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ug-mb-Guest Lectures
Guest Lecture
Guest Lecture on “A Molecular Perspective on Transcription: Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Transcription”
Date: 27th October 2025 (Monday)
Resource Person: Dr. Aditya Rao SJ, Managing Director, GR Biosciences Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru
The Department of Microbiology, MSRCASC, in association with GR Biosciences, Bengaluru, and the Sukshmanika Club, organized a guest lecture on “A Molecular Perspective on Transcription: Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Transcription” at Kuvempu Seminar Hall. With 120 participants, including B.Sc. Final Semester Microbiology students, M.Sc. Microbiology I Semester, and M.Sc. Biotechnology I Semester students, the session provided an in-depth understanding of molecular mechanisms of transcription, gene expression regulation, and the key differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. Dr. Aditya Rao delivered an engaging and comprehensive lecture, explaining the structure and function of RNA polymerases, promoter regions, initiation mechanisms, sigma factors, transcription factors, enhancers, and post-transcriptional modifications such as capping, splicing, and polyadenylation. He further highlighted the applications of transcriptional biology in biotechnology, healthcare, and molecular diagnostics, enabling students to connect theoretical concepts with real-world implications. The interactive discussion and Q&A session enhanced student participation, helping clarify complex concepts and encouraging scientific curiosity.
Guest Lecture on “Homologous Recombination”
Date: 4th October 2025
Resource Person: Dr. Yogini Ramakrishna Mulay, Vice Principal & IQAC/NAAC Coordinator, Tuljaram Chaturchand College–Autonomous, Baramati, Maharashtra
The Department of Microbiology, MSRCASC, organized a guest lecture on “Homologous Recombination” for II-year B.Sc. students. The session was delivered by Dr. Yogini Mulay, a distinguished educator known for her innovative teaching approaches in molecular biology.
Dr. Mulay explained the mechanism of homologous recombination—including DNA damage repair, strand invasion, Holliday junction formation, and resolution—using interactive visuals, animations, and creative analogies. Her pedagogy-focused approach demonstrated how complex molecular processes can be made engaging and easy to understand through active learning methods.
The session created a collaborative learning environment, with students participating enthusiastically in discussions and conceptual interpretations. The lecture enhanced their understanding of genomic stability, genetic variation, and the broader applications of recombination in research and biotechnology.
Guest Lecture on “Protein Structure and Molecular Interaction”
Date: September 8th, 2025
Guest Speaker: Prof. Nagendra H. G, Professor & Head, Department of Biotechnology, Sir M. Visvesvaraya Institute of Technology
The Department of Microbiology, MSRCASC, organized a guest lecture on “Protein Structure and Molecular Interaction” for B.Sc. Honours and M.Sc. Microbiology students at the Kuvempu Seminar Hall. A total of 59 students participated in the session held from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. The lecture aimed to enhance student understanding of different types of proteins, their structural organization, and molecular interactions, while also offering expert insights relevant to microbiology and allied fields. Prof. Nagendra delivered an engaging and informative session, explaining the intricate behavior of proteins, their role in biological processes, and their interactions with various drugs and antibiotics. He also discussed microbial interactions, emerging scientific trends, and the importance of protein studies in modern research. The session was interactive and motivating, featuring demonstrations, real-world research examples, and discussions that encouraged students to think critically and analytically. Prof. Nagendra further motivated students to pursue research, explore scientific opportunities, and expressed openness for future collaborations with both faculty and students. The feedback from participants was highly positive, with students appreciating the valuable insights shared and expressing interest in attending more such expert-led lectures and workshops.
Guest Lecture on “Avenues in Biology”
18th July 2025
Resource Person: Dr. Sushama Yermal, Teacher’s Training Coordinator, Science Education & Outreach Office, NCBS–TIFR, Bengaluru
The Department of Microbiology organized a guest lecture on “Avenues in Biology” as part of the induction program for first-year students. Dr. Sushama Yermal delivered an engaging and insightful session, introducing students to the evolution of biology from classical disciplines to advanced domains like synthetic biology, systems biology, and computational biology.
Dr. Sushama emphasized the interdisciplinary nature of modern biological sciences and explained how biology integrates with chemistry, physics, engineering, and computer science. She highlighted the role of biology in tackling global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, food security, and conservation.
The session also provided an overview of academic and professional opportunities, including research fellowships, internships, industry roles, science communication, and entrepreneurship. Students actively participated by asking questions related to career planning, research skills, and emerging specializations such as bioinformatics and marine biology.
Guest Lecture on “Exploring the Microbes of Saline Environments”
Date: 10th May 2025
Resource Person: Dr. Vivek Upasani, Scientist, Genexplore Diagnostics Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, Gujarat
On 10th May 2025, the Department of Microbiology, MSRCASC organized a guest lecture on “Exploring the Microbes of Saline Environments” by Dr. Vivek Upasani for II-year B.Sc. students. The session introduced students to extremophiles thriving in saline habitats and highlighted their unique survival mechanisms such as osmoadaptation and salt tolerance strategies.
Dr. Upasani explained the ecological significance of halophiles and their applications in biotechnology, including enzyme production, pigments, and bioactive compounds. The interactive session encouraged students to explore research possibilities in areas such as drug discovery, environmental microbiomes, and metagenomic approaches.
Guest Lecture Series on “Health in 21st Century: Challenges & Innovation”
Date: 29th April 2025
The Research & Development Cell & Department of Microbiology, MSRCASC (Autonomous), organized two insightful guest lectures on 29th April 2025 under the theme “Health in 21st Century: Challenges & Innovation.” The sessions brought together experts from industry and academia to discuss emerging trends in food safety and modern approaches to combating microbial infections.
Lecture 1: “Safe Food is Divine”
Speaker: Ms. Navitha Pinto, Founder, Annbrahma Consultancy & Training Services, Bengaluru
Ms. Navitha emphasized the vital role of food safety in preventing disease and promoting public health. Key points included:
- Major foodborne pathogens and preventive measures
- GMP and HACCP frameworks
- National and international food safety regulations
- Responsibilities of producers and consumers in ensuring food hygiene
The session included case studies on food contamination, highlighting its social and economic impact. Students were encouraged to consider careers in food inspection, quality control, and regulatory services.
Lecture 2: “GangaGen’s Forays into Protein Antibiotic Therapy”
Speaker: Mr. C. B. Appaiah, Senior Scientist, GangaGen Technologies, BengaluruMr. Appaiah presented cutting-edge insights into protein-based antibiotics as innovative solutions to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance. The talk covered:
- Mechanisms of action of bacteriocins and engineered phage lysins
- GangaGen’s targeted antibacterial protein P128
- Clinical case studies and trial outcomes
- Challenges related to regulatory approval and industry adoption
- Applications in human and veterinary health care
International Microorganisms’ Day 2K24 successfully promoted scientific curiosity, appreciation for the microbial world, and the importance of conserving microbial diversity.
Workshop on “Wine Making – Research Innovation & Marketing Strategies for Advancement towards Entrepreneurship”
Date: 3rd September & 24th September 2024
The Department of Microbiology, MSRCASC, organized a two-day workshop titled “Wine Making – Research Innovation & Marketing Strategies for Advancement towards Entrepreneurship” on 3rd and 24th September 2024. The program combined theoretical insights with practical training to help first-year BSc students understand both the science and entrepreneurial potential of winemaking.
The workshop commenced on 3rd September 2024 at 10:30 AM with an expert session by Dr. Shivakumar M. C, an industry professional with over two decades of experience at Biocon. He delivered an engaging lecture covering:
Following the lecture, students were divided into eight batches and guided to the research laboratories for the hands-on component. Under the supervision of Dr. Shivakumar, Dr. Savitha J (Research Advisor, MSRCASC), and MSc Microbiology volunteers, students learned each step of the winemaking process.
In addition to grapes, innovative substrates such as ginger, betel leaf, jowar, barley, ragi, and foxtail millet were introduced. Students prepared, bottled, and incubated their wine samples for fermentation.
The second session on 24th September 2024 focused on analysing the quality of the prepared wines. MSc students demonstrated the specific gravity method to calculate alcohol percentage and assess wine properties. This provided participants with valuable exposure to quality testing techniques essential in beverage science and industry.
Guest Lecture on “Diagnostic Enzymology”
Date: 1st June 2024
Resource Person: Dr. Nagaraj M K, Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, East Point College of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bengaluru
The Department of Microbiology, MSRCASC, organized a guest lecture on “Diagnostic Enzymology” to provide students with foundational knowledge of enzyme-based clinical diagnostics. Dr. Nagaraj M K, with over two decades of expertise in biochemistry, delivered an engaging session explaining the role of diagnostic enzymes in disease detection, prognosis, and monitoring.
The lecture covered key clinical enzymes such as ALT, AST, CK, ALP, LDH, amylase, and lipase, highlighting their importance in diagnosing conditions like myocardial infarction, liver disorders, pancreatic diseases, and metabolic abnormalities. Students also gained insights into modern enzymatic assays, emerging biomarkers, and current trends in diagnostic technologies.
The interactive session deepened students’ understanding of the clinical relevance of enzymes and strengthened their ability to interpret diagnostic enzymology in real-world healthcare settings.
Guest Lecture on “Principle & Applications of Spectroscopy”
Date: 30th April 2024
Resource Person: Dr. Sudeeksha H C, Application Scientist & Head – Application and Business Support (Life Sciences), HORIBA India Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru
The Department of Microbiology, MSRCASC, organized a guest lecture on “Principle & Applications of Spectroscopy” for I and II Year B.Sc. students. Dr. Sudeeksha H C delivered an insightful session covering the fundamental principles of spectroscopy and its role in understanding the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation.
Students were introduced to key spectroscopic techniques such as fluorescence, phosphorescence, and Raman spectroscopy, along with real-time case studies demonstrating their applications in chemistry, materials science