REPORT ON THE ONE-DAY SEMINAR ON SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY

One-Day Seminar on Synthetic Biology was successfully organized by the Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM’s NMIMS (Deemed-to-be University), Mumbai in collaboration with the Mumbai Chapter of the Society of Biological Chemists, India (SBCI)

Date: February 21, 2025, Time: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Venue: Mukesh Patel "Mini Auditorium,” SVKM’s NMIMS, Mumbai.

The Sunandan Divatia School of Science, SVKM’s NMIMS (Deemed-to-be University), Mumbai, in collaboration with the Mumbai Chapter of the Society of Biological Chemists, India (SBCI), successfully organized a One-Day Seminar on Synthetic Biology on February 21, 2025. The seminar provided a valuable platform for eminent experts, researchers, and students to explore the latest advancements and emerging trends in synthetic biology - an interdisciplinary field with transformative applications in biotechnology, medicine and environmental science.

Inaugural Session

The seminar commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, Saraswati Vandana, and the NMIMS anthem, followed by an introduction of the school by Prof. Jayakumar S Bondili, Dean, SDSOS. The event was officially inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Dr. Jayant Gandhi, Secretary, SVKM’s NMIMS, and the introduction to SBCI was delivered by Prof. Hari Misra. The seminar abstract book was also inaugurated by all dignitaries, including Dr. Bajarang Kumbhar, Convener of the Seminar.

Seminar Highlights

The seminar covered critical topics, including:

Applications of Synthetic Biology in Biotechnology and Medicine
Environmental and Industrial Implications of Synthetic Biology

The event aimed to foster collaboration among young researchers, academicians, and professionals, primarily from Mumbai and Pune, while also engaging undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral scholars in meaningful discussions on the future of synthetic biology.

Distinguished Speakers

The seminar featured eight distinguished speakers from leading institutions, including:

Prof. Smita Mahale, Former Director, ICMR-NIRRCH, Mumbai
Prof. Birija Sankar Patro, BARC, Mumbai
Prof. Jomon Josep, National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune
Prof. Debasis Das, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai
Prof. Jacintha Dsouza, University of Mumbai
Dr. Jayeeta Giri, DBT Wellcome Trust Indian Alliance Fellow
Dr. Siddhesh Kamat, IISER, Pune
Dr. Harinder Singh, SDSOS, NMIMS, Mumbai

Each speaker provided valuable insights into groundbreaking research, technological advancements, and the evolving landscape of synthetic biology, sparking engaging discussions and inspiring attendees.

Doctoral Student Presentations

In addition to expert talks, doctoral students had the opportunity to present their ongoing research. Notable presentations included:

Mrs. Shruti Mishra, Scientific Officer-D, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai
Mrs. Rezina Billimoria, PhD Scholar, SDSOS, NMIMS
Dr. Shubham Sherekar, Postdoctoral Fellow, IIT Bombay

These presentations contributed to a dynamic exchange of ideas, facilitated insightful discussions, and provided constructive feedback from experts, fostering academic growth and collaboration.

Participation and Impact

The seminar witnessed over 200 participants from various colleges and research institutes, comprising:

Academicians and Researchers
Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD Scholars
Young Professors and Professionals

The seminar successfully fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas, interdisciplinary collaborations, and knowledge-sharing. The interactive sessions provided attendees with opportunities to network, discuss potential research collaborations, and gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in synthetic biology.

Valedictory Function

The valedictory session was chaired by Prof. Jayakumar S Bondili, Prof. Hari Misra, Convener, SBCI-Mumbai Chapter, and Dr. Bajarang Kumbhar, Convener, Synthetic Biology, NMIMS. The Best Poster Award was announced by Prof. Hari Misra and presented by Prof. Jayakumar S Bondili and Dr. Bajarang Kumbhar.

Poster Presentation: A total of 27 posters were presented by scholars from various colleges and institutes, out of which 7 were awarded the Best Poster Award for their outstanding contributions.

Sponsorship: The event was generously sponsored by:

Hayastack Academy
C. Abhaykumar Pvt. Ltd.
GeneX Sciences
Borosil

The conveners extend their sincere gratitude to all sponsors for their support in making this event a grand success.

Conclusion and Acknowledgments

The seminar successfully provided a stimulating environment for knowledge-sharing, networking, and collaboration. The enthusiastic participation and engaging discussions highlighted the significance of synthetic biology in shaping future scientific advancements. A heartfelt thank you to our esteemed speakers, participants, and organizers for their invaluable contributions in making this event a resounding success.

We look forward to organizing more such engaging scientific discussions in the future and building a thriving community of researchers and professionals in the field of synthetic biology.

Glimpse of the One Day Seminar on Synthetic Biology