Bhubaneswar: In a move towards emphasising on research and development of tuberculosis vaccine, two premier institutions— Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar and Institute of Life Sciences (ILS)—signed an MoU here Thursday. The collaboration aims to bring excellence in technical education, particularly in biological sciences, molecular biology, and microbiology to improve the quality of academic practices. The MoU was signed between Rajesh Roshan Dash, dean, Sponsored Research and Industrial Consultancy (In Charge) of IIT Bhubaneswar and Debasis Dash, director of ILS. Shreepad Karmalkar director, IIT Bhubaneswar was present on the occasion.
Speaking at the event, Karmalkar said, “This collaboration will enhance the ecosystem for research in various fields of life sciences, and help in treatment and cure of many diseases and natural ailments. IIT Bhubaneswar, as a technical knowledge provider, is looking forward to this association to foster innovation in this field.” Dash expressed his gratitude and said, “The MoU between the two premier institutions will not only bring transformation in research in the field of biological sciences but also help Odisha in creating a benchmark in this domain. The special focus towards developing the vaccine for tuberculosis prevention will boost our efforts.” The faculty members from both institutes will collaborate and train students in their individual areas of expertise, based on mutually agreed programmes. The institutions plan to work towards jointly organising symposia, colloquiums, workshops, seminars, and conferences on different topics and conduct joint research projects.
ARINDAM GANGULY, OP