management. Ms. Aparna Sharma, Program Manager, Global Strategy for Society programs, American Chemical Society concluded the talk by discussing about ‘Unlocking opportunities: ACS resources for career advancement in research and academia’. The symposium has witnessed very active participation of postgraduate students. This is evident from the interesting discussion sessions and questions asked during the symposium, which reflected their deep enthusiasm for both scientific innovation as well as developments related to their future careers.
53rd Vichaarmanthan
Date: 08 January 2026
The 53rd Vichaarmanthan was organised on Thursday, January 8, 2026, by the Department of Life Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University). This prestigious forum aims to foster meaningful engagement with eminent Indian and international visionaries, thereby broadening academic perspectives and nurturing informed leadership. The event gained special significance as the University had the honour of hosting His Excellency, Archbishop Rev. Fr. Carlo Maria Polvani, Secretary of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, Rome, Italy, for the first time. His Excellency was accompanied by the Most Rev. Fr. Hrudaya Raju, Official of the Dicastery for Asia and Oceania and Rev. Fr. Mathew Attumkal, President of Dharmaram Vidya Kshetram. In his address, Archbishop Polvani recalled his research on the sodium–potassium pump and the experimental limitations of earlier scientific methods. Comparing past and present technologies, he noted the advancements enabled by artificial intelligence. He highlighted the transformative impact of AI on Chemistry and related disciplines. Emphasizing ethical responsibility, he urged students to ensure scientific progress benefits humanity. He concluded by inspiring students to pursue excellence and extraordinary success. The forum was subsequently opened for interaction, during which His Excellency, Archbishop Rev. Fr. Carlo Maria Polvani, engaged in a fruitful and insightful discussion with the students, addressing their queries and inspiring them with his profound perspectives.
Transdisciplinary Research in Life Sciences: Planetary Health (ICTRLS-2025)
Date: 06 March 2025
2nd International Conference on Transdisciplinary Research in Life Sciences: Planetary Health (ICTRLS-2025) organized by Department of Life Sciences, Kristu Jayanti College Autonomous, Bengaluru in collaboration with The University of Transdisciplinary Health Sciences and Technology (TDU), University of Michigan - Flint USA and Belmont University, USA on 6th March and 7th March 2025 witnessed insightful discussions on ecological sustainability and interdisciplinary learning. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Prof. Chandrabhas Narayana, Director, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Thiruvananthapuram. Fr. Jais V Thomas, in his Presidential Address, emphasized the shift from anthropocentrism to biocentrism, highlighting interdependence and the need to integrate technology with philosophy for ecological harmony. Prof. Chandrabhas Narayana delivered inaugural message by emphasizing that “just knowing biology is not enough” and advocating for learning beyond exams. He introduced concepts like "Bio-E3 (Economy, Environment and Entrepreneurship)" and "Bio Clusters", emphasizing their incorporation into such conferences to foster meaningful learning. The event also featured the release of the Book of Abstracts and Book on Medicinal Plants of Smart Medicinal Garden of the college maintained by Department of Life Sciences. The ceremony kickstarted a strong beginning for discussions on planetary health, sustainability, and the role of biotechnology in addressing global challenges. The conference witnessed 100 paper and poster presentations and above 170 participants from more than 30 institutions. The conference was well appreciated for structured sessions and being well organized by all the participants.
