Academic Enrichment Programs
NPTEL Orientation for III Semester UG Life Sciences
Date: 17 July 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences, Kristu Jayanti University, conducted an NPTEL Orientation Programme for the third-semester B.Sc. Triple Major students of BGB, MBG, and BBB on 17th July 2026 from 12:50 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the M1 Auditorium, Science Block. The session introduced students to the NPTEL platform and its role in enhancing academic learning through high-quality online courses. As this was the students' first exposure to NPTEL, they were provided with a comprehensive overview of the platform, its features, and its academic benefits, with hands-on experience in the portal. The mandatory NPTEL course prescribed for the current semester was explained in detail. Students were guided through the complete NPTEL workflow, including course enrolment, registration, assignment submission, examination procedures, certification, and successful course completion. Important timelines, the examination pattern, evaluation criteria, and certification requirements were also discussed. The session highlighted the importance of completing the mandatory course to fulfil the curriculum requirements and emphasised the opportunities NPTEL offers to strengthen subject knowledge, develop technical skills, and enhance career readiness through courses delivered by faculty from premier institutions. Students were informed about the departmental support available throughout the registration and course completion process. The interactive session concluded with the clarification of students' queries regarding course registration, examinations, and certification, followed by encouragement to actively participate in and successfully complete the prescribed NPTEL course within the stipulated timeline.
NPTEL Orientation of PG students in Life Sciences
Date: 16 July 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences, Kristu Jayanti University, organized an NPTEL Orientation Programme for the second-year postgraduate students of M.Sc. Biochemistry, M.Sc. Biotechnology and M.Sc. Microbiology, on 16th July 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the M3 Auditorium, Science Block. The orientation aimed to familiarize students with the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) and its significance in enhancing academic and professional competencies. During the session, the institutional guidelines regarding the mandatory NPTEL course assigned to each postgraduate programme were explained in detail. Students were informed about the course registration procedure, eligibility requirements, examination process, certification criteria, and the importance of successfully completing the course as part of the university's academic framework. The complete workflow of NPTEL, from enrolment to certification, was presented in a systematic and easy-to-understand manner. The session also highlighted the benefits of NPTEL courses in promoting interdisciplinary learning, skill development, and career advancement. Students were encouraged to adhere to the prescribed timelines and actively engage with the online learning platform to maximize their learning outcomes. Queries raised by the participants regarding course selection, examinations, and certification were addressed comprehensively during the interactive discussion. The orientation concluded with a reminder on the importance of timely registration and successful completion of the assigned NPTEL course, ensuring that students were well-informed and prepared to undertake the programme.
Summer Internship in Limnetic Microbiology
Date: June 10 to 10 July 2026
The School of Biological and Forensic Sciences, Department of Life Sciences, Bio-Skills Studio, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, successfully organized a 30-day Summer Internship in Limnetic Microbiology from 10 June to 10 July 2026 at the PG Microbiology Laboratory. The internship brought together 30 interns from leading institutions across India, including the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, St. Joseph's College (Autonomous), and Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University). Designed to provide an immersive research experience in freshwater microbial ecology, the program combined extensive field investigations with advanced laboratory techniques, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence.
Participants conducted lake water sampling from freshwater ecosystems in Bengaluru and investigated the diversity of microalgae, bacteria, and fungi through morphological, biochemical, and molecular characterization. The internship offered comprehensive hands-on training in microbial isolation, identification, and ecological analysis, while exposing interns to modern computational approaches, including bioinformatics analysis, phylogenetic reconstruction, and Artificial Intelligence-assisted microbial taxonomy. As part of the molecular characterization workflow, interns performed genomic DNA extraction, PCR amplification, DNA sequencing, and sequence analysis, culminating in the successful publication of 220 nucleotide sequences representing the 16S rRNA gene, 18S rRNA gene, and Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region in the NCBI GenBank database.
The internship also emphasized microbial prospecting for industrial and environmental applications. Participants screened the isolated microorganisms for bacterial pigment production, heavy metal resistance, antibiotic resistance, hydrocarbon degradation, enzyme production, and biosynthesis of nanoparticles. Fungal isolates were additionally evaluated for the production of antimicrobial metabolites (fungal antibiotics), providing interns with exposure to the discovery of bioactive compounds from freshwater microorganisms. By integrating field limnology, molecular microbiology, microbial biotechnology, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, and translational research, the internship equipped participants with industry-relevant skills and practical research experience aligned with contemporary advances in environmental microbiology and microbial biotechnology.
Internship Programme on Fermentation and Enzyme Technology
Date: June 15 to 03 July 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences, organized a comprehensive internship programme on Fermentation and Enzyme Technology under the aegis of Bioskill Studio, held from June 15th to July 3rd, 2026. The programme brought together both internal and external participants, offering them an immersive hands-on learning experience in the field of microbial fermentation and enzyme technology. The programme commenced with an inaugural session on June 15th, graced by Dr. Priya Josson, Head, Department of Life Sciences, who felicitated the participants and set the tone for the intensive training ahead. The event was coordinated by Dr. Esther Shoba, Internship Coordinator, whose guidance shaped the structured and skill-oriented approach of the entire programme. Over the course of the internship, participants were trained in the complete workflow of fermentation-based enzyme production. The training began with the isolation of bacteria, followed by detailed morphological, biochemical, and molecular characterization of each isolate, carried out individually by every participant. This was followed by an in-depth exploration of enzyme production, where participants performed both qualitative and quantitative assessments to identify and maximize enzyme yield from their respective bacterial isolates. A key highlight of the programme was the training on media optimization using Design-Expert (DoE) software, enabling participants to statistically design and optimize fermentation media for enhanced enzymatic production — a skill of significant value in industrial biotechnology. Participants further gained expertise in enzyme purification techniques, including dialysis and chromatographic methods, rounding off their understanding of the complete enzyme production pipeline from isolation to purification. Towards the culmination of the programme, participants were entrusted with the responsibility of independently handling microbial cultures and optimizing fermentation conditions, reinforcing their practical competence and confidence in laboratory-scale bioprocessing. This internship not only strengthened the participants' technical and analytical skills but also opened avenues for their entry into the pharmaceutical and food industries, equipping them with industry-relevant expertise crucial for their future career growth in biotechnology and applied life sciences.
Summer Internship - From Gene to Protein: Practical Internship in Molecular Techniques
Date: 22 June to 09 July 2026
The Department of Life Sciences organised Summer Internship on “From Gene to Protein: Practical Internship in Molecular Techniques” for Life Science students from 22nd June to 9th July 2026. The emphasis of the internship programme was to inculcate hands on skills in Molecular Biology techniques. Internship provided extensive hands-on experience in basic and advanced molecular biology protocols. During the course of fifteen days, students learnt the necessary laboratory protocols from media preparation and culturing of Drosophila melanogaster through DNA isolation from plant tissue, animal tissue, insect and cell line. Methods such as agarose gel electrophoresis and spectrophotometric analysis reinforced the knowledge of DNA characterization and quantification. Students also learned how to design and analyze primers through bioinformatics tools, and effectively carried out PCR reaction setups and amplifications. Toward the later phases, students were exposed to protein separation with SDS-PAGE, followed by Western blotting and immune detection methods, which showcased protein analysis techniques. This internship significantly improved the technical competence, critical thinking, and research readiness, providing a solid basis for prospective academic and research work in molecular biology.
Summer Internship - DNA Barcoding and Molecular Phylogeny
Date: 15 to 30 June 2026
The Department of Life Sciences, as part of its BioSkills Studio initiative, successfully organized a Summer Internship in DNA Barcoding and Molecular Phylogeny from 15 June 2026 to 30 June 2026, held from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for II and III year Life Science students. The internship was attended by 17 students and was conducted by Dr. Anoja Kurian, Assistant Professor, and Dr. Gurunathan S., Associate Professor. The programme provided participants with a strong foundation in molecular identification techniques and phylogenetic analysis through intensive hands-on training in DNA isolation, PCR amplification, and agarose gel electrophoresis. Students also gained practical experience in primer designing using Primer3, sequence editing with BioEdit, BLAST analysis, and molecular phylogenetic tree construction using MEGA software. In addition, participants were introduced to GenBank sequence submission, barcoding gap analysis, and the BOLD database for DNA-based species identification. The internship effectively integrated wet-lab techniques with bioinformatics tools, enabling students to develop practical laboratory skills, computational proficiency, and a deeper understanding of molecular taxonomy and evolutionary biology. The programme successfully enhanced the research competencies offor the participants and prepared them for advanced studies and careers in molecular biology, biotechnology, and biodiversity research. Certificates were distributed to all participants in recognition of their successful completion of the internship.
Alumni Interaction on ‘Gateway to Research Careers: CSIR NET and SET Excellence’
Date: 09 April 2026
The Centre for UGC and CSIR NET/JRF Training in collaboration with Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru organized an Alumni Interaction on “Gateway to Research Careers: CSIR NET and SET Excellence” for the II PG Life Science students. The session featured two distinguished alumni as resource persons: Ms. Selvapriya (2023 -2025 batch), Teaching Faculty in the Department of Life Sciences at Kristu Jayanti University, and Ms. Neha Brijith Rinso (2020 -2023 batch), BITP Trainee at the Haffkine Institute of Training, Research and Testing, Mumbai. Both speakers shared valuable insights into preparing for competitive examinations such as CSIR NET. SET and other similar examinations focussing on research careers. They highlighted effective strategies, common challenges, and the importance of perseverance in building a successful research career. Their interaction not only provided practical guidance but also motivated students to pursue excellence in research, reinforcing the significance of alumni engagement in shaping academic and professional aspirations. The event witnessed the participation of over 130 students and faculty members.
Expert lecture on mass spectrometry for proteomics
Date: 08 April 2026
Department of Life Sciences organized an expert session by Dr. Arun Surendran, Senior Manager and Officer-in-Charge at the Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), Trivandrum on 08/04/2026 on the topic mass spectrometry for proteomics. The session was hybrid mode and attended by II semester M.Sc. Biotechnology, microbiology and biochemistry students. It was practical learning for the students as they session was conducted with a practical prospectives on interfacing of MS such as LC-MS/MS and peptide mass fingerprinting.
Expert Talk on Industry-Academia Interface
Date: 23 February 2026
An interactive session with Mr. M. Ramakrishna, CEO of Maithri Aquatech, was organized with the aim of gaining valuable industry insights to enhance the institution’s placement strategies. Dean Academics- Dr Jude Calistius, Dean- School of Biological and Forensic sciences, Dr Vijayanand, Head of Department- Department of Life Sciences, Dr Gurunathan and Dr Prasanna Kumar, members of the Placement Cell-Department of Life sciences and Dr Lakshmi Garimella Department of Life Sciences were present.The session focused on understanding how academic institutions can better prepare students for the workforce and improve their employability through meaningful industry engagement. During the interaction, Mr. Ramakrishna emphasized that internships serve as one of the most effective pathways to securing employment. He highlighted that internships allow students to gain practical exposure, understand workplace expectations, and demonstrate their abilities to potential employers. According to him, students who show sincerity, dedication, and commitment during their internship period are more likely to receive job offers from the organizations where they train. He further pointed out that faculty members play a critical role in strengthening the placement ecosystem. He suggested that faculty should maintain continuous communication with industry mentors and supervisors to monitor students’ progress during internships. Regular follow-up regarding students’ performance, behaviour, and commitment can help institutions understand how well students adapt to professional environments. Such engagement would gradually lead to sustained and long-term improvements in placement outcomes.
Mr. Ramakrishna also addressed the importance of identifying and addressing existing skill gaps among students. He recommended that academic departments actively interact with industry professionals to understand the current skill sets required in the job market. By incorporating these industry-relevant skills into the curriculum and training programmes, institutions can better equip students with the competencies needed to succeed in their careers.
The session provided valuable insights into strengthening the collaboration between academia and industry. The discussion highlighted the importance of internships, faculty involvement, and curriculum alignment with industry needs as key factors in enhancing students’ employability and improving placement opportunities.
International Expert Lecture on ‘Beyond Antibiotics: Non-Traditional Strategies to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance'
Date: 20 February 2026
An International Expert Lecture was organized by the Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological and Forensic Sciences at Kristu Jayanti University on 21st February 2026. Dr. Daniel M. Czyz from the University of Florida was the distinguished speaker of the day and delivered a lecture titled “Beyond Antibiotics: Non-traditional Strategies to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance.” Dr. Czyz examined the escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), stressing that conventional antibiotics are increasingly inadequate in addressing resistant pathogens. He introduced innovative approaches such as bacteriophage therapy, silver nanoparticles and microbiome modulation, highlighting their potential as sustainable and effective alternatives. The lecture emphasized the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating microbiology, molecular biology, and biomedical sciences to develop comprehensive solutions. Dr. Czyz also underscored the global health implications of AMR, noting that resistance undermines current treatments and poses significant risks to future medical advances. The session provided postgraduate students with critical insights into emerging research directions, encouraging them to adopt innovative perspectives and interdisciplinary strategies in their academic pursuits. The program successfully achieved its objective of inspiring young researchers to contribute meaningfully to the global effort against antimicrobial resistance, thereby reinforcing the institution’s dedication to cultivating a responsible and forward-looking research culture.
Hands on Skill Development Training in Polymerase Chain Reaction
Date: 16, 17 & 26 October 2025
The Department of Life Sciences organised “Hands on Skill Development Training in Polymerase Chain Reaction” for I and II-year PG Life Science students and I, II and III Year UG Life Sciences students from 16th ,17th and 26th October 2025. The first day of the workshop focused on the theoretical aspects of PCR and the crucial step of primer designing, followed by hands-on training in setting up a PCR reaction.
The session commenced with an introductory lecture covering the fundamental principles of PCR, including denaturation, annealing, and extension phases. Key components of a PCR reaction, such as DNA template, primers, DNA polymerase, dNTPs, and buffer, were thoroughly explained. The significance of each component and their optimal concentrations for efficient amplification were highlighted. The primer 3 plus software usage in designing the primer and also analysing the primer using oligoanalyser tool were discussed and hands on was done. The second day of the workshop focused on the visualization and analysis of the amplified PCR products using agarose gel electrophoresis. The two-day hands-on PCR training workshop provided participants with a valuable learning experience, encompassing both the theoretical foundations and practical skills essential for performing PCR and analysing the results. The interactive sessions, combined with hands-on practice in primer designing, PCR setup, gel loading, and running, equipped the participants with the confidence and competence to apply these techniques in their future research endeavours. The positive feedback received from the participants indicates the effectiveness of the workshop in achieving its objectives.
Confluence 2025 - Book Release & Mini Symposium
Date: 16 September 2025
The Department of Life Sciences and Centre for Research & Development, Kristu Jayanti University, Bengaluru, organized Confluence 2025 – Book Release and Mini Symposium on 16th September 2025. The event commenced with the release of the book “Microbial Enzymes as Potential Biotherapeutics in Human Healthcare.” The book was released by Rev. Fr. Joshy Mathew, Chief Human Resource Officer & Director, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Kristu Jayanti University, and the first copy was received by Dr. Aloysius Edward, Registrar (In-charge), Kristu Jayanti University. The Mini Symposium session witnessed two plenary addresses delivered by distinguished experts in the field. Dr. Sabu Abdulhameed, Author & Member Secretary, Kerala State Council for Science, Technology & Environment (KSCSTE), Trivandrum, Kerala, in his address emphasized the significance of microbial enzymes in advancing healthcare solutions and their contribution to sustainable biomedical applications. Dr. Jayachandran K., Author & Professor, School of Biosciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, Kerala, provided valuable insights into the therapeutic applications of microbial enzymes, highlighting their potential as emerging tools in human healthcare. The event concluded with the Author’s Note of Gratitude by Dr. Dileep Francis, Author & Dean, Research & Development, Kristu Jayanti University, who expressed appreciation to the dignitaries and participants for their support and contribution to the success of the event.
Awareness Session on Substance Abuse
Date: 12 September 2025
Substance abuse is an increasing concern among today’s youth, affecting not only health but also family and society. To address this issue, an awareness talk was organized by Department of Life sciences to educate students on the harmful effects of drugs, alcohol, and other addictive substances. The session highlighted the physical, psychological, and social consequences of substance use. Resource persons Mr. S.J Chander , CEO, FSHI and Dr.Jayant M, NIMHANS emphasized the importance of making informed choices and seeking timely help when needed. An interactive discussion was held to clarify doubts and encourage students to adopt healthy lifestyles. The program aimed to empower young minds with knowledge and resilience to stay away from substance abuse
Alumni Expert Lecture
Date: 23 August 2025
The Department of Life Sciences, School of Biological & Forensic Sciences, Kristu Jayanti University, organized an Alumni Expert Lecture on “Short Chain Fatty Acids in Cancer Therapy” on 23rd August 2025 at 9:30 AM in the M3 Auditorium, Science Block, III Floor. The resource person for the session was Ms. Nidhi Prakash, Research Scholar and K-DST Fellow, Bangalore University, Jnanabharathi Campus, and alumna of M.Sc. Microbiology (2016–2018 batch), Kristu Jayanti University. The lecture focused on the emerging role of short-chain fatty acids as potential therapeutic agents in cancer treatment. Ms. Nidhi Prakash shared her research insights, highlighting mechanisms, applications, and future prospects in biotechnology and medical science. The session was attended by I & II year PG students of Biotechnology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry. Students actively interacted with the resource person and gained valuable knowledge on the research opportunities in cancer biology. The lecture concluded with an interactive Q&A session, followed by a vote of thanks. The event served as an excellent platform for students to learn from the research experiences of an accomplished alumna.
Tiny Greens, Mighty Impact: Unlocking the journey of microgreens and their innovations in health, food, and agriculture
Date: 29 August 2025
A skill development orientation series on "Tiny Greens, Mighty Impact: Unlocking the Journey of Microgreens and Their Innovations in Health, Food, and Agriculture" was held on August 29, 2025, for B.Sc Botany students. The session was organized by the Department of Life Sciences and featured Mrs. Selva Mary (Latha), Founder of Sunrudh Microgreens, as the guest speaker. The orientation provided an in-depth look into the world of microgreens, highlighting their significance beyond simple culinary use. Mrs. Selva Mary defined microgreens as the first true leaves of plants, harvested at a very young stage, typically 7-14 days after germination. She emphasized the nutritional superiority of microgreens, explaining that they often contain higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to their mature counterparts. This makes them a "superfood" with immense potential in promoting health and wellness. The session covered the scientific basis for this nutritional density, linking it to the plant's early growth stage when it is rich in concentrated nutrients necessary for development. Mrs. Selva Mary also discussed the innovative applications of microgreens in food, with their intense flavour profiles and vibrant colours making them a popular ingredient in gourmet cuisine, from salads and sandwiches to smoothies and garnishes. She also highlighted their high nutritional content, that makes them potential candidates in nutraceuticals and dietary supplements. The session touched upon the sustainable and space-efficient nature of microgreen cultivation, which requires minimal water and can be grown indoors in small spaces. This makes them a viable option for urban farming and a potential solution for food security in densely populated areas. Students were enlightened and encouraged for hands on training in microgreen cultivation.
Skill Orientation Lecture on “From Gene to Cure: CRISPR's Promise in Diagnostics and Therapy”
Date: 09 August 2025
The Department of Life Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), organized a skill orientation session for MSc students on 9 August 2025. The talk was facilitated by Dr. Gokul Kesavan, Director of Cascore Bio Pvt Ltd, on the theme “From Gene to Cure: CRISPR's Promise in Diagnostics and Therapy”. Dr. Kesavan introduced the audience to the core principles of CRISPR, the revolutionary gene-editing technology derived from the bacterial immune system, and its transformative impact on modern biology. He explained how CRISPR has evolved from a fundamental scientific discovery to a powerful tool with tangible therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
The lecture highlighted CRISPR’s success in treating genetic diseases such as Sickle Cell Anemia, alongside its emerging role in point-of-care diagnostics for infectious diseases and cancer. Special emphasis was placed on how CRISPR-based platforms are being adapted for affordable and accessible diagnostics in low-resource settings, bridging gaps in global healthcare. By integrating molecular biology concepts with clinical relevance and translational research examples, the session inspired students to view CRISPR not merely as a laboratory tool, but as a driving force for innovation in biomedical science. The orientation concluded with an engaging interaction, encouraging students to explore research avenues where CRISPR can address real-world healthcare challenges.
The students were able to describe the mechanism of CRISPR and its precision in gene editing, relate this knowledge to its applications in diagnostics and therapy, and evaluate real-world examples in managing genetic and infectious diseases. They were also able to assess the ethical, legal, and social implications of CRISPR use in healthcare, and develop innovative ideas for its future role in disease detection, treatment, and potential cures.
Experience Sharing On Early Breast Cancer Detection Awareness
Date: 13 March 2025
On March 13, 2025, an awareness session on early breast cancer detection was conducted at 3:30 PM in the M1 Auditorium of Kristu Jayanti College, organized by the Department of Life Sciences. The session aimed to educate students on breast cancer prevention, the importance of early detection, and available support resources. It was attended by undergraduate students from BSc BGB A, BGB B, MBB, BBB, FBB (2nd semester), and MBGE, BTBO, BTBC (4th semester), along with postgraduate students from MSc Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Microbiology.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, but with early detection, awareness, and timely treatment, survival rates improve significantly. Ms. Nisha Jose, a cancer survivor and social enabler, led the session by sharing her personal journey and emphasizing the importance of regular screenings and self-examinations. She highlighted how lifestyle changes such as balanced nutrition, physical activity, and stress management can reduce cancer risks. Beyond her advocacy for cancer awareness, she is the visionary behind the initiative "One India One River One Woman," which promotes environmental sustainability and women's empowerment. As a PADI-certified deep-sea diver, author, and motivational speaker, she has inspired many with her story of resilience and perseverance. The session provided valuable insights, encouraged open discussions, and motivated students to take proactive steps in their health while spreading awareness within their communities.
